Wondering What Information Career Specialty to Choose? Or Could You Use Some Help?

Thanks to the efforts of Crystal Sharp, Guest Editor, the October 2010 issue of the Bulletin of the American Society for Information Science and Technology  http://www.asist.org/Bulletin/Oct-10/Bulletin_OctNov10_Final.pdf features contributions from members of the Association of Independent Information Professionals (aiip.org).  In two sections entitled "Research:  Much more than Search and Retrieval" and "Services: Marketing, New Media, Writing, Consulting and Information Management", each contributor describes the value an IP's services brings to clients in a wide range of fields.  Here are succinct overviews of specialized information types and tools providing a fascinating glimpse into the vast range of activities the "information arena" contains. 

For those wondering what specialty to select in an information career, the collection of essays is a superb sampling.  For those wondering whether an IP might assist in their projects, it is one great place to start exploring.  (Note: Additional contributions will follow in February 2011.)  Help yourself:

Adding Value: The Business of Independent Information Professionals

Looking Back, Looking Forward

PART I - Research: Much More Than Search and Retrieval

The Unexpected Value of Research in Biomedical Business

Patents in the Realm of Independent Information Professionals

The IIP and the Small Business High Tech Client

Government Information: Adding Value as an Expert Guide

The Independent Information professional as Government Contractor

Competitive Intelligence: How Independent Information Professionals Contribute to Organizational Success

Business Research Beyond Borders

Today's Genealogist: Providing Value-Added History

PART II - Services: Marketing, New Media, Writing, Consulting and Information Management

Information Professionals and the Nonprofit Sectors

Enhance Your Marketing Productivity: Hire an IIP

Consulting: Helping Clients Plan, Adapt, Choose...and Much More

Social Media: Essential for Research, Marketing and Branding

From Reference Interview to Project Proposal: Defining Client Needs to Ensure Research Success

The Accidental Knowledge Manager: Another Role for Independent Information Professionals