Can computer science solve organizational problems?: the case for organizational
Computerization and controversy (2nd ed.)
backus normal form vs. Backus Naur form
Communications of the ACM
A Mathematical Theory of Communication
A Mathematical Theory of Communication
The nature of theory in information systems
MIS Quarterly
Neolithic informatics: The nature of information
International Journal of Information Management: The Journal for Information Professionals
The 'language' of informatics: The nature of information systems
International Journal of Information Management: The Journal for Information Professionals
International Journal of Information Management: The Journal for Information Professionals
International Journal of Information Management: The Journal for Information Professionals
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In a previous paper we used the backdrop of the Inca Empire for consideration of an appropriate locus for the discipline of informatics. The term informatics is used as a convenient umbrella term to stand for the overlapping disciplinary areas of Information Systems, Information Management and Information Technology. In this paper we consider one element from this case in more detail: that of the quipu. This enigmatic group of artefacts, consisting of complex assemblages of knotted cord, has been the subject of much debate. In this paper we interpret the case of the quipu as a non-familiar example of a data structure. This interpretation allows us to propose a number of essential or universal characteristics of data. It also permits us to provide greater clarity to the distinction between data and information.