Information Quality
When looking for information on the Internet it is particularly important that you take any advice with caution. Many websites are not evidence based and do not use proper quality checks to ensure accuracy. Another reason to be cautious is because the information may not be correct for the country in which you live.
There is no single recognised way to check whether a website is correct or otherwise but here we provide you with a simple checklist and useful links that should help you find out more about quality standards when looking for information on the Internet.
Quality checklist:
Consistent:- Is the information consistent throughout the website?
Continuity:
- Is all the information presented?
- Does the information give the full picture of what it describes, with all the different options/views?
Current:
- When was the site last updated?
- Does it show out of date information?
Reliable:
- Was the information written by someone who is qualified/suitable to write on the topic?
- Are sources or supporting evidence quoted?
- Does the site have any quality certificates?
- Is it signed up to any standards?
- Is the information misleading or biased?
Clear:
- Is the information given in plain English?
- Is it easy to find the right information?
- Are the pages easy to use?
Relevant:
- Is the information correct in your country?
- Are the details suitable in your situation?
