Value of information and decision pathways: Concepts and case studies
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Abstract
Information used in decision making arises from the structuring of observations and data. The collection, dissemination, and use of information has monetary and non-monetary costs (e.g., competition for attention) and necessitates trade-offs. Understanding the benefits of having information (i.e., the value of information, VOI), including resulting societal outcomes, is useful to information producers/funders and decision makers. Using theory, use cases, and hypotheticals, we describe how information (e.g., geospatial information) is valued and incorporated in decisions and actions related to managing natural resources, environments, and the impacts of natural and anthropogenic hazards. We discuss the nature of information and how it relates to models (conceptual, mental, scientific), beliefs, knowledge, and economic analyses. VOI approaches and behavioral factors that potentially affect information use and value are summarized. Framing of information and VOI through data to decision pathways (DDPs) at first simplifies understanding, then illustrates the benefits of information, and the human and societal challenges encountered in valuing and using it. We present approaches to overcome these challenges. Our transdisciplinary analysis concludes with a summary of critical issues affecting DDPs and VOI, and suggestions for improving both economic analyses and the actionability and use of information.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Value of information and decision pathways: Concepts and case studies |
| Series title | Frontiers in Environmental Science (Environmental Economics and Management) |
| DOI | 10.3389/fenvs.2022.805214 |
| Volume | 10 |
| Year Published | 2022 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Frontiers |
| Contributing office(s) | Fort Collins Science Center, Science and Decisions Center |
| Description | 805214, 26 p. |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |