Why do some people search for their files much more than others? A preliminary study

Abstract

Purpose

Previous research has repeatedly shown that people only search for files in a small minority of cases when they do not remember the file's location. The current study aimed to examine whether there is a group of hyper-searchers who search significantly more than others. Based on previous neurocognitive studies, this study aims to hypothesize that if such a group exists, they will have superior verbal memory and reduced visuospatial memory.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 65 participants completed a questionnaire estimating their search percentages, as well as reporting demographic data. Verbal memory was measured using the Wechsler logical memory test, and visuospatial memory was assessed using an online card memory game.

Findings

Hyper-searchers were defined as participants with search percentage of over one standard deviation (SD) above the mean. The average search percentage of the seven participants who met this criterion was 51% (SD = 14%), over five times more than the other participants (M = 10%, SD = 9%). Similar results were obtained by re-analyzing data from four previous papers (N = 1,252). The results further confirmed the hypothesis that hyper-searchers have significantly better verbal memory than other participants, possibly making searching easier and more successful for them. Lastly, the search percentage was positively predicted by verbal memory scores and negatively predicted by visuospatial memory scores. Explanations and future research are discussed.

Originality/value

This preliminary study is the first to introduce the concept of hyper-searchers, demonstrate its existence and study its causes.

Citation

Bergman, O., Israeli, T. and Benn, Y. (2021), "Why do some people search for their files much more than others? A preliminary study", Aslib Journal of Information Management, Vol. 73 No. 3, pp. 406-418. https://doi.org/10.1108/AJIM-08-2020-0250