Collaborative query reformulation in tourism information search

Abstract

Purpose Collaborative information search (CIS) is a growing and significant research area. Query formulation and reformulation is an important search strategy in information search. However, limited research has investigated query behavior during CIS. The purpose of this paper is to characterize collaborative query reformulation (CQR) by exploring the sources of collaborative query (CQ) terms and the types and patterns of CQR in the context of tourism information search. Design/methodology/approach An empirical study was designed to investigate search query reformulation as tourists performed CIS on a devised interface. A total of 36 participants (in 18 pairs) took part in the study; data were documented in pre- and post-search questionnaires, search logs and chat logs. Findings The findings show that participants intermixed individual search and collaborative search during CIS. Participants constructed CQ terms mainly by selecting terms from individual search queries and discussion chat logs. Eight types of CQR were identified, with specialization (82 percent) accounting for the most used search tactics. At most times, participants were found to add terms to the previous query. Findings demonstrated 27 specific CQR patterns; in excess of two-third participants (69 percent) took only one move to reformulate CQ by adding terms, or replacing/using new words. Practical implications The results of this research can be used to inform the design of search systems supporting collaborative querying in CIS. Originality/value This study is highlighting an important research direction of CQ reformulation in collaborative search while previous studies of the topic are limited, comparing to the vast body of work on query reformulation in individual information search using regular search systems.

Understanding Query Combination Behavior in Exploratory Searches

“…Query reformulation has been widely studied to reduce the gap between queries and information needs [15,16]. By reformulating user queries into appropriate new forms, it enables users to retrieve more relevant information [17].…”

“…A number of recent studies have shown that log-based user behaviors provide rich context for performing query reformulation [26]. To better understand user reformulations, recently, more studies have focused on analyzing users' reformulating behaviors [3,15]. Therefore, search logs are widely used to analyze user reformulating behavior because they record information about the full interaction between users and search engines [27].…”

Triggers and strategies related to the collaborative information-seeking behaviour of researchers in ResearchGate

“…They believed that complex information needs are often based on vaguely structured questions; require composite results drawn from data sources that are numerous, incompatible, eclectic and often external; use heterogeneous data and procedures; there is an increased role of soft information and judgement; the sources and conditions of their use are not controlled by own information system; such needs cannot be exactly estimated beforehand and are hard to plan. Furthermore, Du et al (2019) studied query behaviour during CIS. They found that participants built collaborative query terms mainly by selecting terms from individual search queries and discussion chat logs.…”

Cloud infrastructure enhancing product competitive advantage of tourism SMEs on online consumption values of tourists

“…This research aimed to explore how tourism SMEs in the tourism supply chain use cloudenabled was increasing the online consumption value of tourists through e-marketplace systems (EMSs). Prior research has indicated that tourism has provided tourists with valuable travel-related information services tailored to their individual needs and locations online (Du et al, 2019;Nunez-Rios et al, 2022). From the TOE perspective, when tourists search for travel information with practical mobile application support (Shi and Tsai, 2020), their satisfaction with the brand and consumption will increase.…”

“…This research aimed to explore how tourism SMEs in the tourism supply chain use cloud-enabled was increasing the online consumption value of tourists through e-marketplace systems (EMSs). Prior research has indicated that tourism has provided tourists with valuable travel-related information services tailored to their individual needs and locations online (Du et al. , 2019; Nunez-Rios et al.…”