Information professionals are in turmoil, directly impacted by their constantly and fast changing Information and Communications Technology (ICT) environment. Based on more than fifteen years of observation, and collaboration with information management departments of large French companies, this article aims to depict the challenges and issues of information professionals, assessing these using eight propositions that characterize current operating environments. Key success factors for information professionals as well as obstacles are presented and discussed. Finally, guidelines are suggested for the positioning of information professionals within the corporate information management system. The author recommends that the information management function is treated similarly to quality, that is to say a transversal function networked over the whole company and designed to constantly improve decision-making processes through pertinent and adequate management of information.
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