Exploring information experience using social media during the 2011 Queensland Floods: a pilot study

Social media networks have emerged as a powerful tool in allowing collaboration and sharing of information during times of crisis (Axel Bruns, The Centre for Creative Industries Blog, comment posted January 19, 2011). The 2011 Queensland floods provided a unique opportunity to explore social media use during an emergency. This paper presents the findings of a pilot study that explored the information experiences of people using social media during the flooding of the Brisbane River. Analysis of data from four interviews supported the emergence of four categories of information experience. Examination of the categories revealed the way in which individuals experienced social media and the point of the flooding at which each category of experience occurred. Information regarding individuals’ use of social media has the potential to inform the development of social media platforms that can provide relevant and accessible information for the general public in the event of a natural disaster. Category 1: Monitoring information Category 2: Community and communication Category 3: Affirmation Category 4: Awareness