The collection listed below is broad. Some focus on the format of presentation, and some on the content of the message. Some use graphics to deliver the message, some use text. Some present the message in listed points or in summary/abstract format, some in descriptive/verbose format. Some formats are temporal, short-term or long-term, others atemporal. Some formats are specificaly developed for online dissemination environments, others offline - still others are appropriate for both environments.

The collection is therefore a continuum, an information continuum, where the position of an information format changes as the defining scales of the continuum itself change. The scales could be - size of the target audience, volume of info to be disseminated etc. Selecting an appropriate information packging format depends on a number of factors: (a) the problem or issue being addressed, (b) the decision-making process, (c) the information user/stakeholder - type as well as number of users, (d) the level/scale at which the activities are taking place, (e) the intended effect of providing the information, and (f) the medium through which the information is delivered.

Study the list carefully. Try to associate the format with the information in hand - and see how the message changes its 'digestability' depending on the format used. And answer the following questions: what is the message that is being delivered? What appripriate medium can be used for the purpose? Who are the target audience (including the type of audience, number and scale at which they function)? When, where and how is the actual dissemination to take place? The answer to these and related questions will help in selecting the appropriate format!

The same body of data can be used for different dissemination purposes, by modifiying the information format used.

The list is in no way complete or exhaustive. The list was developed by scanning websites, library materials, newsletters and bulletins etc. Some may seem silly ('jokes'), or inappropriate ('spotlights' or talks'), or not quite an info format ('acronyms'), or simply the same ('snapshots' and 'photos'). But the objective behind this list is not to document or list all information formats, but to emphasize the need to think differently. Information dissemination is done not just through a 'book' or 'report' (yes, both are included in the list!) - but there are many, many other ways in which info can be presented, depending on the intended effect. Thus the same body of data or information can have totally different effects on its users, depending on the format used.

This approach is epitomised by the 'information pyramid'. Usually, only the top 'finished' information is visible or disseminated. Other interim formats, including the base - raw data - is simply not used and is lost except for the people actually generating the data. But these interim stages of information is equally important to create different types of useage and intended effects on the target audience.

Significance The significance of the collection of 169 information formats in this document lies in its core purpose: To highlight the diversity, adaptability, and strategic importance of information packaging for effective knowledge dissemination. Information as a Continuum, Not a Static Entity: The list treats information formats not as fixed categories but as points along a continuum that shift depending on contextual variables such as audience size and type, the medium of delivery (online or offline), the temporal relevance (short-term or long-term), and the nature of content (such as text-heavy or visual, abstract or concrete). This perspective encourages a dynamic, flexible approach to knowledge management, discouraging the default use of standard formats like reports or papers and promoting the idea that how information is packaged must be responsive to the situation. Encouragement of Format Innovation: By including formats that are unconventional or unexpected?such as jokes, namecards, cartoons, or prototypes?the document challenges users to think creatively about how knowledge can be communicated. It stresses that even informal or artistic media can be valid and effective ways to convey information, especially when the goal is to increase engagement, provoke thought, or change behavior, thereby expanding the toolkit available for knowledge dissemination beyond traditional academic or bureaucratic channels. Relevance Across Disciplines and Audiences: The wide variety of formats demonstrates their usefulness across multiple fields and user groups. From academic and technical outputs like white papers and datasets to more popular or communicative ones like posters, newsletters, and videos, the list shows that different formats serve different purposes?whether for instruction, advocacy, policymaking, or development communication. This cross-cutting relevance makes the list a valuable resource for professionals working in varied disciplines and with different types of stakeholders. A Tool for Strategic Communication: More than just a list, the collection functions as a strategic planning tool for effective communication. It encourages users to ask key questions such as what message needs to be delivered, who the target audience is, what the intended impact is, and what dissemination method would be most appropriate. By doing so, it facilitates a thoughtful selection of formats that align the form of communication with its purpose, audience, and expected outcomes. A Prompt to Use Underutilized Knowledge Forms: Most organizations default to text-heavy formats like reports and memos, but this list encourages a broader view by highlighting the importance of visual, oral, and interactive media such as maps, infographics, podcasts, and forums. These alternative formats can often be more effective in certain situations and with specific audiences, particularly when clarity, brevity, or engagement are essential, making a strong case for exploring and integrating underused formats in regular communication practice. Reflects the "Information Pyramid" Philosophy: The document reinforces the idea that useful knowledge exists at all levels of the information pyramid?from raw data at the base to refined, finalized products at the top. It encourages the reuse and repackaging of core content into multiple formats to meet the needs of different users. For example, a single dataset can be transformed into a chart, then a report, an FAQ, an infographic, and eventually a training module, thus maximizing its utility and adaptability across various stages of use and user expectations. Advocates for Accessibility and Inclusion: The wide range of formats also supports greater inclusivity in knowledge dissemination. By accounting for different literacy levels, learning styles, access to technology, and cultural contexts, the list encourages communicators to think about how best to reach diverse audiences. This inclusive approach ensures that knowledge products are not just produced but are actually useful, understandable, and impactful to those who need them most. A Meta-Level Reflection on Knowledge Work: Ultimately, this collection invites reflection on how knowledge is treated and valued. It challenges users to go beyond simply transferring information and instead consider the broader process of design and delivery. By presenting knowledge packaging as a purposeful, strategic activity, it promotes more mindful and effective communication practices that increase the reach, relevance, and impact of information among various audiences. The collection is a strategic, reflective, and practical framework for professionals, researchers, educators, and communicators to think creatively and critically about how they package, present, and propagate knowledge. It transforms the act of dissemination from a linear, one-size-fits-all task into a purpose-driven design process.