The RADAR Framework can help you remember what kinds of questions you should be asking about an information source as you evaluate it for quality and usefulness in your research.
Relevance
How is the information you have found relevant to your assignment?
Does the information answer our research question?
Authority
Who is the author/ publisher/ source?
What are the author's credentials?
Is the author affiliated to an academic institution or reputable organization?
Date
When was the information published?
Has the information be revised or updated?
Is the publication date important to you?
Does your research requite timely sources?
Accuracy
Where does the information come from?
Is the information supported by evidence or peer reviews?
Is the information presented in a professional or academic manner? Free of spelling or grammatical errors?
Does it have citations and references?
Rationale
Why did the author publish the information?
What is the purpose of the information? to inform? teach? sell? entertain? persuade?
Based in Washington, D.C., the AIA has been the leading professional membership association for licensed architects, emerging professionals, and allied partners since 1857.
The Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) promotes the study, interpretation, and conservation of architecture, design, landscapes, and urbanism worldwide for the benefit of all.
Since 1992 building professionals have gathered around BuildingGreen’s rich array of media and information resources, including the award-winning Environmental Building News, BuildingGreen Suite of online tools, GreenSpec directory of products, and LEEDuser web tool, so they can work smarter.