informella

Informella is a term used in information studies and sociology to describe informal pieces of information that circulate outside formal, codified channels. It includes rumors, anecdotes, tips, and tacit know-how that people exchange in everyday conversation, over instant messaging, or within casual workgroup discussions. Informella is characterized by its contextual grounding, immediacy, and low barrier to dissemination, as well as its variable reliability and lack of formal verification.

Origin and usage: The word is a neologism that has appeared in academic discussions of informal knowledge exchange, distinguishing informal content from formally published data, manuals, or official communications. It is studied in relation to rumor dynamics, tacit knowledge, and social networks, where information travels through informal ties rather than through structured processes.

Characteristics: Informella spreads quickly through social connections and is often tailored to local circumstances. It relies on trust, reputation, and social plausibility, which can both aid credibility and introduce bias. Its content is prone to modification as it moves between contexts, making origin tracing and verification challenging.

Implications and applications: In organizations and communities, informella can accelerate learning, adaptation, and problem solving by surfacing practical know-how not captured in formal documents. At the same time, it can propagate misinformation or outdated practices. Effective use involves critical evaluation, corroboration when possible, and cultivating a culture that acknowledges informal sources while maintaining standards for accuracy.

See also: informal knowledge, rumor, tacit knowledge.