The Role of Information Specialists in Scientific Publishing: A Case Study of Saudipedia

Abstract

This study examines the digital transformation in scientific publishing and the transition of reference works from traditional print formats to dynamic digital platforms. It aims to investigate the role of information specialists in scientific publishing within governmental digital encyclopedias, using Saudipedia as a case study. Utilizing a descriptive-analytical methodology, the study addresses how information specialists contribute to content credibility, organization, and sustainability. Key operational responsibilities include source verification, knowledge organization and taxonomy structuring, applying metadata and indexing standards, maintaining editorial neutrality and quality assurance, and optimizing content discoverability for search engines and AI tools. The findings indicate that relying on verified scientific and institutional sources significantly enhances public trust. Ultimately, the study highlights the evolution of information specialists from traditional information custodians to active contributors in digital knowledge production and governance. Keywords: Information Specialists, Scientific Publishing, Digital Encyclopedias, Knowledge Organization, Government Information, Saudipedia