The purpose of this study was to identify differences and similarities in information management amongst a group of elected representative county councillors' in Älvsborgs län. Ten qualitative semi-structured, in-depth interviews have been carried out with the chairmen and vice chairmen of five public health and medical service committees. They were asked about their environment, assignment, work roles, positions within the county council, and their performance level. Individual needs and characteristics have been observed.

The study shows that there are more similarities than differences regarding the county councillors' management of information. They all have needs at three different levels; as private individuals, as individuals practising a profession, and as politicians. These levels both conflict and agree with each other. The study also shows that formalized/non-formalized oral sources play a dominant role in information management, which satisfy both cognitive and affective needs. Despite experience and practise of extracting the most relevant information from lengthy texts, the majority of them express a desire to have someone to help them select and systemize information. Increased computerization is also a requirement amongst the county councillors.