One size fit all' Does this apply as far as characteristics are concerned or is it likely that some characteristics may be more important to one organisation and not so important to another. 14 Characteristics that make information useful, a qualitative measure. 1. Access Restricted - limit to authorised parties. 2. Accurate - accurate, correct, and free of error. 3. Available - available to users when needed. 4. Reputable - perceived as true and credible. 5. Complete - does not omit important aspects of events or activities. 6. Concise - clear, succinct, brief, but comprehensive. 7. Consistent - presented in the same format over time. 8. Current - up to the present data and time. 9. Objective - unbiased, unprejudiced, and impartial. 10. Relevant - reduces uncertainty and improves decision-making. 11. Timely - provided in time for decision-makers to make decisions. 12. Useable - easy to use for different tasks. 13. Understandable - easily comprehended and interpreted. 14. Verifiable - two independent people can produce the same information