This exploratory investigation of the process of defining the information needs of computer users and the impact of that process on information retrieval focuses on communication problems. Six sites were visited that used computers to process data or to provide information, including the California Department of Transportation, the California Almond Growers Exchange, the University of California at Davis, the Systems Data Processing Corporation, and the California State Library. Interviews were conducted with managers, intermediaries, and users of services at each site and observations of the information seeking process were made. It was concluded that the process of defining information needs in bibliographic database settings is analogous to the process in data processing settings, for both involve problem identification, query negotiation, and probing. The method of charging for services, organizational/social barriers, and the shared knowledge of participants regarding each other's work were found to affect the information seeking process. Accompanying the text are 11 data tables, 14 figures, and a 39-item bibliography. A sample query negotiation session, the letter to participating organizations, interview schedules and interview forms, and a site selection list are appended. (Author/JL)