Website redesign and testing with a usability consultant: lessons learned

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this case study is to present one library's experiences consulting with a usability expert during the design and implementation phases of a new academic library website and the lessons learned during the process.Design/methodology/approachThe library staff worked with the consultant so that he understood the work of the librarians and goals for the website. Together the consultant and library staff developed a series of tests to measure the usability of the site. The librarians implemented the tests, gradually taking the leadership role in the process.FindingsThe study confirms the value of usability testing as a tool to bring to light some of the ambiguities and complexities of a library website for users. The study demonstrates that librarians have developed an expertise and knowledge base that transfers well to the evaluation of websites and online resources. The experience of the University of Michigan AAE Library reveals that usability testing should be an ongoing exercise so that the website remains relevant to the users.Practical implicationsThis study advises librarians of the value of testing and that, on the one hand, test results confirm what one imagines about the users' experiences, but on the other hand they reveal the unexpected strategies and understandings of the users.Originality/valueThis case study provides a useful example of the value of working with a usability expert, a discussion of what to expect during the process, and advice about the role of the librarian in such an endeavor.

Usability Analysis of Agricultural Portal eAGRI in Terms of the General Public

“…Several studies have documented that a lack of usability of user interface has an impact on actions of the users (e.g. Cervone, 2005;Tolliver et al, 2005;Clemmensen, 2009). It is also necessary to assess if the application meets the requirements on user interface, especially in the area of applicability and User Experience of the respective platform.…”

Factors Affecting University Library Website Design

“…20 The most widely used method is consultation with experts. 21 Experts uncover technical flaws and any obvious usability problems with a design, 22 facilitate focus groups, 23 and create new information architecture. 24 Because they are experts, however, their ways of thinking may not be the same as users.'…”

An exploration into the practices of library Web usability in ARL academic libraries

“…One effective pre‐design technique is card sorting (Battleson, et al, 2001; Hennig, 2002; McGillis & Toms, 2001; Ward, 2006), which allows the user to categorize task steps for locating information. Paper prototyping provides an inexpensive simulation of an intended design within which subjects can test its information architecture (e.g., Bobay, Dallis, Pershing, & Popp, 2002; Collins & Aguinaga, 2002; Grady, 2000; King & Jannik, 2005; Tolliver, Carter, & Chapman, 2005; Ward, 2006). Some researchers utilize screen‐capturing software, such as Camtasia, to facilitate more in‐depth analysis (Ascher, Lougee‐Heimer, & Cunningham, 2007; Clark, 2004; Cobus et al, 2005; Goodwin, 2005; Thompson, 2003).…”

“…Some institutions employ graduate or other student assistants (Kuregger, Ray, & Knight, 2004; Ward, 2006); others collaborate with academic departments (Clark, 2004; Manzari & Trinidad‐Christensen, 2006; Ward & Hiller, 2005) or Human‐Computer Interaction Institutes (George, 2005) to oversee testing. Off‐campus consultants are also utilized to assist with the testing process or to facilitate focus groups (Tolliver et al, 2005; VandeCreek, 2005). Some libraries have commissioned expert consultants in creating new information architecture (Bobay et al, 2002; King & Jannik, 2005).…”