Evaluating EBSCOhost Mobile

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the evaluation described in this paper is to determine the usability of the services provided by the EBSCOhost Mobile application.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology employed was usability testing, comprising pre‐ and post‐usability test questionnaires and “think out‐loud” usability tests.

Findings

Recommendations are made concerning changes to the interface to ensure greater usability.

Research limitations/implications

In this study, the only mobile device used in the testing of EBSCOhost Mobile was the iPhone 3GS. None of the participants had used or owned a smartphone previously.

Originality/value

Libraries are increasingly turning to the Mobile Web to offer new services to their patrons. Smartphones are likely to become central to the future delivery of information services.

Citation

Hegarty, R. and Wusteman, J. (2011), "Evaluating EBSCOhost Mobile", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 29 No. 2, pp. 320-333. https://doi.org/10.1108/07378831111138198