Joyce Galletta DeStasio and Eric Jeitner
The purpose of this paper is to share the process, findings and conclusions from one library’s iterative usability study of its website design to inform other libraries as they…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to share the process, findings and conclusions from one library’s iterative usability study of its website design to inform other libraries as they perform their own assessments.
Design/methodology/approach
A task-completion usability study was conducted with eight undergraduate students across two iterations: the first gauged the usability of a redesigned library website and the second gauged the effectiveness of the first iteration’s findings.
Findings
We found that users performed better when the site provided multiple access points to the same information, displayed a prominent chat feature, limited the amount of text on a given page and avoided library jargon. Not only was the second round of testing important for confirming that first-round recommendations were effective but also it proved useful in catching a problem with the site that was unintentionally created during the time between tests.
Research limitations/implications
No demographic data were collected during the study, thus hindering our ability to analyze our users through these data points.
Originality/value
This study demonstrates the value of iterative usability testing, especially when untested changes made between site versions may produce usability issues.
Details
Keywords
Christy Goodnight and Eric Jeitner
This chapter looks at the principal use of a library as a place of quiet contemplation in contrast to the recent push for interactive environments and makerspaces, with particular…
Abstract
Purpose
This chapter looks at the principal use of a library as a place of quiet contemplation in contrast to the recent push for interactive environments and makerspaces, with particular focus on the centrality of library users’ needs in designing services and spaces.
Methodology/approach
This chapter draws on the results of primary survey data, and considers user needs as more important to successful educational support rather than contemporary trends that might lean toward other directions.
Findings
It is found that students at Stockton University desire more space for quiet study and, when library quiet spaces are expanded, they have flocked to these zones. The students are sending out their own SOS – they are “Seeking Out Silence” within the walls of the library.
Originality/value
This chapter provides a look at user-centered design as applied to the fundamental needs of library patrons. It reminds library professionals to stay focused on user needs regardless of entrenched tradition. It also provides insight into student behaviors and the nature of library as place.