Guiding choices: implementing a library website usability study. Issue 3 (14th August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Swanson, Troy A.; Hayes, Tish; Kolan, Jennifer; Hand, Kelly; Miller, Susan
• Is Part Of: Reference services review. Volume 45:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 359
• Page End: 367
• Publication Date: 2017-08-14
• Subjects: Electronic information resources -- User experience -- Community college libraries -- Underprepared students -- Website life cycle -- Website usability; Reference books -- Bibliography -- Periodicals; Reference services (Libraries) -- Periodicals; 025.52
• DOI: 10.1108/RSR-11-2016-0080
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0090-7324

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this study is go better understand website usability by community college students. The usability study team sought data that would help to guide in a website redesign. Design/methodology/approach: Librarians led students through sessions that followed the usability testing approach defined byNielsen (2012) which emphasizes the ease of use of the Web interface. This study compared the results from the existing library website and a prototype website. Findings: The study's findings emphasized the need for balance between the variety of services and content that the website provides. This is especially true given that so many community college students are underprepared for college-level courses. Research limitations/implications: The study was limited by available time and the clinical nature of the usability session. Practical implications: The study results underscore the significant challenge facing library website designers. The various online services exist in pockets that are only partially integrated and, therefore, require students to make decisions and predictive judgments as they navigate the site. Originality/value: Overall, this study emphasized the need for balance between the variety of services and content that the website provides.