Research in user behavior on online catalogs is in its early stages, but preliminary findings suggest that users encounter many of the same problems identified in behavioral studies of other types of bibliographic retrieval systems. Much can be learned from comparing the results of user behavior studies on these two types of systems. Research on user problems with both the mechanical aspects and the conceptual aspects of system use is reviewed, with the conclusion that more similarity exists across types of systems in conceptual than in mechanical problems. Also discussed are potential sources of the problems, due either to individual characteristics or to system variables. A series of research questions is proposed and a number of potential interim solutions are suggested for alleviating some of the problems encountered by users of information systems.

/pdf/why-are-online-catalogs-hard-to-use-lessons-learned-from-3keui6a1ms.pdf

Why are Online Catalogs Hard to Use? Lessons Learned from Information=Retrieval Studies

The evaluation of the concept of a translating computer interface for simplifying operation of multiple, heterogeneous online bibliographic retrieval systems has been undertaken. An experimental retrieval system, named CONIT, was built and tested under controlled conditions with inexperienced end users. A detailed analysis of the experimental usages showed that users were able to master interface operation sufficiently well to find relevant document references. Success was attributed, in part, to a simple command language, adequate online instruction, and a simplified natural-language, keyword/stem approach to searching. It is concluded that operational interfaces of the type studied can provide for increased usability of existing systems in a cost effective manner, especially for inexperienced end users who cannot easily avail themselves of expert intermediary searchers. Furthermore, more advanced interfaces based on improved instruction and automated search strategy techniques could further enhance retrieval effectiveness for a wide class of users.

A translating computer interface for end-user operation of heterogeneous retrieval systems. II. Evaluations

Users of interactive bibliographic retrieval systems are hampered by the problems of system complexity and heterogeneity. To alleviate these problems-especially for computer-inexperienced end users-the concept of a translating computer intermediary has been investigated. The intermediary simplifies system operation by conversing with users in an easy-to-use, common language; user requests are translated into the language of the appropriate retrieval system, and after suitable network connections have been established, sent to that system. System responses are then forwarded to the user after conversion to a more uniform format. The design principles for such an intermediary system include a modularized command/argument language augmented by considerable on-line instruction emphasizing basic functions for neophyte users and including tutorial and automated aids to search-strategy formulation. An experimental intermediary system named CONrr (connector for networked information transfer) was constructed and tested with bona fide users. Results indicate that the proposed techniques have a high potential for improving retrieval system utility, especially for inexperienced users. Analysis of the experiments also suggests that the appropriateness of different assistance techniques is dependent on context-e.g., type of application and user.

User Assistance in Bibliographic Retrieval Networks through a Computer Intermediary

Investigations have been continued and concluded on the concept of a virtual-system mode of access to a network of heterogeneous interactive retrieval systems and databases. An experimental translating computer interface, named CONIT, that enables the virtual-system mode, was developed as a research test vehicle. The interface was designed to make the basic functions of three different bibliographic retrieval systems easy to use, even by inexperienced end users, by providing a simplified common-command language coupled with extensive online instruction. Analysis of controlled experiments with end users indicates the probable success of operational interfaces using the virtual-system principle and other techniques demonstrated in the experimental interface. The research has also suggested that certain techniques implementable on an interface could enhance retrieval effectiveness for a wide class of users by aiding users in the development of search strategies.

/pdf/experiments-and-analysis-on-a-computer-interface-to-an-2mgn1e97e4.pdf

Experiments and analysis on a computer interface to an information-retrieval network

Looking Back, But Not in Anger: My View of the History and Future of Chemical Information

Nine chemistry searches were statistically selected to be run on three commercial data-base vendor files: SDC, BRS, and LRS. Each vendor has the CACon file, but software used for access and the method of loading the files differ. Only LRS has CASIA, the controlled vocabulary portion of the CA machine-readable file. Performance was not markedly different for general-subject searches, but costs varied. When the chemical registry number was used in the CASIA file for specific chemical compound searches, more relevant citations were retrieved, but at increased cost and with lower precision.

Johanna C. Ross

Papers

Searching the Chemical Literature via Three On-Line Vendors: A Comparison.

Searching the chemical literature