Showing papers in "Oclc Systems & Services in 2005"

Usability testing and design of a library website: an iterative approach

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a case study of the usability studies used by the Carnegie Mellon University Libraries during the redesign of their website.Design/methodology/approach – The Libraries used a web‐based survey to determine needs, proceeding to the prototype design, and completing the process with the final design and user testing. Think‐aloud protocols, used to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the final design, asked participants to verbalize their thoughts as they completed a series of tasks.Findings – The results of the protocols indicated several key weaknesses with respect to navigation, screen design and labeling, leading to more revisions and the final release. Testing indicated that color and graphics attract attention; font, labels, and placement increase visibility; chunking and leading with keywords increase readability; and consistency increases usability.Research limitations/implications – This is a case study and therefore not necessarily representativ...

The Wiki and the digital library

Abstract: Purpose – To look at how collaborative tools, such as Wikis, can be utilized in a digital library environment.Design/methodology/approach – A discussion of Wikis and postulation as to how such a tool might be used to facilitate research and collaboration in a digital library setting.Findings – Three potential applications of a digital library Wiki are discussed – the Wiki as a knowledge base tool, the Wiki as a content management tool, and the Wiki as a tool to empower interactive finding aids.Originality/value – Provides ideas for digital library developers and implementers, especially those looking for increasing collaboration and interactivity in digital libraries.

Usability of digital libraries: A study based on the areas of information science and human‐computer‐interaction

Abstract: Purpose – The conception, planning and implementation of digital libraries, in any area of knowledge, demand innumerable studies in order to verify and guarantee their adequacy to the users' necessities. Such studies find methodological, conceptual and theoretical support in some areas of knowledge, such as human‐computer‐interaction (HCI) (usability studies, in particular) and information science (IS) (especially studies about users' necessities and behavior in information search and use). This research, therefore, intends to integrate concepts and techniques from these two areas, that is, to analyze the usability of the InfoHab digital library, having as theoretical base the constructivist model of user study proposed by Carol Kuhlthau and the criteria of usability established by Jacob Nielsen.Design/methodology/approach – In order to do so, a qualitative study with six users with different levels of academic formation and experience in the use of recovery systems was developed. Data were collected thro...

Assessing the durability of formats in a digital preservation environment: The INFORM methodology

Abstract: Purpose – To describe INFORM, a new methodology for investigating and measuring the risk factors of digital formats and providing guidelines for preservation action plans.Design/methodology/approach – Construction of a model which aims to discover specific threats to preservation and measure their possible impact on preservation decisions. The methodology defines: risk categories of digital formats and their dependencies; risk factors for each category; scales to measure probability of occurrence and impact; and methods to collect, report and interpret the results.Findings – While individuals are biased and subjective in their aversion to risk, collating the assessments of many individuals should generate group‐consensus or group‐averaged objective results. Hence, preservation plans can be based on objective analysis of risk trends instead of individuals’ opinions developed in the relative isolation of their institutions. The methodology takes into consideration individuals’ aversion to risk, therefore re...

Usability analysis of Northern Illinois University Libraries' website: a case study

Abstract: Purpose – To describe the process and present the findings of a usability assessment of the Northern Illinois University Libraries' website.Design/methodology/approach – After significant planning, Northern Illinois University Libraries conducted a usability analysis using a trilateral approach: usability testing, focus group sessions, and survey questionnaires.Findings – Quantitative and qualitative data are presented and discussed. Quantitative data does not adequately reflect what the test moderators and recorders observed during test sessions. Thus, qualitative data prove to be more valuable. Results were used to redesign the library's website.Research limitations/implications – Questionnaire return rate was extremely low, and therefore these results could not be compared with the results of the other two data collection methods.Practical implications – The detailed methodology section can provide guidance for other libraries considering performing usability test analyses.Originality/value – This stud...

Redesigning for usability: Information architecture and usability testing for Georgia Tech Library's website

Abstract: Purpose – To describe the efforts by the Georgia Institute of Technology Library to keep its website relevant and current by incorporating user testing, both outsourced and in‐house.Design/methodology/approach – A chronological history of the Library's web presence with a discussion of how user testing was conducted with a vendor and how future testing will be conducted by the Library itself.Findings – Illustrates issues the Georgia Institute of Technology Library has faced in regards to its website in the past, and future plans to test the site to maintain currency and strive to meet the users' needs.Originality/value – This paper offers practical information for undertaking usability testing of a library website.

Usability testing for web redesign: a UCLA case study

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the processes the UCLA Library Website Redesign Team used to develop a new library website responsive to the needs of the broad population of UCLA Library users.Design/methodology/approach – Using a combination of structured analyses of the previous library website, user surveys, a card sort protocol and a think‐aloud protocol, the Website Redesign Team procured sufficient information to meet its redesign goals: established clear site organization and navigation, utilized user‐centered nomenclature, ensured easy access from the library homepage to relevant information, developed a unified institutional visual identity throughout the site, and enabled a content management system.Findings – Standard usability methods such as surveys and the card sort and think‐aloud protocols are essential tools for evaluating and redesigning complex multi‐layered websites. Since the redesign process is not finite, these tools contribute to keeping a website current and res...

Sustainable design for multiple audiences: The usability study and iterative redesign of the Documenting the American South digital library

Abstract: Purpose – To demonstrate the value in conducting a usability study and following an iterative design process to create a more user‐centered and sustainable digital library.Design/methodology/approach – After identifying three key user groups, a series of usability tests and focus groups were conducted to assess how users interact with the site's interface. An iterative design process followed involving the development and testing of prototypes by representative users and stakeholders.Findings – Users' interaction with a digital library is task‐oriented and context dependent. Serving the needs of multiple audiences is an iterative process and requires an ongoing dialog with users.Research limitations/implications – Like most usability studies, the results are not generalizable.Practical implications – It offers an example of how an informal usability study and iterative design process can be conducted to create a more user‐centered digital library.Originality/value – This paper provides new insights into t...

Library homepage design at medium‐sized universities: A comparison to commercial homepages via Nielsen and Tahir

Abstract: Purpose – Website design guidelines which have proven effective throughout the commercial sector could be adapted for library homepage design. Acceptance of industry standards for homepage usability, specifically Nielsen and Tahir's criteria, would give library users recognizable features and increase their confidence and comfort levels when using library websites. The paper aims to present a comparison of library homepages with these criteria to provide an assessment of how libraries fare in comparison with the commercial sector.Design/methodology/approach – Little research has been undertaken to evaluate the appeal and efficacy of homepages of libraries associated with medium‐sized universities, which have different audiences than do larger universities. The dataset of 80 academic libraries associated with medium‐sized universities (8,000‐13,000 students) was compiled with data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Peterson's College Bound. Data on 14 variables derived from Nielsen and T...

Using eclectic digital resources to enhance instructional methods for adult learners

Abstract: Purpose – To demonstrate that adult learning can be improved through the use of eclectic digital resources to enhance instructional methods rather than through learning skills in isolation.Design/methodology/approach – During the past two decades, a significant research has focused on adults as learners. Many adults take classes for skills improvement, job advancement, and personal understanding. The demand for training programs to help workers keep current and competitive is growing. It is likely that more adults from all walks of life will be continuing their education in a variety of settings. For example, librarians do instruction for their communities in the areas of internet searching, electronic database use, and personal computing skills. Many of their students are adults, including other library staff members, community members, and non‐traditional students.Findings – A learning program that includes digital resources helps provide the opportunity for instructors to help their students make conne...

The flight plan of a digital initiatives project, part 2: Usability testing in the context of user‐centered design

Abstract: Purpose – To provide the results of research to evaluate the usability of a University of Colorado at Boulder Libraries digital initiatives project that provides online access to historical Aerial Photographs of ColoradoDesign/methodology/approach – This paper describes usability testing conducted as a part of a user‐centered redesign The three stages of the evaluation – a requirements analysis, a heuristic evaluation, and user testing – are explained and the findings are discussedFindings – The usability testing revealed the needs of the project's target user group and identified issues with the interface that will be addressed in its redesign It has also contributed to the larger understanding of how researchers use digital Aerial Photographs and their preferred methods of access and desired functionalitiesPractical implications – Results from the study will be used to guide the redesign of the Aerial Photographs of Colorado digital library and can be generalized to add to a broader understanding o

Website redesign and testing with a usability consultant: lessons learned

Abstract: Purpose – The 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/approach – The 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.Findings – The 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 ...

Choices and challenges: Cross‐cutting themes in archives and museums

Abstract: Purpose – To report on the October 2004 Choices and Challenges Conference and cross‐cutting themes in libraries, archives and museums.Design/methodology/approach – This is a conference report and viewpoint article.Findings – The Choices and Challenges Conference sponsored biennially at the Henry Ford brings together professionals from archives and museums including archivists, curators, and conservators. As such, it is one of the few conferences that enable an interdisciplinary dialog between the different professionals involved with the administration of cultural resources. The October 2004 conference featured talks on legal issues, education, and preservation. However, it is the cross‐cutting theses of visibility, advocacy, convergence and collaboration, and a focus on the researcher or visitor that made the conference compelling and thought‐provoking.Practical implications – Libraries, archives and museums can benefit from learning about one another's approaches to the common challenges facing cultural...

Too quick? Log analysis of Quick Links from an academic library website

Abstract: Purpose – To study the use of “Quick Links”, a common navigational element, in the context of an academic library website.Design/methodology/approach – Transaction log files and web server logs are analyzed over a four‐year period to detect patterns in Quick Link usage.Findings – Provides information about what Quick Links have been used over time, as well as the relationship of Quick Link usage to the rest of the library website. Finds generally that Quick Link usage is prevalent, tilted toward a few of the choices, and is drawn largely from the library homepage as referral source.Research limitations/implications – Log analysis does not include IP referral data, which limits the ability to determine different patterns of use by specific locations including services desks, off‐campus, and in‐house library usage.Practical implications – This paper is useful for website usability in terms of design decisions and log analysis.Originality/value – This paper targets a specific website usability issue over time.

Hidden collections in archives and libraries

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to synthesize different research projects and approaches to managing the “hidden collections” problem.Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes current research and practices.Findings – Hidden collections are a problem for both libraries and archives. “Hidden collections” are materials that cannot be found in the online catalog or may be found there only under a collective title or un‐ or under‐processed primary sources. These materials transcend all formats of library and archival materials (print, microform, video, etc.) and can be found throughout the library in a variety of collections from government documents to area studies to music to the reference department. It is in the area of archival and special collections, however, that this problem has received the most attention and where the greatest challenges and opportunities for exposing these collections exist.Practical implications – Many archives have backlogs and “hidden collections”. This article d...

Digital image library development in academic environment: designing and testing usability

Abstract: Purpose – By reporting the experience gained in the development of a digital image library in the academic environment, this paper aims at providing perspective developers with insights on the main usability issues raised by this type of project.Design/methodology/approach – The paper addresses three common needs in academia with respect to image collections: preservation, access, and reuse. In the framework of the specific project experience, it discusses how usability issues have been tackled at design time, highlights the usability problems revealed by tests on the first implemented prototype, and advances proposals on how these problems may be addressed.Findings – Team formation and high turn‐over impact usability design; collection management functionalities effect final product usability; usability and resource reuse levels are severely reduced if the services are limited to those of classic digital libraries.Research limitations/implications – All usability issues are discussed with respect to the ...

Content matters: analysis of a website redesign

Abstract: Purpose – To examine the redesign of an academic archive and manuscript repository's fourth‐generation website.Design/methodology/approach – A review of the process used by a task force to revamp a website, including determining the goals of the site, its main features, audiences, vendor and software selection, relationship to the parent institution's design guidelines, and user testing results.Findings – Only with the cooperative effort of staff, interested outside parties, and users will web redesigns be worthwhile efforts that translate into sites with depth and meaning.Originality/value – Article provides background information and analysis of a series of website redesigns.

Cataloging our information architecture

Abstract: Purpose – To explore the potential impact of Shiyali Ramamrita Ranganathan's classification theories on the accessibility and exposure of digital repository content.Design/methodology/approach – Conceptual analysis of: faceted classification schemes; the symantic web; object‐oriented analysis, design and programming; and digital repository content.Findings – With the rapid proliferation of digital repositories and digital archives comes the need for appropriate and flexible classification schemes that can be implemented in conjunction with current technology such as object‐oriented programming techniques. Shivali Ranganathan was a forerunner in the area of classification systems, and developed a classification system, which is very suited to the need at hand: faceted classification. This column explores the relationship between Ranganathan's theories and their potential use in the contemporary digital library context (specifically digital repositories).Practical implications – Ranganathan's methodology ma...

Making decisions: Methods for digital library project teams

Abstract: Purpose – To outline methods for group process within a digital library team. Design/methodology/approach – Literature‐ and practice‐based analysis of seven key methods for making decisions within a group. Findings – One of the many issues that digital library project managers face is getting people to make decisions. Decision making can usually be accomplished in an effective manner if the project manager uses a sound methodology for having the group come to a decision. Using a consistent approach to decision making allows the team to deal with the complexity of issues by providing a structure for organizing issues. Research limitations/implications – The individual context of an organization will require adapting some of the methods to local practice. Practical implications – Provides a methodology for decision making within a group/team‐based context. Originality/value – Provides caveats and guidelines for team leaders/project managers who must facilitate decision‐making processes.

Cognitive task analysis: A cognitive approach to evaluate evidence‐based nursing websites

Abstract: Purpose – To introduce a cognitive approach – cognitive task analysis (CTA) – for the usability evaluation of evidence‐based nursing (EBN) websites.Design/methodology/approach – With the justification of the need for new evaluation methodologies for the usability of EBN websites and the provision of the theoretical framework and implications of CTA, the author proposes detailed steps for the usability evaluation of EBN websites.Findings – CTA is a new approach that can be used for the evaluation of the usability of EBN websites. It has the advantages that conventional evaluation methods lack in characterizing the aspects of websites useful to nurses in carrying out evidence‐based practices.Originality/value – This paper, with the introduction of a new cognitive approach, helps ensure the effective evaluation of the EBN websites, which can then be improved to adequately meet the requirements and information processing needs of the nurses practising evidence‐based nursing.

Designing effective tasks for digital library user tests: lessons learned

Abstract: Purpose – To describe lessons learned about the process of designing effective tasks for digital library user tests.Design/methodology/approach – Illustrated examples are drawn from eight separate user tests run over the course of three years during development of Variations2, the Indiana University digital music library.Findings – Four major considerations for effective task design are described and illustrated. Areas explored include iterative task development, design of authentic activities, recruitment of authentic users and how to deal with unrealistic testing scenarios.Practical implications – Lessons learned in task design are matched with examples that illustrate how to balance real‐world constraints with ideal testing conditions to gather useful results.Originality/value – User tests that consider a balance between real‐world constraints and ideal conditions are more apt to provide useful design ideas for complex systems such as digital libraries. Practitioners may use these guidelines to develop...

Remarks on metadata management

Abstract: Purpose – As digital resources proliferate, libraries plan to grant easy access to a distributed set of resources from one single entry point inside and outside the OPAC The quest to manage the metadata about these resources becomes more important than ever Thus, the term, “metadata management” is being used by various communities creating spatial data, enterprise applications, data warehouses, legacy environments, and bibliographic data Unfortunately, metadata management is sparsely mentioned in the traditional information technology journals, grey literature, information technology company web sites, and the library science literature The purpose of this viewpoint is to examine the limited use of the term metadata management in the library community and to introduce a new definition of itDesign/methodology/approach – This viewpoint examines the limited use of the term metadata management in the library community and introduces a new definition of itFindings – Although the proposed definition captu

IUPUI image collection: a usability survey

Abstract: Purpose – To measure functionality, content, and awareness of an online digital image collection by observing participants in a controlled search for a specific image and evaluating their responses to questions with the objective of improving the siteDesign/methodology/approach – Participants were recruited from among faculty, staff, and students based on interests stated in online profiles or indicated by type of professional work or academic major Participants were timed while searching for a target photo and interviewed afterward about their search experience and their use of digital imagesFindings – Most potential users are not aware of the Indiana University‐Purdue University Indianapolis image collection and have some difficulty locating it, but when introduced to it find the site attractive and navigable and its content interesting and useful for research, instruction, publication, or class workResearch limitations/implications – There were only 5,100 images uploaded to the collection at the ti

The future of the Anglo‐American cataloguing rules

Abstract: Purpose – Discusses the goals of RDA: resource description and access.Design/methodology/approach – Describes some potential uses of the new code.Findings – Contends that RDA will be a powerful tool adopted by a large array of information providers.Originality/value – Provokes thought on an internationally‐important topic.

Practical quality control procedures for digital imaging projects

Abstract: Purpose – Formal quality review processes are a necessary part of any digital imaging workflow. This article illustrates a set of quality review processes implemented in the Indiana University Digital Library Program's Digital Media and Image Center.Design/methodology/approach – A methodology for automatic batch review of large numbers of images is presented, along with rationale and procedures for supplemental visual review. The initial stages of an effort to further automate and centralize image quality control at Indiana University are described.Findings – Automation of checks for objective image criteria, together with formal visual review of a sample of digitized images, is an effective means of implementing a quality review process.Originality/value – The methodologies described can be used as a model for other institutions performing digital imaging projects of any size.

Usability training: An overlooked component in an on‐going program of web assessment and development

Abstract: Purpose – To provide a model for implementing an on‐going program of training in usability topics for staff throughout the organization. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing on best practices and thinking of industry leaders, a model for implementing an on‐going training program is developed based on learning theory, training practices, and the unique issues related to usability engineering. Findings – Provides a model for developing a localized training program for usability. Originality/value – This paper addresses an area of usability, training in usability, which has not been addressed directly. It fills a vacuum in the literature by offering a practical model for beginning an on‐going program of usability training for staff.

The text‐encoding initiative: Part 1

Abstract: Purpose – To present a concise introduction to and history of the Text Encoding Initiative (TEI).Design/methodology/approach – Presents the TEI from a literature‐based, chronological perspective.Findings – The de facto standard for electronic text encoding in the humanities, the Text Encoding Initiative (TEI), an international and interdisciplinary standard for the electronic representation of documents in the humanities, has influenced the development of the Extensible Markup Language (XML) family of standards, and has become an indispensable tool for building digital libraries.Practical implications – Reinforces the primacy of TEI in the creation of interchangeable electronic texts, particularly in humanities disciplines.Originality/value – The first part of a two‐part column, explains how the TEI came into being, how it has influenced the evolution of world wide web standards, and why it has become an integral tool for digital library development.

The flight plan of a digital initiatives project: Providing remote access to aerial photographs of Colorado

Abstract: Purpose – To present a case study of a digital initiative for cartographic materials in order to provide a reference for other institutions embarking on similar projects.Design/methodology/approach – Describes the technical and practical details of the processes involved in georeferencing and providing online access to scanned aerial photographs.Findings – In the short time that the site has been live, the Map Library has already seen a marked increase in reference queries from both local and national users.Practical implications – From a practical standpoint, the project would not have been a success without collaboration between map, metadata, and systems librarians.Originality/value – To date, little has been published about digital initiatives projects providing online access to historical aerial photographs, a distinct and complex subset of cartographic materials. It is hoped that this case study will allow other institutions to learn from the approach and experience of the University of Colorado at ...

Electronic Resources Management : An Update

Abstract: Purpose – Aims to review the Digital Library Federation's (DLF) Electronic Resource Management Initiative (ERMI) guidelines and related commercial e‐resource management system developmentDesign/methodology/approach – Documents commercial e‐resource development by reviewing materials made public by leading library system vendorsFindings – Provides information about commercial and library‐developed systems and where additional information about each can be foundOriginality/value – Provides the status of industry initiatives to respond to the DLF ERMI functional specifications Suggests the need to improve workflows in conjunction with implementation of an e‐resources system to more effectively manage electronic resources

Influencing: a critical skill for managing digital library project teams

Abstract: Purpose – To develop an understanding of the role successful influencing plays in managing a digital library project team.Design/methodology/approach – Building on a prior article that discussed methodologies for coming to decisions within a group, the question remains of how to deal with situations where the team leader needs to influence people in order to accomplish the work of the project. This article outlines a methodology for practising effective influencing in a project team environment.Findings – Project managers can be more successful in influencing if they are attentive to the differing needs of team members and how they can best meet those differing needs. Different influencing styles interact with different personality types, so no one influencing style is universally appropriate and project managers need to be comfortable using several styles.Originality/value – All people are influenced, one way or another, by other people. This paper fills a gap in the digital project management literature...