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Student user preferences for features of next‐generation OPACs: A case study of University of Sheffield international students

Winnie Tam (Department of Information Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK)
Andrew M. Cox (Department of Information Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK)
Andy Bussey (Library, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK)

Program: electronic library and information systems

ISSN: 0033-0337

Article publication date: 25 September 2009

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the features that international student users prefer for next generation OPACs.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 16 international students of the University of Sheffield were interviewed in July 2008 to explore their preferences among potential features in next generation OPACs. A semi‐structured interview schedule with images of mock‐up screens was used.

Findings

The results of the interviews were broadly consistent with previous studies. In general, students expect features in next generation OPACs should save their time, be easy to use and relevant to their search. This study found that recommender features and features that can provide better navigation of search results are desired by users. However, Web 2.0 features, such as RSS feeds and those features which involved user participation were among the least popular.

Practical implications

This paper produces findings of relevance to any academic library seeking to implement a next‐generation OPAC.

Originality/value

There have been no previous published research studies of users' preferences among possible features of next‐generation OPACs.

Keywords

Citation

Tam, W., Cox, A.M. and Bussey, A. (2009), "Student user preferences for features of next‐generation OPACs: A case study of University of Sheffield international students", Program: electronic library and information systems, Vol. 43 No. 4, pp. 349-374. https://doi.org/10.1108/00330330910998020

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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