Usability study of a federated search product at Punjab University

Nosheen Fatima Warraich; Kanwal Ameen; Muzammil Tahira

doi:10.1108/07419050911010750

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ISSN: 0741-9058

Online from: 1999

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Usability study of a federated search product at Punjab University

Document Information:
Title:	Usability study of a federated search product at Punjab University
Author(s):	Nosheen Fatima Warraich, (Lecturer at the Department of Library and Information Science, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan. (mswarrich@yahoo.com)), Kanwal Ameen, (Professor based in the Department of Library and Information Science, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan.), Muzammil Tahira, (Librarian with the Government Degree College, Punjab University New Campus, Lahore, Pakistan.)
Citation:	Nosheen Fatima Warraich, Kanwal Ameen, Muzammil Tahira, (2009) "Usability study of a federated search product at Punjab University", Library Hi Tech News, Vol. 26 Iss: 9, pp.14 - 15
Keywords:	Academic libraries, Digital Libraries, Information searches, Pakistan, User studies
Article type:	Research paper
DOI:	10.1108/07419050911010750 (Permanent URL)
Publisher:	Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Abstract:	Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the usability of the Electronic Library Information Navigator (ELIN), the federated search product used by the University of the Punjab (PU) and other Higher Education Commission-recognized institutions in Pakistan for the effective use of expensive electronic resources. Design/methodology/approach – Two usability tests were conducted. Findings – Overall, participants performed the required tasks and found ELIN to be a useful tool for searching. They did, however, have some technical limitations and faced difficulties with the choice of search options and were frustrated by the display of results. Full text availability and relevancy of subject results were mentioned as major problems. The majority of users did not complete the questions requesting suggestions for improvement of the web site. Originality/value – This study provides a baseline for further user studies in higher education institutions. It is recommended that including audio might enhance search capabilities.