Creating a user-centered library homepage: a case study

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OCLC Systems & Services

ISSN: 1065-075X

Online from: 1985

Subject Area: Library and Information Studies

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Document Information:
Title:	Creating a user-centered library homepage: a case study
Author(s):	Junior Tidal, (New York City College of Technology, City University of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA)
Citation:	Junior Tidal, (2012) "Creating a user-centered library homepage: a case study", OCLC Systems & Services, Vol. 28 Iss: 2, pp.90 - 100
Keywords:	Homepage, Information management, Libraries, Usability, User experience, User studies, Web sites
Article type:	Case study
DOI:	10.1108/10650751211236631 (Permanent URL)
Publisher:	Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Abstract:	Purpose – This paper aims to describe the process, testing, and data analysis of redesigning a library's homepage to create a more user-centered experience. Design/methodology/approach – A survey and a usability test were conducted to collect data on users' interactions. The goals were to make design changes catered to users' needs, prior to migrating the site to a content management system. Findings – Recommendations are made to improve the usability of the Ursula C. Schwerin library homepage, as well as considerations for future testing. Originality/value – This case study will be useful for librarians and web programmers implementing usability tests for the first time. It will also be useful for those focusing on developing a more user-centered homepage.