An Exploration of a Website Design Process and Results of a Usability Study

Abstract

A transition of content management systems provided Kornhauser Health Sciences Library with an opportunity to redesign the library’s website to be more user-friendly, efficient, and visually appealing. A multistage approach was taken: (1) informal interviews of various stakeholders from the library, (2) a redesign using information gained from those stakeholders, and (3) a retrospective comparative usability study. This study was conducted with the goal to inform library staff whether the redesigned website improved accuracy and efficiency of information retrieval through the completion of timed tasks. In addition, user satisfaction was measured through guided interview questions.

Keywords:

• Usability
• website design

Notes on Contributors

Lauren E. Robinson, MSLS ([email protected]) is Emerging Technologies Librarian, University of Louisville, Kornhauser Health Sciences Library, 500 S. Preston, Louisville, KY 40292.

Jessica Petrey, MSLS ([email protected]) is Clinical Librarian, University of Louisville, Kornhauser Health Sciences Library, 500 S. Preston, Louisville, KY 40292.