Application of extent analysis FAHP to determine the relative weights of evaluation indices for library website usability acceptance model

Abstract

This study presents a novel approach for assessing and prioritising relative weights of the factors in order to reveal the level of each factors' contribution to the usability index system in the context of library websites. The inputs of experts in the related field were used to probe weights of seven key dimensions and 20 measuring items of library website usability. These factors covering both dimensions and measuring items were identified and validated from the authors' previous study. The study employed fuzzy theories along with the extent analysis fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) method with the expectation of scrutinising the relative importance of the criteria of interest while avoiding uncertainty, ambiguity, loss of data, and difficulties in assessment cycle. In order to maintain uniformity in expert consensus, triangular fuzzy numbers were used instead of linguistic values. The research findings revealed that the satisfaction was the most important dimension, while accessibility was considered the least important. In addition, the top 7 of the 20 measurement items investigated accounted for 49.37% of importance. The results indicate that more attention is needed in ensuring those websites are comfortable and fulfilled with clear information required for the users, while less time and effort can be given to readability and compatible capability considerations.