Assessing the IBSS database from a novice user perspective

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the methodology used in the 2004 user survey of the International Bibliography of the Social Sciences (IBSS).Design/methodology/approachAn online survey of users of the IBSS was combined with hands‐on sessions with novice users of the system at three UK universities. The online survey was a structured questionnaire aimed at experienced users, whilst the hands‐on sessions sought more qualitative data on the novice users' reported and observed use of the IBSS.FindingsIn addition to data specific to each part of the study, the findings from the online survey and hands‐on survey showed some convergence, strengthening the value of the overall results. In particular, the demand for full text links and the advantage of some user training were features of both parts of the study.Originality/valueThis was neither an in‐house survey nor an academic investigation, but a project undertaken for a client, and thus subject to the client's specifications and a strict time‐scale. The request for hands‐on sessions in addition to the usual online survey required design of an instrument which could elicit the maximum amount of data within the time available (about two hours at each institution).