Abstract
This article presents a model for creating a strong, user-centered web presence by pairing usability testing and the design process. Four rounds of usability testing were conducted throughout the process of building a new academic library web site. Participants were asked to perform tasks using a talk-aloud protocol. Tasks were based on guiding principles of web usability that served as a framework for the new site. Results from this study show that testing throughout the design process is an effective way to build a web site that not only reflects user needs and preferences, but can be easily changed as new resources and technologies emerge.
Highlights
In 2008 the Hunter College Libraries launched a two-year website redesign process driven by iterative usability testing
The goals of the research were to (1) determine the effectiveness of the Hunter College Libraries website, (2) discover how iterative usability testing resulting in a complete redesign impacts how the students perceive the usability of a college library website, and (3) reveal student informationseeking habits
The result is a site that guides the user through their options and instills confidence in the website and its designers.[28]. We found this to be true in the way our users found the hours and catalog links on the prototype of our library website
Summary
In 2008 the Hunter College Libraries launched a two-year website redesign process driven by iterative usability testing. This paper will review the literature on iterative usability testing, user-centered design, and thinkaloud protocol and the implications moving forward. The model used, building the design based on the guiding principles and using the testing to uphold those principles, led to the development of a strong, user-centered site that can be changed or adapted to accommodate new resources and technologies. We believe this model is unique and can be replicated by other academic libraries undertaking a website redesign process
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