How to Design Library Web Sites to Maximize Usability

Short Description
Great web design tips. http://www.great-web-design-tips.com. Bobst Library. (2004). Usability testing at Bobst Library at New York University. …

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Content
Author and Editor
CHRIS JASEK
Elsevier User Centered Design Group Lead
Produced by
Library Connect, in collaboration with the
Elsevier User Centered Design Group
pamphlet #5
How to Design
Library Web Sites to
Maximize Usability
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2004INTRODUCTORY COMMENTS
T A B L E O F
C O N T E N T S
CONSISTENCY
? Provide a Help link on every page……..page 4
? Use consistent design elements ……….page 4
ORIENTATION AND NAVIGATION
? Link to your library Web site directly
from your institute’s home page ……….page 5
? Use one navigation bar ……………………page 5
HYPERTEXT AND LINKING
? Treat links according to conventions ……page 6
PAGE LAYOUT
? Use page real estate wisely ………………page 6
AESTHETICS AND GRAPHICS
? Use few colors and minimal graphics……page 7
FLEXIBILITY AND EFFICIENCY OF USE
? Organize information in
multiple ways ………………………………….page 8
? Minimize the number of clicks
users must make …………………………….page 10
? Explain details to help users select
and access resources ……………………..page 11
MATCHING THE SYSTEM AND
USER ACTIVITIES
? Organize your site based on users’
tasks and their frequency ………………..page 12
? Make your website search clear ……….page 13
? Do not use librarian terminology ……..page 13
? Ensure good performance ………………page 13
ACCESSIBILITY
? Make your site accessible………………….page 13
USABILITY TESTING
? Test your site for usability ………………..page…