07 Jul 06 Usability Study – Background

At its March 8th meeting, the Web Editorial Board heard from Michelle Frisque and Stephanie Orphan, both of whom had overseen some usability testing for their websites (LITA and ACRL, respectively). WEB members were briefed on types of usability testing and the benefits usability testing provides in redesigning and maintaining the utility of websites. The group was also briefed on the concept and practices of user-centered design, which calls for continual testing and improvement of websites. The group agreed this is the approach ALA needs to take.

At their March 15th meeting, the group decided to proceed with commissioning a usability study of the ALA website. Rob Carlson is drafting the RFP that will be floated in April. The plan calls for the usability study to be done by August. It will lead to redesign recommendations that will be implemented as resources become available.