Don't Know Why I Would Need that Information...But Cool: Outcomes from a Website Usability Study

This presentation details our process and outcomes for those interested in conducting a library website usability study. Although this work was specific to a regional university library in Colorado, and our study was focused on student users, our process could be adapted and scaled for a variety of libraries and users. This project emphasizes that it is possible—and helpful—to focus on improving the usability of one aspect of an existing website, even when it is not feasible to redevelop the entire site. The presenters will share how to address the challenge of engaging different stakeholders, and that it is possible to advocate for evidence-based website changes that can have a positive impact on user experience. Learn of our lightbulb moments and how two colleagues without formal web design experience worked together to make user-centered changes. We will have worksheets and prompts; please bring your perspectives and questions!Learning Outcomes: Learn how to design and scale a usability study to refresh a library website. Understand the unexpected benefits and gain practical tips on conducting a library website usability project, from start to “finish.” Create strategies to engage with stakeholders and integrate varying opinions when revising a website based on the project results.