Enhancing student information access through culturally-informed UX design: a case study of Sultan Qaboos University Library digital platforms

Purpose This study aims to explore the impact of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions on students’ engagement with the digital platforms at Sultan Qaboos University Library. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a quantitative research approach, using 578 graduate and undergraduate participants to investigate the relationships between cultural elements and user experience preferences within academic library digital interfaces. Findings The results highlight significant relationships between cultural dimensions and information-seeking behaviors, with indulgence identified as the most potent predictor of platform usage frequency. It also uncovers different usage patterns across academic levels, revealing that graduate students exhibit stronger expressions of all cultural dimensions compared to undergraduates. The correlation between power distance and uncertainty avoidance is particularly strong (r = 0.71), indicating that hierarchical values and a preference for clarity work together in this situation. Likewise, long-term orientation and indulgence show a strong relationship (r = 0.77), suggesting that future planning and adaptive interactions mutually benefit Omani students. Practical implications The findings present a user experience (UX) framework derived from cultural contexts for academic libraries that balances hierarchy and user agency, embraces collaboration, reduces uncertainty through clear navigation, meets both task and social needs, accommodates diverse time orientations and offers users control. The suggestions help increase the access and use of information for students through culturally sensitive digital library systems in Oman and similar areas. Originality/value This study fosters the theoretical research and practical development of culturally aware UX design in academic contexts.