Friday, April 10, 2009

Patron Usability Test 1

We had our first patron usability test on Monday, April 6. We had four subjects. We tested two separately and two together. Granted, they were people we know, so I'm not convinced I got as much constructive criticism as I deserved.

Based on patron feedback, we decided to make the following changes:

  • Make the website fixed width instead of fluid width

  • Rename "All Databases" to "Databases"

  • Put "Magazines/Newspapers" on home page under Research

  • Add "(Search Local Newspapers)" to the Pikes Peak Newsfinder database entry



All in all, this was a very benefical study. However, our next test will involve new questions AND patrons we don't know.

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Growing Venture Solutions, and more!

My colleagues and I met with Growing Venture Solutions yesterday. Steve and Greg helped us optimize our server, double checked our set-up, and gave suggestions on how to handle some of the more complicated tasks are are trying to accomplish. I highly recommend them as consultants for anyone attempting to launch a Drupal website.

Meanwhile, the Usability Hot Team and I are getting ready for our first patron usability test on Monday, April 6. I'll fill you in on all the gory details when it's done.