about the Web Usability Task Force
task force charge
The Web Usability Task Force is charged with determining how well the website of the University Libraries meets the resource and service needs of our user population of faculty, staff, students and public users and also with implementing modifications to the website to improve user satisfaction.
Tasks:
Specific tasks include, but are not limited to:
- Implement usability tests geared toward the major campus constituents: faculty, staff, undergraduate students and graduate students. Such usability tests should take into account the visual design of the Libraries' website. The visual hierarchy should assist users in locating information and navigating the site, and should not deter users from their intended task.
- Design a system for continuous web use assessment and corresponding, ongoing changes to the University Libraries interface design.
- Determine the methods people use to gain access to the Libraries’ website (i.e., MyUB, UBlearns, bookmarks, course sites, etc.) and incorporate that information into website design. When appropriate, provide recommendations for marketing library resources and services based on that information.
- Analyze statistics related to the use of the Libraries’ website and apply them to site design and interface.
- Incorporate usability principles into website documentation.
- Create or revise user documentation and help screens.
- Anticipate and respond to changes in technology and user needs. This may include the interoperability and marketing of important recent digital gateways and services (i.e., MyUB, UBlearns, SFX, Serials Solutions, ALEPH) and the implementation of new technologies for delivering information (i.e., podcasts, interactive tutorials).
- Systematically recommend changes to the design and wording of the website that result from needs and usability assessments and the analysis of site statistics.
- Consult with other groups in the Libraries and on campus as needed to inform recommendations.
- Work with the Office of Web Development and Services and the Web Design Task Force to implement changes designed to enhance the quality of the University Libraries’ website. Guiding principles for changes should include increased organization and greater cohesiveness in interface design.
conducting business
Reporting:
- The Task Force consults with the Office of Web Development and Services, and reports to the Public Services Committee of the University Libraries. Reports should be periodic and include a description of progress toward goals as well as any recommendations for website changes.
Support:
- The Task Force communicates with the Public Services Committee as necessary to request budgetary or personnel support.
- The Web Manager will chair the Task Force and will coordinate the work of the Office of Web Development and Services in implementing Task Force recommendations.
Related Groups:
members
- View current membership roster here.
Content provider: Scott Hollander
Comments: lib-staffweb@buffalo.edu
Last update:
13 June, 2007