Users and ease of use: online catalogues' raison d'etre

Abstract

OPAC users are first described according to their habits and needs. The usual distinction between ‘naive’ and ‘sophisticated’ users is criticised. The existing OPAC designs are summarised in terms of their information retrieval facilities as well as their dialogue modes. The concept of ease of use is then examined in more detail and several levels are introduced: usability, ease of interaction, communicational ease and ease of searching. Some connections are made between ease of use and existing OPACs. Areas for future research work are suggested.

Citation

Nadia Mitev, N. (1986), "Users and ease of use: online catalogues' raison d'etre", Program: electronic library and information systems, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 111-119. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb046930