Usability testing for web redesign: a UCLA case study

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to describe the processes the UCLA Library Website Redesign Team used to develop a new library website responsive to the needs of the broad population of UCLA Library users.Design methodology approach - Using a combination of structured analyses of the previous library website, user surveys, a card sort protocol and a think-aloud protocol, the Website Redesign Team procured sufficient information to meet its redesign goals: established clear site organization and navigation, utilized user-centered nomenclature, ensured easy access from the library homepage to relevant information, developed a unified institutional visual identity throughout the site, and enabled a content management system.Findings - Standard usability methods such as surveys and the card sort and think-aloud protocols are essential tools for evaluating and redesigning complex multi-layered websites. Since the redesign process is not finite, these tools contribute to keeping a website current and responsive to the needs of its users.Originality value - This case study provides an example that the Redesign Team hope will empower readers with tools and knowledge that they can use to perform similar tasks in their own environment.