Number 5 • Edition 2 • 2007 Subscribe, View PDF Welcome Introductory Comments Matching the System and User Activities Organize your site based on users' tasks and their frequency Make your website search clear and offer it on your homepage Do not use librarian terminology Ensure good performance Flexibility and Efficiency of Use Organize information in multiple ways Organize information by type of material, subject and course Crosslink information when possible Minimize the number of clicks users must make Explain details to help users select and access resources Orientation and Navigation Link to your library website directly from your institution's homepage Use consistent navigation Page Layout Use page real estate wisely Hypertext and Linking Treat links according to conventions Consistency Provide a help link on every page Use consistent design elements Aesthetics and Graphics Use few colors and minimal graphics Accessibility Make your site accessible Usability Testing Test your site for usability Ask UCD Ask UCD References References Recommended Resources Recommended Resources Contact Information Author and Editor CHRIS JASEK Elsevier User Centered Design Group Manager Produced by Library Connect, in collaboration with the Elsevier User Centered Design Group Library Connect Editorial Office ELSEVIER 525 B Street, Suite 1900 San Diego, CA 92101, USA Phone: (+1) 619.699.6283 libraryconnect@elsevier.com

Use few colors and minimal graphics

Use only three or four matched colors in the design of your website to make it more aesthetically pleasing and prevent a circus-like appearance. Avoid or minimize use of animated or flashing or scrolling text, as many users find it annoying or think it is an advertisement. By using complementary colors and few graphics, a library website can enhance its appeal.

“We know our library website is essential for researchers and students as a main point-of-entry to access electronic journal resources and that the usability of the website is instrumental in helping users find information they need. That’s why we’re so delighted to see simple guidelines, offered by experts such as those with Elsevier.” — Monica Hammes and Hilda Kriel (2004), Academic Information Service, University of Pretoria, South Africa

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