Michigan State University Library Website Redesign Research Project

UX Design + Research

Context

As part of my XA 333 coursework, I collaborated with a team to conduct UX research for the redesign of the MSU Library Website.

Problem

The MSU Library Website faced several issues. Users frequently complained that it was cluttered and difficult to navigate, especially on mobile devices. A common negative comment was that there were "too many clicks" required to find information. Additionally, there were inconsistencies when accessing the website from different applications.

Process

Our team began by selecting research methods and determining how to reach our user base, which consisted of MSU students and faculty. We chose to use card sorting, interviews, surveys, and field studies. To access users, we visited the library and walked around campus. After a few weeks of research, we compiled our findings. Below are the results from each method we conducted.

Card Sorting

We conducted an open card sort with three different users. After debating whether to use a closed or open card sort, we opted for the open approach due to its flexibility and the insight it provided into how participants interpreted the various cards. This method helped us understand users' expectations for the MSU Library website, particularly regarding the desired flow and navigation. Below are the results of each card sort, along with the users' responses.

Card sort for participant 1

Card sort for participant 2

Card sort for participant 3

Card sorts designed

Card sort broken-down for new navigation

Interviews

Conducting interviews provided valuable insights into professional interview techniques, including the importance of introductions and consent forms. I learned the significance of being prepared with a list of well-thought-out questions, as these are crucial for gaining an in-depth understanding of users' values, perceptions, and experiences. It's also important to think on your feet during interviews, formulating new questions based on the information provided.

We conducted interviews with seven different students, focusing on issues related to the website's accessibility. After the interviews, we summarized and analyzed the key findings. Below are the results of each interview, along with my personas and consent form.

  • Interview responses 1-4

  • Interview responses 4-6

 

Interviewees

 

Survey

The team developed a 9-question survey to gather information on various aspects of the MSU Library website. I discovered that effective survey questions differ significantly from interview questions—they must be structured to elicit specific responses rather than open-ended discussions.

We distributed the survey to students who consented to participate by completing a consent form. A portion of the survey questions and responses collected from MSU users can be viewed in the spreadsheet below.

 

Sample survey

 
 

Survey results

 

Field Study

From conducting field studies, I learned the critical importance of observing users in their natural environments. This method revealed insights into how users interact with the product that they might not articulate verbally in interviews. It became clear where users encountered difficulties, as these pain points were visibly apparent during their interactions.

During our field study, we brainstormed and defined a set of tasks for users to perform. Through careful observation, we witnessed firsthand how users explored and navigated the MSU Library website, gaining valuable insights into their behaviors and interactions.

  • Field study consent form

  • Field study protocol

Collaboration

Our research team maintained frequent collaboration to meticulously plan each research method and allocate tasks among team members. At times, we encountered differences of opinion and engaged in extensive discussions to reach consensus on our approach to conducting research together. We collectively reviewed all results and achieved a unified understanding of our user research findings.

Outcome

After completing our research through card sorting, interviews, surveys, and field studies, our team provided crucial insights to the designer to guide the following design enhancements:

  1. Simplify Homepage: Remove lesser-used features to prioritize space for navigation items.

  2. Reduce Clutter: Eliminate quick links, hours, and events clutter and integrate certain features for a cleaner homepage.

  3. Streamline Content: Remove the Twitter feed and carousel from the bottom of the page.

  4. Enhance Accessibility: Implement a larger dropdown menu with a larger font size to improve usability.

  5. Organize Information: Consolidate "General Information" and "Resources" under "Using the Library."

  6. Expand Navigation: Add "Room Reservation" to the navigation menu for easier access.

  7. Adopt Minimalist Design: Embrace a minimalist design philosophy to enhance clarity and user experience.

Lessons Learned

Collaboration is KEY! Effective collaboration and continuous communication are pivotal to the success of any project. By maintaining open communication and fostering strong working relationships among team members, projects progress more smoothly and efficiently. Our team regularly convened to review findings and insights from each research method, ensuring alignment and enabling us to deliver high-quality results within project deadlines.

The sooner… The better. Planning time wisely is crucial, particularly when managing a team project with multiple schedules to coordinate. Avoid procrastination and aim for a swift start. This approach allows ample time to tackle any challenges that arise, ensuring timely delivery of a high-quality product.

Utilize multiple research methods whenever feasible. Utilize multiple research methods whenever feasible. Gathering extensive information from users is essential for gaining a thorough understanding of the problem, which forms the foundation of good design. Employing multiple research methods allows for a more comprehensive exploration of various aspects compared to relying on a single method. The greater the amount of data collected on users and their challenges, the deeper the insights gained, ultimately leading to a more informed and effective product design.