Open source integrated library system and usability issues: A study of Koha interfaces

Abstract

This research examined the usability of Koha interface from user’s perspective. It used the Koha OPAC interface available at library.bracu.ac.bd. A series of usability experiments were carried out. A set of search tasks was obtained from a user survey and was used in this research. The first experiment was carried out using both novice and experienced users to see their performance and satisfaction with the interface. The results showed that there were significant differences in the time taken to complete the tasks, success score and the number of errors that they were made. There was no significant difference in term of number of search terms used. There was also no significant difference in satisfaction with the interface between the groups. The second experiment was conducted on novices’ learning and retention with the Koha interface using the same equipment, tasks and environment. The results of the experiment showed that novices could readily pick up interface functionality when a brief training was provided. The result of the comparison of novices’ initial performance, learning and retention sessions showed that there were significant differences in search performance in terms of time taken, number of error made and success score. The comparative analysis between novices’ learning and experienced searchers showed no significant difference between the sessions. The outcome of the usability tests provided helpful information about Koha interface and its usability.