Maintaining quality of library web sites using cluster and path analysis

Abstract

Library web services are changing and expanding rapidly. The increasing complexity and quantity of subject electronic information resources, novel ways of providing information and services, cross functionality and complexity of the online catalog and general web sites, and the increasing expectations of users have made web design decision making all the more difficult. These factors must be incorporated in an evolving design so that library users are assisted by the changes, not stymied. Furthermore, the skills of a library web site user cover a spectrum between beginner to expert while user needs run the gamut from highly comprehensive research to vague information requests based on expediency and convenience. A library web site must cater to all these audiences by gauging the effectiveness of the services.