Putting Student Input to Work: Using Low-Tech Methods to Gather Feedback on a New Technology

Abstract

Federated search engines provide a new way to access traditional library resources. This new technology certainly has benefits and limitations, so a user-centered approach to implementation is very valuable. Usability testing and focus groups are effective, low-tech communication methods for gathering user feedback on federated search engines. One institution will share details about its usability testing and focus groups, as well as highlights of the feedback received.