How users approach discovery tools

Abstract

Researchers observed 21 participants (undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty) conduct known item and topic searches using EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS)™1, Ex Libris’ Primo®2, and Serials Solutions’®3 Summon™4 discovery tools to compare users’ reaction to their interface design and evaluate each tool’s functionality. Participants generally liked the tools’ simple interfaces but had difficulty identifying material formats and faceted search features and were often confused by advanced search limiters and other features. Most demonstrated right-side blindness, failing to notice features or options on the right side of the screen. Participants expressed frustration with what they perceived as less than relevant results in many of their searches.