What Do You Mean It Doesn't Make Sense? Redesigning Finding Aids from the User's Perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT Archivists have begun to rethink the way that they present finding aids to patrons online. They are utilizing user studies to gain a better understanding of what information patrons expect to find and are investigating how to utilize Web 2.0 technologies to better meet patron needs. This article examines how the L. Tom Perry Special Collections is rethinking their finding aids presentation and their planned use of Web 2.0 technologies on their new finding aids Web site. It highlights the process for designing the new Web site and the usefulness of user studies to archivists.