Enhancing Usability and User Experience: A Comprehensive Evaluation of the E-Library Platform at Paktia University

Abstract

This research explores the usability of the E-Library platform at Paktia University, aiming to gather user feedback and enhance the platform's effectiveness in delivering high-quality academic and research services. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative data from structured usability testing and a Likert-scale questionnaire with qualitative insights obtained through semi-structured interviews with teachers and students from different faculties. The findings indicate exceptional usability, with high task success rates, quick task completion times, and minimal user errors during system interaction. The System Usability Scale (SUS) evaluation yielded an excellent rating, signifying that users perceive the platform as highly usable, efficient, and reliable for academic purposes. Additionally, users reported high satisfaction levels, emphasizing the clarity and organization of content, the responsiveness of the interface, and the effectiveness of search prompts in retrieving relevant resources. Participants expressed confidence in using the system independently, recommended the platform to others, and showed optimism regarding its future development and sustainability. Thematic analysis of interviews uncovered strengths in overall usability, search functionality, accessibility, and positive comparisons with other university libraries. Users suggested improvements related to expanding content diversity, enhancing citation features, and integrating social media tools for broader engagement. In conclusion, the E-Library platform demonstrates exceptional usability, satisfaction, and user-friendliness, while user feedback provides valuable insights to guide future refinements and continuous improvement initiatives.