VuFind® Leipzig 2024 Future Discoveries: Is this Really Relevant? Browser Based Testing for Enhan...

TALK 2 (ENG)
Is this Really Relevant? Browser Based Testing for Enhancing Search Results Collaboratively (Duncan Paterson / Annette Kaufmann | FID Asien / SBB SPK)
Abstract: Relevancy in search results is the cornerstone of effective library discovery systems. This talk addresses the challenge of achieving high relevancy by presenting a framework for browser based relevancy testing, facilitating collaborative improvements. With three productive VuFind instances (stabikat.de, search.crossasia.org, and vifa recht.de) serving diverse user groups, establishing relevancy criteria presents a significant challenge. Through user observations and expert feedback, we identified inconsistencies in delivering relevant search results for 80 sample searches and drafted a broad strategy for improvements. We will cover the implementation of browser based relevancy tests via Cypress.io and its integration into the development process. Our focus includes lessons learned regarding test design and open development practices that bridge the gap between technical experts, domain knowledge, and users. We will discuss trade offs between optimizing different search strategies and managing complex side effects from spot fixes to individual queries. By leveraging CI/CD best practices, we empower non developers to experiment and contribute, improving both search results and communication between departments and with users. Ultimately, this talk provides practical insights for developers and librarians aiming to enhance the user experience of VuFind search results, ensuring more relevant and effective discovery systems.
ABOUT THE EVENT:
The conference “VuFind® Leipzig 2024. Future Discoveries” (30.09.-01.10.2024) joined two important events in the field of discovery systems in libraries, bringing together experts on an international level. On the one hand the German VuFind®-Anwendertreffen, on the other hand the international VuFind® Summit. Our aim was to shed light on the current state of discovery systems and discuss their future potential with over 80 participants on site and around 160 registrations online - including Demian Katz, the maintainer and lead developer of VuFind®. For more information about the conference, please visit our event page at vufind.org/wik....
COPYRIGHT:
This video is provided by Leipzig University Library under CC-BY license.
Camera and editing: Leipzig University Library