I would tend to agree that Google Scholar needs to be borne in mind
when bringing resources to the attention of a library's users, as it is
one component amongst many others of value. Though it should be noted
that it is still Beta and a recent workshop on comparing Google Scholar
against WoK and Scopus (see
http://www.jibs.ac.uk/meetings/workshops/giants/index.html) suggested
that this meant it wasn't being regularly updated.
Notwithstanding the relative merits of the different services, it may
be useful to look beyond the databases themselves and consider why
Google, for example, is used so much more. One reason must be the
interface, which provides a simple route to information quickly. Try
as they might, and I know Scopus, for example, did very extensive
usability testing, other database screens are cluttered, and remain
uninviting to users when first seen. The trick of presentation is one
where we could learn a lot from Google and others that aim for this
simplicity (e.g., Amazon - a cluttered screen, but one that offers a
very simple search and quick results). Work carried out on the CREE
project (http://www.hull.ac.uk/esig/cree/) suggested that such a quick
search can show users whether the resource is of use, and that they
will then investigate what else the resource can do for them. The lure
into the resource needs improving.
Regards,
Chris Awre
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Chris Awre
Integration Architect
e-Services Integration Group
Brynmor Jones Library
University of Hull
Cottingham Road
Hull HU6 7RX
t: 01482 46 5441
e: [log in to unmask]
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