McCormick, Carol and Pickard, Alison (2011) Web 2.0 Technologies (Netvibes/Pageflakes) startpages: an evaluation on their effectiveness within NHS libraries. In: Evidence Based Library and Information Practice Conference (EBLIP6), 27 - 30 June 2011, University of Salford, Greater Manchester, UK.
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Objective
The aims of this study are: To provide an evaluation on the effectiveness of Web 2.0 technologies in particular “Startpages” (Netvibes & Pageflakes) within NHS libraries, and to determine whether the Netvibes page for South Tees Hospital provides NHS staff with evidence and support in clinical decision-making and their CPD.
Evidence suggests that Startpages are commercially successful at delivering a current awareness programme for its users, but there is little research regarding the barriers faced by health librarians when using these technologies within the NHS. The objectives of this research are to explore the use of Web 2.0 technologies within NHS libraries and staff and end user perceptions of “Startpages” as well as to establish the skills sets of library staff in the use of promotion of Web 2.0 resources.
Methods
A comparative case study was conducted to gather information from other NHS libraries that had created a 'Netvibes' or 'Pageflakes' current awareness portal. A reflective questionnaire was used to gather Health Librarians and paraprofessional staffs’ attitudes and experiences of using this technology. Consultation with medical and non-clinical staff who use the Netvibes page at The James Cook University Hospital was also conducted via an online survey questionnaire and in-depth interviews.
Results
Users were positive about the value of Netvibes in their own CPD. Few users experience any problems with the site, but time for evaluation and instruction were seen as vital. Librarians from other NHS libraries reported that feedback from their own users was positive but there was a need to focus more on user needs and involve them more in the design and set-up of the pages.
Conclusion
Whilst findings were positive in many aspects of this study several barriers were identified, including lack of staff training in the use of these technologies and also highlighting their knowledge gaps in Web 2.0 buzzwords. These implications along with recommendations for overcoming ICT hurdles, should serve as a future pedagogic tool for other NHS libraries that are considering implementing a Startpage, which favours user engagement.
| Item Type: | Conference or Workshop Item (Paper) |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | G500 Information Systems P100 Information Services |
| Department: | Faculties > Engineering and Environment > Computer and Information Sciences |
| Related URLs: | |
| Depositing User: | Ay Okpokam |
| Date Deposited: | 27 Feb 2012 16:54 |
| Last Modified: | 12 Oct 2019 20:48 |
| URI: | http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/5554 |
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