Website Evaluation Report
The objective of the Brisbane Media Map database is to provide valuable information and links to numerous media and media-related organisations that serve the Brisbane area, and includes useful links to other online media directories.Since the online Brisbane Media Map database is developed as a tool for potential users, it should stand to reason that it is developed with the needs and abilities of the user in mind. This is because sometimes the user's needs can become lost in the complexity of the project, the ease of use is sacrificed to mere functionality and clarity of display is lost in the middle of programming features, such as flashing, frames, and clever graphics. I intend to evaluate whether or not the user's needs, and particularly the needs of the user who maybe relatively new to the online world, appear to have been kept uppermost in the minds of those designing the layout and functionality of the course directory.Firstly, the Brisbane Media Map Database (BMM) is a well-structured, easily navigable website. When browsing it, it is obvious that throughout the BMM domain the database's look and formatting are consistent. Users are abl
The target audience for the database is defined broadly as being students, and media professionals in the field of media and its related disciplines. e to find requested pieces of information in the minimum number of clicks necessary and they can also take advantage of a detailed site map for easy orientation. 'The database endeavours to provide extra information regarding various issues and trends in the media. The structure of the information needs to be improved upon focusing on changes to the categories and sub-categories making them more specific which would further support effective navigation. Some of the major weaknesses that need to be improved upon are:* ease of finding information quickly;* organisation of information;* contains up to date information. Information is presented using terminology that would be familiar to most users and all users will usually have a clear sense of "where they are" in the directory and can navigate easily through the database as all options are clearly identified and easily accessed. A few of the database's major strength's include: * ease of usability;* clarity of display;* terminology;* usefulness of information. When running a search through the search engine Google with the term 'Brisbane Media Map' it returns the website in the number one position, as does the term 'BMM QUT. I suggest that the menu either be replaced with a static menu at the top of the screen or that the changing menu is represented with a clearer graphic which would be more attractive to the user's eye. In addition, the menu on the left side of the screen serves the intended function of helping users understand where they are and what options are available but it could be improved by enlarging the font. This would include for example, posting this years line-up for the 2002 Livid Festival and adding to the list as new bands are announced. It is important however for the ease of the user, not to go too deep in the hierarchy, only two or three levels to avoid confusion. Throughout the semester I will endeavour to update and check on existing entries that fall under these two fields. The search function offers simple and advanced search features and I can only suggest that further extensive instructions be included to the search features to assist beginner users.
Common topics in this essay:
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Relations Throughout,
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Livid Festival,
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Willey Holt,
map database,
Coast September,
Brisbane Media,
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clarity display,
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public relations,
include *,
information *,
top screen,
search features,
search function,
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Acceptance Essays
