Amnh Website Analysis

Web Usability Analysis |

Analysis of the American Museum of Natural History Website |

|

Table of Contents

Introduction 2

Cognitive-Affective Design Considerations 2

Affective Aspects 2

Cognitive Aspects 3

Task Analysis 4

Buying Tickets 4

Plan a Visit 5

Find Dinosaur Exhibit Information 5

Site Navigation 6

Site Organization 7

Learn & Teach 7

Join & Support 7

Shop 8

Usability Evaluation 8

Usability Factors 8

Nielsen Heuristics 9

Conclusion 11

References 13

Introduction

The website chosen for the Web Usability Analysis project represents the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), located in New York City. The AMNH (2013) states it’s “…global mission to discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education, and exhibition.” The website promotes the activities and exhibits that can be found within the physical building. It also has e-commerce capability, allowing customers to purchase tickets for general admission or special exhibits.

Cognitive-Affective Design Considerations

Affective Aspects

Affective design considerations are meant to evoke a reaction or emotion from users as they interact with an interface (Höök, 2013). Emotion is a crucial consideration when approaching design for various experiences and interactions (Höök, 2013).

Emotional Design: “The visceral level responds rapidly making judgments about what is good or bad…(Rogers, Sharp, and Preece, 2011, p.149).” In loading the site, the user is met with interesting images showcasing exhibits when visiting the site. The site is organized with a header, menu, and slideshow all in their proper, visually-pleasing spaces. The theme colors of blue and gray are carried throughout the site, making it cohesive.

Ease of Use: Norman (2004) as cited in Rogers, Sharp, and Preece (2011, p.149) explains that ease of use is tied to a user’s...