Transaction log analysis for exploring search patterns of the OPAC users of University of Moratuwa

Abstract

This transaction log analysis study aimed to identify the searching behaviour, searching patterns and causes of search failures of the patrons with the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) of the University of Moratuwa. Further, this study could guide implementing various changes to improve the Library Management System (LMS) and its OPAC, re-structure the library's user education programmes, and identify the necessary adjustments required for different types of library services. The OPAC transaction log contained 95,340 records for three months (from August to October 2019) and was analysed statistically using multivariate techniques. Two kinds of transaction logs were identified in this study. It was considered 68,618 records as non-logged transactions and 9,592 records as logged transactions. According to the results of the study, the average number of transactions per month was 26,070. The average number of non-logged transactions per month was 22,873, and the average logged transactions per month was 3,197. Results of the study have evidenced that the patrons highly preferred the simple search interface over the advanced search interface. The keyword search was the most popular searching option of the patrons in simple search, and many filtering options offered in the advanced search interface were underutilised. The study results have forced the library to redesign its user education programmes to provide better awareness, knowledge, and skills for patrons in handling OPAC. The library should regularly emphasise OPACs features and advantages among the students using various promotional activities such as user awareness workshops, leaflets, discussion forums or chat services, etc. The functionality and design of the OPAC should be reformed to satisfy the patrons and their information needs.