Elham Saljoughi; Nona Aghasi; Mahdieh Asadi; Maryam Okhovati
Volume 13, Issue 2 , April 2016, , Pages 108-113
Abstract
Introduction: Since the relationship between the user and the web is through the user interface, it is essential that health websites be user-centric. The aim of the present study was to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the user interface of health websites in Iran. Methods: ...
Read More
Introduction: Since the relationship between the user and the web is through the user interface, it is essential that health websites be user-centric. The aim of the present study was to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the user interface of health websites in Iran. Methods: This applied and descriptive research was conducted using heuristic method. Based on their Alexa rank and the rate of related pages, 13 health websites were selected. The websites were examined by 5 evaluators (3 graduates in computer sciences and 2 in medical library and information sciences) using a checklist containing 5 major criteria and 27 items. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in Excel software. Results: The health literacy websites had observed 63.78% of the criteria of the checklist. The criteria of flexibility (89%), technical features (81%), and aesthetics and visibility (77%) gained the highest scores, respectively. However, the lowest scores belonged to the criteria of help and documentation (36.9%) and responsiveness and interaction (35%). Conclusion: The websites’ user interfaces were in relatively desirable conditions. According to the findings, the criteria of help and documentation and responsiveness and interaction require more attention. It is suggested that these websites resolve the identified problems and minimize the gap between them and the users, so that users can visit these websites more frequently.
