Exploring behavior of E-journal users in science and technology: Transaction log analysis of Elsevier's ScienceDirect OnSite in Taiwan

Abstract

In the era of digital libraries, Web-based electronic databases have become important resources for education and research, providing functionality and ease of use superior to print products. Analysis of usage of such online systems can provide valuable information on user behavior, and on usage of electronic information in general. Furthermore, the findings can be used to improve effectiveness of these electronic systems and identify areas for improvement, ranging from user interface and functionality to documentation and product training. This article analyzes usage of the Taiwan-based ScienceDirect OnSite E-journal system, one of the largest and most heavily used full-text Science, Technology, and Medicine (STM) databases worldwide. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.