Linked open data portals: Functionalities and user experience in semantic catalogues

Abstract

Purpose - This study seeks to understand the current state of development of Linked Open Data (LOD) bibliographic portals to discuss their functionalities, contributions, value-adds, and user experience. Design/methodology/approach - A set of evaluative aspects grouped into three analysis dimensions was established: Collections, Tools—technologies and standards used—and Web user interface. As the object of the study, four projects of diverse nature and volume were selected to help provide a better understanding of the trends in the solutions provided for the end user when accessing linked data collections. Findings - Publishing linked open data through visual interfaces maximises information enrichment, contextualisation, and discovery, in addition to improving user experience, because of both increased navigation capabilities and interrelationships between data. These more flexible environments have metamorphosised the visualisation of bibliographic information. However, aspects that needed improvement were observed, primarily relating to (a) a more intuitive interaction, (b) possibilities of greater personalisation, (c) enhanced communication with the user to favour user engagement, and (d) experimental spaces of data reuse. Research limitations/implications - Further quantitative and qualitative studies should be conducted to improve these portals, assess their adaptation to the behaviour of the user, and their influence on the use of library collections. Originality/value - This article investigates the potential of semantic technologies in bibliographic data portals, proposes a methodological model for their evaluation, and advances conclusions about the usability and user experience that these platforms provide, compared to classic catalogues.