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The article discusses factors to consider when testing the usability of a website. Basic facts about usability testing and myths about this technique that need to be exposed are outlined. It gives tips for academic libraries on ways to recruit test subjects on a budget, including collaborating with course instructors to offer additional credit incentives for completing a usability test. It also presents suggestions about offering incentives to potential subjects to take part in the test.

The article discusses the methods done by the author in redesigning the web site of Hunter College Libraries of the City University of New York. The author first met with the major stakeholders of the library before conceptualizing an idea for the web site design. A compilation of the possible things to be used and needed by web site visitors is prepared before adding the color scheme for the site. The end product was described as something that reflects the distinct character of the library and its stakeholders.

The article focuses on redesigning websites. Several books on website redesign are suggested including "Information Architecture from the World Wide Web," "CSS Web Site Design Hands-On Training," and Creating Web Sites Bible." According to the article, important things to remember in redesigning website include identification of the reason for the redesign, brainstorming, and assigning roles within the work group. Tips on what should be avoided include setting strict deadlines, getting caught up in the details, and being trendy.

The article offers insights on designing a library Web site using a content management system (CMS). It is noted that Hunter College Libraries Web site, which was created in 1996, was redesigned in 2002. The author discusses the benefits of using the open source CMS Drupal software, including pre-packaged themes, templates, open source code, multi-platform, and web-based administration.