The market has changed rapidly and libraries must increasingly deal with a wide range of new content providers about the users' attention.
When Axiell was about to start working on the next version of its market-leading library system, they opted for a different solution than the traditional way: Collecting feature requests from users, and then launching a new version which is essentially the old version with some extra features and functionality.
Instead Axiell contacted KathArt Interactive, which was asked about our opinions on how a future "Web 2.0"-library might look and function.
KathArt produced a demo version with limited functionality, but providing a first impression of the interface and functionality.
The demo contained examples of the use of the important search engine, examples of user involvement through tagging, forums, reviews, upload and download of electronic material, booking via mobile phone, interaction with other Web-based databases and much more.
In that way, Axiell had something real and tangible, they could ask customers relate to. The demo was shown at fairs and to customers and was then adjusted in the light of the feedback from the customers.
When the demo had a form that everyone was satisfied with, the actual design work and development of the real system was started.
KathArt Interactive acted as usability and design consultants and created the design of the system, while Axiell was responsible for programming the backend.
KathArt Interactive has subsequently also been offering advice and delivered design to Axiell Library Groups new corporate website.
"For more than 2 yearsago we started working with KathArt, and this cooperation has been expanded over time.
It started with the idea that we would like to present the thoughts we had about Web 2.0 in the library world for our customers. KathArt got the job because we felt that their understanding of the web milieus was unique; they understood our thoughts and translated them into an exciting mock-up.
This visualization has been extended a few times and is now translated into four languages. It has been a good backdrop for the many good dialogues with customers as well as part of both sales and development of the system.
Then, KathArt was a natural choice for us since Axiell should have a new website.
A website designed to be innovative and translate some of our ideas from the mock-up about user activity and contribution. KathArt developed the user-friendly lay-out, which is characterized by simplicity and clear signals.
The dialogue between KathArt and Axiell has been characterized by mutual respect, sensitivity, creativity and commitment. And agreed timetables was met, which was much appreciated"
- Lise Söderberg, Nordic Communication and Marketing Manager