Enhancing DSpace CRIS 7: An Approach to Repository Design

University of Bern and Scuola universitaria professionale della Svizzera italiana, utilizing DSpace CRIS 7, are in the process of redesigning the user interface to enhance user-friendliness and engage a broader audience. Recognizing the default design's resemblance to traditional repositories, we address the need for a modern and appealing interface. Our methodology involves the creation of wireframes and work with a design company, aligning the entire process with our corporate identity. While results are yet to be implemented, the aim is a more engaging and transparent repository interface, reflecting modern design principles. The initiative responds to the evolving expectations of academic and public users, emphasizing user-friendliness, aesthetics, and transparency. This proposal seeks to share our ongoing experience and anticipated outcomes, aligning with the OR2024 sub-theme of "Transparency: Promoting research transparency" to contribute to discussions on enhancing the openness and accessibility of academic repositories.