Bridging the (Unit) Divide: Applying User Experience to a Discovery Layer

Implementation of a discovery layer at the Michigan State University Libraries has been an experience in bridging a cultural divide between Public Services, Web Services, and Systems units. Without a comprehensive plan, the User Experience unit took the lead to support a user-centric culture and build trust while influencing design decisions for the successful launch of SearchPlus, our branded Summon 2.0 discovery layer. As a result, conversations between these units have become more engaged and productive. User experience activities continue to influence customization of SearchPlus to meet patrons’ needs, including a current campaign to launch a “bento box” for search results.