Describes a usability study conducted with health sciences students at the University of Washington that explored interface issues in the GramStain Tutor, an educational software program on CD-ROM, particularly the navigation of the program and the use of embedded design features. (LRW)

Discusses the need for usability testing for information systems and for librarians to recognize what makes computer interfaces either easy or difficult to use. Highlights include user friendliness; navigation; standards; visual appeal; layout and design; feedback; help screens; and the usability-testing process. (LRW)

A portal is the digital infrastructure for an online campus. Community portals, online service portals, and enterprise-wide platforms represent the three basic portal variations available for online campuses. They are differentiated by the offices represented, the campus audience served, and benefits provided to the school as a whole. (PGS)