Users (Information); *World Wide Web

This exploratory study establishes analytical tools (based on both technical criteria and user feedback) by which federal Web site administrators may assess the quality of their websites. The study combined qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques to achieve the following objectives: (1) identify and define key issues regarding representation and access to information resources through federal resources; (2) identify and analyze key information policy issues related to the design, development, and management of Web-based information resources and services; (3) establish evaluative criteria for reviewing federal websites; (4) evaluate a sample of federal Web sites; (5) suggest analytical tools with which federal Web site administrators can analyze site structure and use; and (6) offer recommendations to increase the usefulness of federal Web sites to libraries and other users. Appendices are organized by the four different types of assessment used in the study: systems-based, user-based, design-based, and developer-based assessment (site visit). (Contains 54 references.) (SWC) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document