Using focus groups to match user expectations with library constraints

Focus groups can furnish needed user input in a short time frame. The issues to be discussed must be clearly identified and questions formulated. Appropriate participants can then be selected. Care should be exercised in selecting a facilitator, a meeting location, and recording equipment. Sessions transcripts can be readily analyzed using a matrix which can then be utilized to compile a written report summarizing both the overwhelming feeling of group and other points brought out.