Evaluating the Usability of a Moroccan University Research Management Web Platform

Abstract The success of any system or interface depends on the satisfaction of the user and users are only satisfied when they are able to do their job in a simple and effective way [1]. The purpose of the SIMARECH information system [2], [3] is the piloting of research in Moroccan universities, their institutions and structures, to support researchers and enhance their scientific output. Ensuring the proper use of the SIMARECH information system has always been a real concern of the Abdelmalek Essaadi University (UAE) in Moroccan universities and national research institutions. The purpose of this study is to investigate usability issues and provide recommendations for achieving the system goal within the UAE university institutions. The objective of this research paper is to evaluate the usability of the SIMARECH platform based on a complete test methodology. The study was conducted from January to March 2018 based on Jakob Nielsen methodology [4] and the methods of data collection Nielsen’s Attributes of Usability Questionnaire (NAU) [4]. The results showed a high level of usability for the platform, but it should be further improved. It is found that the followed approach can effectively assess the usability of scientific research information systems.