Redesign Requirements for the National Archives Website: A Comprehensive Requirements Report

1. Executive Summary

• The report titled 'Redesign Requirements for the National Archives Website' provides a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at modernizing the accessibility and functionality of the National Archives' digital platform. Addressing critical questions around usability, technological advancements, and historical preservation, this report outlines necessary design overhaul requirements, advanced search functionalities, and enhancements to special committee records services.

• Key findings indicate that deploying a fully responsive web layout could significantly improve user engagement, as approximately 70% of web traffic now comes from mobile devices. Furthermore, implementing priority-based title services linked to indexed metadata is projected to enhance search accuracy by allowing users to locate pertinent documents more efficiently. The report also emphasizes the need for adherence to established UI/UX guidelines to ensure inclusivity and compliance while fostering a deeper connection with users through optimized storytelling methods and multimedia content. Future directions include ongoing user feedback integration and enhanced SEO strategies to further increase the site's visibility.

2. Introduction

• In today's digital age, where information is paramount and user experience is pivotal, the need for a contemporary redesign of the National Archives website is pressing. The question arises: How can the National Archives effectively bridge the gap between vast historical data and user engagement while preserving the integrity of its valuable records? This report delves into critical requirements for a redesign that embraces the principles of functional design, user experience (UX), and search engine optimization (SEO) to revolutionize national records access.

• The historical significance of the National Archives cannot be overstated; it serves as a cornerstone for research, education, and public engagement. However, as digital technologies rapidly evolve, so do the expectations of users seeking access to this rich repository of information. The proposed redesign endeavors to modernize the existing platform, ensuring it meets contemporary standards while enhancing public access to vital records. By adopting a structural analysis approach, the report carefully examines the necessary design elements and functionalities required to achieve this transformation.

• Divided into three key sections, this report firstly outlines design overhaul requirements, focusing on responsive layouts, prototyping, and compliance with national standards. It then explores the advancements needed in search functionalities to ensure users can quickly and efficiently locate relevant records. Finally, it addresses enhancements for special committee records services that cater to widespread public interests, further demonstrating the National Archives' commitment to transparency and accessibility.

• In summary, this report elucidates a vision for the National Archives' website that prioritizes usability, technology integration, and user satisfaction. The subsequent sections will detail actionable insights and rigorous recommendations for instilling a lasting impact on how the public engages with archival history.

3. Design Overhaul Requirements

• In an era where digital accessibility and user engagement are paramount, the redesign of the National Archives website represents an urgent necessity. A well-structured and user-friendly interface not only enhances public access to vital records but also safeguards the historical narratives embedded within these documents. Given the rapid evolution of web technologies and changing user expectations, the National Archives must embrace a design overhaul that is comprehensive, responsive, and reflective of modern UX principles.

• Compelling design is no longer just about aesthetics; it encompasses functionality, accessibility, and user satisfaction. A thorough understanding of the target audience, coupled with the integration of recent advancements in web technology, is essential in creating a platform that fulfills its cultural and informational mandates. This report delineates the key design requirements that will inform the successful redesign of the National Archives website, ensuring compliance with national standards while also appealing to a diverse user base.

• 3-1. Fully responsive web layout for desktop and mobile

• A fully responsive web layout is a cornerstone of modern web design, especially for institutions like the National Archives seeking to connect with a wide audience. Considering the increasing prevalence of mobile device usage, the design must ensure that information is easily navigable and accessible, regardless of the screen size. This can be accomplished through the use of fluid grids, flexible images, and CSS media queries, which allow adjustments based on the user's device.

• Studies indicate that about 70% of web traffic now comes from mobile devices, underscoring the necessity for a mobile-first approach. By prioritizing mobile design in the initial stages, the National Archives can create a seamless experience that attracts not just casual visitors but serious researchers and genealogists. Implementing a responsive design ensures that all features, from searching databases to viewing historical content, remain user-friendly, providing consistent functionality across platforms.

• 3-2. Two distinct design prototypes using Figma

• Visual communication is critical in conveying the richness of the archives' content, and Figma, as a leading design prototyping tool, offers a dynamic environment for this purpose. The development of two distinct design prototypes allows for experimentation with various interfaces and user flows, thereby facilitating user experience testing and feedback collection. One prototype could emphasize traditional archival values with a focus on document presentation, while the other might leverage modern aesthetics, incorporating vibrant visuals and interactive elements.

• These contrasting prototypes not only serve as useful benchmarks for user feedback but also enable stakeholders to visualize the potential pathways for the redesigned website. By testing these hypotheses with real users, the National Archives can iterate on the designs effectively, ensuring that the final product resonates with diverse audience segments while remaining faithful to its educational mission.

• 3-3. Benchmark analysis against current web services and UI/UX best practices

• To establish a competitive edge, the National Archives must engage in rigorous benchmark analysis against existing web services and contemporary UI/UX best practices. This process involves evaluating similar institutions and educational platforms to identify strengths, weaknesses, and user preferences. Key performance indicators such as ease of navigation, load times, and search optimization play critical roles in ensuring user satisfaction and retention.

• For instance, a recent study revealed that a 1-second lag in page load time could lead to a 7% reduction in conversions, an insight that highlights the importance of efficient back-end optimization alongside attractive user interface design. Incorporating elements such as streamlined navigation menus, rapid search functionalities, and clearly defined calls-to-action can dramatically enhance user engagement, fostering deeper connections with the archives' offerings.

• 3-4. Integration of historical-value video content

• In a world increasingly shaped by multimedia content, incorporating historical-value video content into the National Archives website is crucial for enriching user engagement and storytelling. Videos can serve as compelling tools that breathe life into historical records, providing context and enhancing comprehension through visual narratives. This multimedia approach not only appeals to a broader audience but also satisfies diverse learning preferences.

• Historical documentaries, oral histories, and interactive video timelines representing significant events are but a few examples of content that could be included. These elements can engage users emotionally and intellectually, fostering a deeper connection to the archives while also serving educational purposes. Moreover, optimizing video content for both desktop and mobile viewers ensures accessibility for all users, aligning with the National Archives' commitment to public service.

• 3-5. Compliance with “National Library UI/UX Common Guidelines”

• Adhering to the “National Library UI/UX Common Guidelines” is a fundamental requirement for the redesign of the National Archives website. These standards are designed to promote accessibility, usability, and satisfaction for all users, including those with disabilities. Incorporating these guidelines ensures that the website is not only compliant with national regulations but also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and public service.

• Specific measures include implementing accessible navigation features, employing alternative text for images, and ensuring that all video content is captioned. Furthermore, an emphasis on visual hierarchy can help guide users through the site intuitively, making information retrieval straightforward and efficient. By strictly following these guidelines, the National Archives will create a web experience that respects the diverse needs of its users while enhancing the institution's credibility and public trust.

4. Advanced Search Functionality

• The capacity to retrieve precise information from archives is paramount in a world increasingly defined by data overload. Advanced search functionality represents not just a technological upgrade but an essential evolution of user interaction with archival systems. Such innovations can redefine how citizens access legislative records, ensuring that the past is not only preserved but also made vibrantly accessible in our fast-paced digital landscape.

• As we advance toward a fully integrated digital future, the demand for enhanced search capabilities becomes ever more pronounced. Today's users anticipate instantaneous results tailored to their needs, compelling organizations like the National Archives to rethink and refine their search functionality. By leveraging metadata and real-time integration, the archives not only boost user efficiency but also align with contemporary expectations of accessibility and user engagement.

• 4-1. Priority-based title service linked to indexed metadata (FUN-RMS-05)

• The implementation of a priority-based title service anchored in indexed metadata is crucial for enhancing search outcomes within the National Archives. By prioritizing document titles linked to their metadata, the search functionality enables users to navigate vast quantities of records with greater ease. This approach allows users to find specific documents more efficiently, subsequently fostering a more engaging experience.

• Consider a user searching for legislative documents; if the system ranks documents by relevance to the search terms—taking into account factors such as document title, date of publication, and frequency of use—the likelihood of finding pertinent materials increases significantly. For instance, a document that is frequently cited or requested could be surfaced ahead of less relevant materials, rather than being buried under layers of less pertinent results. This not only enhances user satisfaction but also drives engagement by providing users with content that is most likely to meet their needs.

• 4-2. Integration with the centralized Records Management System for real-time results

• Integrating the advanced search functionality with a centralized Records Management System (RMS) is vital for delivering real-time results and ensuring a cohesive user experience. This integration allows for seamless access to various datasets, ensuring that users can retrieve updated and accurate information without unnecessary delays. Real-time integration is particularly important in domains such as legislative documentation, where the relevance of data can change rapidly with new legislative actions.

• For example, when a new bill is introduced, or an amendment is made to existing legislation, users should be able to instantly access this information through the search platform. This could be achieved by creating automated links between the RMS and the front-end search interface, leveraging APIs that allow for instantaneous updates. The advantage of such a system is twofold: it not only maintains data currency but also builds user trust in the accuracy of the information retrieved.

• 4-3. Enhanced UI for faceted search and filter display

• Enhancing the user interface (UI) for faceted search and filter display is an indispensable feature of modern search systems. A well-designed UI facilitates effective navigation and discovery of information, allowing users to refine their search based on various criteria such as date, category, or document type. Faceted search empowers users by enabling them to drill down into results through a series of filters.

• Imagine a user journey where the interface presents filters like 'Date Range, ' 'Document Type, ' or 'Committee Name, ' which allow for swift segmentation of results. Utilization of visual cues can enhance this journey—color coding filtered results or offering preview thumbnails for certain document types can improve engagement. Current statistics show that user engagement increases significantly when systems provide intuitive and visually appealing search interfaces. Therefore, prioritizing UI design as part of the search functionality revamp is not merely an aesthetic choice but a strategic enhancement that can lead to greater user satisfaction and retention.

• 4-4. SEO considerations for search pages (Naver, Google)

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a critical aspect of modern web interfaces, particularly for search pages within the National Archives. By implementing SEO best practices, archival systems can improve their visibility on platforms like Naver and Google, thereby driving organic traffic to their resources. This is particularly important in a digital landscape where users often rely on search engines to find relevant information.

• Incorporating SEO strategies involves optimizing metadata, including document titles, descriptions, and keywords used within the content to align with users' search habits. For instance, employing structured data markup can help search engines better understand the content hierarchy and relevance of archived documents. Additionally, maintaining a mobile-friendly site design is essential, as a growing proportion of users access information using mobile devices. Current trends indicate that over 54% of searches are performed on mobile, a statistic that underscores the necessity of responsive design principles. Ultimately, by integrating an SEO-focused approach into the redesign of the search functionality, the National Archives can significantly enhance the discoverability of their records, inviting a broader audience to engage with historical documents.

5. Special Committee Records Service Enhancements

• In an era characterized by rapid technological advances and an increasing demand for transparency, the digital management of governmental records has never been more crucial. Particularly, the ability to access and filter legislative records efficiently is vital for enhancing civic engagement and fostering a more informed citizenry. The enhancement of the Special Committee Records Service, therefore, emerges not merely as a functional necessity but as a strategic imperative in redefining the relationship between government archives and the public.

• As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so too must the ways in which we interact with our national archives. The proposed enhancements to the Special Committee Records Service reflect a significant step forward in addressing user needs, catering to a diverse array of inquiries ranging from academic research to casual exploration of legislative history. This innovation is designed with the modern user in mind, focusing on providing streamlined, user-friendly access to vital historical data.

• 5-1. Faceted filtering by parliamentary session and committee type (permanent vs. ad hoc)

• The implementation of faceted filtering by parliamentary session and committee type marks a significant upgrade in the accessibility of archived records. By allowing users to filter records based on distinct categories—such as the type of committee (permanent or ad hoc) and the parliamentary session—the system not only enhances user experience but also supports more efficient research methodologies. For example, researchers focusing on specific legislative periods can easily locate relevant materials without sifting through unrelated documents, thereby saving time and increasing productivity.

• This system of organization is particularly beneficial for addressing the complex nature of legislative records. Permanent committees, which engage in ongoing oversight and policy evaluation, can provide different insights compared to ad hoc committees, which are formed for temporary, specific purposes. By structuring records in this manner, users are empowered to draw more nuanced conclusions from the information available and engage with the legislative process meaningfully.

• 5-2. Downloadable and printable records lists

• The option to download and print records lists is an essential enhancement for users who require physical copies for analysis or record-keeping. This feature caters to a wide audience, including historians, legal professionals, and students who may prefer to work with physical documents or need to present information in settings where digital access is not feasible. By introducing this functionality, the service recognizes the need for versatility in how information is consumed and shared, thereby broadening its reach.

• In addition to providing convenience, this feature also encourages deeper engagement with the records. Users can annotate their printed documents, compile personalized research folders, or utilize printed materials in presentations and reports. The ability to access records offline opens up new avenues for interaction, emphasizing the service's commitment to enhancing the user experience.

• 5-3. “My Library” features: bookmark related documents and request access

• Introducing 'My Library' features represents a proactive approach to user interaction with the archival system. This feature not only allows users to bookmark related documents but also enables them to request access to specific records—tailoring the experience to individual needs. This personalization can significantly enhance user satisfaction and retention, as researchers can create customized collections of documents that directly support their inquiries.

• Furthermore, the request access functionality fosters an interactive environment where users can engage with historical content more dynamically. This approach aligns with contemporary trends in information access, whereby users are not just passive recipients of information but active participants in the archival process. This two-way interaction can lead to enriched research outputs and a deeper appreciation for the legislative history represented within the archives.

• 5-4. Updates to related service pages for consistent UX

• Consistency in user experience across the digital platform is paramount, especially in a context where users interact with a plethora of documents and services. The planned updates to related service pages are intended to create a cohesive design that enhances usability. By ensuring that all pages follow a consistent layout and navigation structure, users will find it easier to transition between different sections of the site, thereby facilitating a more intuitive exploration of records.

• Moreover, a unified design philosophy not only improves user engagement but also reinforces the credibility of the repository as a professional institution. When users recognize a seamless experience, it builds trust and encourages more extensive use of the services offered by the archives. This aligns with global web standards and best practices, affirming the organization's commitment to providing an optimized digital experience.

6. Conclusion

• In conclusion, the comprehensive redesign requirements presented within this report for the National Archives website signify a vital evolution in how historical records are accessed and utilized. Key findings highlight the imperative of developing a fully responsive web interface and sophisticated search capabilities as foundational elements of a user-centric redesign. By aligning the platform with modern standards and best practices, the National Archives not only enhances public engagement but also preserves its mission to inform and educate a diverse audience.

• The inclusion of innovative features, such as multimedia historical content and personalized user functionalities, exemplifies the archives' commitment to enhancing user interactions in an era characterized by rapid technological advancement. As noted, anticipated benefits include increased user satisfaction, streamlined navigation, and improved engagement with legislative and archival processes. These enhancements are indispensable for fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry, inviting a broader demographic to explore the richness of national heritage.

• Looking forward, the National Archives must continue to prioritize user feedback and iterate on the proposed changes to ensure a continuously adapting platform. Additionally, investment in SEO strategies will be crucial for expanding reach and visibility in an increasingly competitive digital environment. By embracing these recommendations, the National Archives will solidify its role as a leading institution in preserving history while engaging the public in meaningful ways.

• Ultimately, the proposed website redesign is not merely a functional update; it is a strategic enhancement of the National Archives’ cultural mission, aimed at bridging the past with the user expectations of today. The commitment to a user-centric approach will create a dynamic and interactive experience, ensuring that the archives remain a vital resource for generations to come.

Glossary

• Responsive Web Layout: A web design approach that ensures web pages render well on a variety of devices and window or screen sizes, optimizing user experience across desktops and mobile devices.

• User Experience (UX): The overall experience a user has when interacting with a website or application, including ease of use, accessibility, and satisfaction.

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO): The practice of optimizing a website to improve its visibility on search engines like Google and Naver, ultimately driving organic traffic to the site.

• Faceted Search: A search technique that allows users to refine their search results based on various attributes or categories, such as date, type, or relevance.

• Metadata: Descriptive information about data, helping to improve search outcomes by providing context and facilitating organization within databases.

• Benchmark Analysis: A comparison method that evaluates one organization's performance against that of others, focusing on practices and standards within a specific industry.

• Figma: A cloud-based design tool used for interface design and prototyping, allowing multiple users to collaborate in real time.

• WCAG 2.1: The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.1, which outlines how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities.

• Research Methodology: The systematic approach adopted to conduct research, focusing on how information is gathered, analyzed, and interpreted.

• UI (User Interface): The means through which a user interacts with a computer, software, or website, encompassing everything from buttons to layout design.

• Priority-Based Title Service: A search feature that prioritizes and ranks documents based on relevance to specific search queries, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of information retrieval.

• Historical-Value Video Content: Multimedia elements that incorporate historical narratives and information through video formats to enhance understanding and engagement with archival records.

• Real-Time Integration: The process of synchronizing data in a way that updates in real-time, ensuring users have immediate access to the most current information.

• Accessibility Compliance: Adherence to legal and best practice standards that ensure digital content is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

Source Documents

• 국회기록통합관리시스템 개발사업 제안요청서_v250218.pdfUID_23238c3c-6253-4668-a96f-97971133318b_2025-06-30T03:55:51.609Z_국회기록통합관리시스템 개발사업 제안요청서_v250218.pdf