Empowering User Engagement: UCQ-FRAME's Role in User-Centred Design at OPERAS

This proposal presents a poster presentation with a focus on the development and significance of the Common Framework Defining the Methodology for Achieving User-Centred Quality Objectives (UCQ-FRAME). The UCQ-FRAME serves as a methodological framework at the core of the OPERAS-PLUS project, particularly within Work Package 6 (WP6). Its purpose is to enhance user-centred design (UCD) practices within open scholarly communication, with a specific emphasis on the social sciences and humanities. The landscape of open scholarly communication has evolved significantly, placing a greater emphasis on inclusivity, diversity, and user engagement. OPERAS-PLUS recognized the shifting needs of users and initiated the development of the UCQ-FRAME to elevate user experiences within its services. Part A of the framework lays the groundwork for User-Centred Design (UCD) processes by aligning them with ISO 9241 standards and integrating the ResearchOps framework. It offers an iterative design cycle equipped with tailored methods and tools to facilitate standardized processes and systematic evaluation of user experience maturity. This section underscores the importance of dedicated UX teams, comprehensive user research, and inclusive participant recruitment. Part B complements the framework by providing a curated list of methods and tools drawn from existing OPERAS projects, services, and relevant literature. These resources empower project teams to adapt and implement UCD practices, ensuring the delivery of high-quality user experiences while accommodating specific project requirements. The UCQ-FRAME is a dynamic framework that actively considers user and other stakeholder input and feedback, ensuring the framework’s continued relevance and practicality. This poster presentation introduces the UCQ-FRAME to the broader community, highlighting its role in promoting user-centred design principles and advancing user engagement within this domain. Attendees are invited to engage in constructive discussions about the framework’s development, application, and potential implications for the future of open scholarly communication. The insights and feedback gathered from this presentation will be valuable as the UCQ-FRAME continues to evolve, contributing to the enhancement of OPERAS on its path to becoming operational as an ERIC.