#1: The sign in screen.
Now for an analysis. The first thing that stands out in my mind is the wording in red that says when the computer is reserved, in this case, it is reserved at 10:10 am. This only occurs when a computer is reserved ahead of time and this allows walk up patrons to see that it is already reserved. They can go ahead and use the computer if there is time available before the reserved time but once 10:10 (or any reservation) arrives, they will be logged off. If the computer is available, it would look like this:
Notice it says "Available" in green.
Additionally, notice that an open computer prompts patrons to click on the colored text to log in.
The next step after a patron enters in their library barcode number is they will have to enter their access code (remember, no more PIN numbers) Once this is done, they will be able to use the computer.
#2 The Public Computer Itself.
The only noticeable difference here is the counter, which tells the patron how many minutes are left in their session. The counter is also larger and has a more noticeable font. If a patron logs out, or logs out early, they will get this message or something close to it:
Keep in mind that this is still being tested, still being wordsmithed but nonetheless, the PCR Task Force would like to know what you think. Please leave any questions or comments under the "comments" link.
A common patron question will be "How much of my two hours do I have left? (Often prefaced by "no way have I used that much time, your system has shorted me!)
ReplyDeleteGranted, the new system will make it far easier for patrons to estimate their own time left, but will PCR enable staff to look up the usable time remaining for a patron's day?
Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteRegarding time usage, PCR will let patrons know how much time they used, how much they have left. In regard to their question about being shorted time, I believe PCR will do a better a job of tracking usage so this may be a ploy to try to get extra time. As for staff looking up how much time is left for a patron, PCR will definitely allow us to do that. I hope that answers your questions.
J
What is the "access code"? You said no PIN anymore. Is it their barcode no.? A new no. they are going to have to come up with?
ReplyDeleteAnonymous,
ReplyDeleteThere will still be a PIN number but it will be used by the patron to access their account. To use a computer, the patron will enter their barcode number, the reservation kiosk will then generate a one time use access code. I covered this topic in an earlier post that you can view at http://fresnolibpcreservation.blogspot.com/2009/02/goodbye-pin-numbers-hello-access-codes.html I hope this helps.
J