AuthorAID realised that the existing mentoring system was not engaging its users. We helped them review the programme and improve the user experience by simplifying access to the system. The project also presented the opportunity to upgrade the software and modernise the website, revitalising resources such as the public help forum for academic writers and researchers. This made it easier for users to publish online journals more often.

AuthorAID has created a global network of research mentors who support researchers in developing countries. The site facilitates long-term mentoring as well as short-term advice to support research design and writing.

Aptivate embarked on user testing with AuthorAID users and the internal team. The testing was done in one to one sessions remotely on Skype using screen share. Observing user behaviour gave us valuable information about where people were having problems with the site and to helped us shape recommendations for changes to improve usability of the system.