Overview - Reference Analytics Quick Start Guide - Springshare Help at Springshare

1 System, 100% Reference

LibAnswers is a web 2.0 question-and-answer reference solution for libraries.

It enables patrons to ask questions and search the existing knowledge base from anywhere on the web, including courseware systems, blogs, Twitter, etc.
Librarians can embed links, videos, and documents to answers.
Users can comment on and improve the answers and build a community knowledge base.

The system provides full statistics on the number of questions submitted, answered, queries performed, etc.

The optional Analytics Module enables you to track all reference transactions thru LibAnswers.

The optional SMS Module enables you to receive questions and send answers via text.

With the Analytics & SMS modules, LibAnswers becomes a one-stop shop for all your reference tracking and statistics - not just web reference but also in-person, email, SMS, phone, etc.

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The LibAnswers Analytics Module

Keep all information/data about reference together in one place
- In Person
- Email
- IM
- SMS
- Phone
- However else you provide assistance
Define the data you want to track, e.g. various desks (reference, circulation, info commons, satellite reference desk, etc.), types of users asking questions (students, faculty, alumni, etc.), types of questions (directions vs. ready reference vs. reference vs. circulation questions, etc.) – whatever is important to you.
Go beyond Tick Sheets and effortlessly analyze your reference data from many angles.
Gather valuable data about how questions are answered and tie it to the actual question *and* answer. Instead of just knowing how many reference questions were answered for grad students, know *what the questions were*. This helps you target/refine other materials and services toward that group of users.
Gather reference statistics and build your knowledge base AT THE SAME TIME. Better insight into data and a robust knowledge base leads to better reference, more useful web site, and improved library services!
Know at a glance what your busiest days/times are for answering questions, where most questions are being asked, how they are asked, etc. and then make more informed staffing decisions.