Enhancing User Experience on Journal Websites: A Novel Entropy–based Weighing Method with MARCOS and COCOSO Ranking Approaches

This paper addresses the dearth of research dedicated to optimizing UI designs of journal websites by proposing a novel evaluation framework. Drawing upon insights from existing literature, methodologies from manufacturing layout optimization, and MCDM techniques, a comprehensive approach was introduced to assess and enhance journal website UI designs. The methodology integrates the MARCOS and COCOSO systems with entropy–based weighing to provide a thorough evaluation of UI designs, considering both qualitative and quantitative factors. Through a systematic analysis of UI design criteria, such as content accessibility, readability, search functionality, and visual design, the framework aims to identify strengths and weaknesses in journal website interfaces. The results from evaluation demonstrate the critical importance of factors such as content accessibility and readability, alongside search functionality and user–friendly navigation. By leveraging MCDM techniques, improvements that enhance user satisfaction and engagement levels are prioritized. Alternative A2 is found best followed by A1, A5, A4, and A3. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis ensures the robustness/reliability of the framework, allowing for an examination of the impact of varying weights on evaluation outcomes. Overall, the study contributes to bridging the gap between existing research on UI design principles and the specific challenges faced by journal website interfaces. Based on the individual factor weights, developers may focus to improve existing designs as per the ranking of the factors. This holistic approach provides valuable insights for journal website managers seeking to optimize UI designs and improve user experiences.