Date of Award

Spring 4-24-2026

Document Type

Honors Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Computer Science

Department Chair or Program Director

Marshall, Andrew

First Advisor

Jennifer Polack

Major or Concentration

Computer Science

Abstract

Nonprofit organizations increasingly rely on web applications to coordinate volunteers, yet many such systems lack the usability necessary to support diverse user populations. This study evaluates and redesigns the Gwyneth’s Gift Volunteer Management System using established human–computer interaction principles and user-centered design methodologies. A systematic assessment identified four major usability gaps—menu navigation, form structure, breadcrumb trails, and selection‑bar behavior—each contributing to user confusion, inefficiency, or error. High‑fidelity prototypes were developed to address these issues, emphasizing consistency, reduced cognitive load, transparent navigation, and improved interaction flow. These prototypes informed the implementation of redesigned interface components, including streamlined menus, multi‑step registration forms with progress indicators, standardized breadcrumb trails, and interactive dropdown navigation. The final system was evaluated using Budd’s Heuristics for Web Design, demonstrating measurable improvements in clarity, efficiency, and alignment with user expectations. This work contributes a practical case study in applying usability principles to nonprofit technologies and highlights the value of user-centered design in enhancing volunteer engagement and organizational effectiveness.

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