Usage Monitoring and Reporting

Website usage monitoring involves the collection of information about how a website is being used. Website usage monitoring and evaluation are an important part of the ongoing management of websites. Results can inform future development and, in combination with the evaluation of other aspects of the initiative (eg costs) can help ensure that the initiative meets the business needs of agencies.

Tell Me About?

Website usage monitoring involves the collection of information about how a website is being used. Evaluation is the analysis of the usage-monitoring information to assess the success of an online service in fulfilling or meeting business goals. Key tools or techniques in usage monitoring and evaluation include surveys, focus groups, usability testing and website statistics.

The monitoring and evaluation process is an important way of ensuring that the website meets the business needs of departments and agencies as well as the needs of users. As with other government programs, monitoring and evaluation of the usage of websites and other e-government initiatives form part of agencies' corporate governance responsibilities.

The process has a range of potential advantages. By helping to target and refine the scope of website activities, such as redevelopment and site marketing, you can reduce the risk of budget or scope blow-out ensuring that the site delivers maximum benefits at an acceptable cost.

Results can also reveal changes in usage patterns, such as reduced number of visitors.

Why Must I?

There are no mandatory Australian Government requirements for this topic. However, a CEO is required to manage the affairs of the agency in a way that promotes proper use of Commonwealth resources as outlined in the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 and the Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Act 1997. An important step in demonstrating accountability is to evaluate all web and content projects.