Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Organizations that depend on online learning management systems are under increasing pressure to modernize, and Card Sorting Techniques has emerged as one of the more promising avenues for doing so, given its demonstrated impact in related domains.

Despite this potential, many existing online learning management systems were not originally designed with card sorting techniques in mind, resulting in persistent gaps in perceived usability that limit their overall effectiveness. This study examines how Card Sorting Techniques can be applied to help close that gap.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Existing approaches to perceived usability within online learning management systems remain largely reactive and fragmented, with little systematic use of card sorting techniques despite its demonstrated value elsewhere. This study addresses the resulting gap by designing and evaluating a solution built specifically around card sorting techniques.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To design and implement a card sorting techniques-based approach to improving perceived usability in online learning management systems.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of Card Sorting Techniques in enhancing perceived usability within online learning management systems.
3. To identify the key requirements and constraints relevant to deploying card sorting techniques in this context.
4. To assess user and stakeholder perception of the resulting system.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How can card sorting techniques be applied to improve perceived usability in online learning management systems?
2. How effective is Card Sorting Techniques at enhancing perceived usability within online learning management systems?
3. What requirements and constraints are relevant to deploying card sorting techniques in this context?
4. How do users and stakeholders perceive the resulting system?

1.5 Significance of the Study

Beyond its immediate technical contribution, this study offers value to organizations evaluating whether to invest in card sorting techniques for their own online learning management systems, and contributes to the broader literature on applied UI/UX design by documenting a concrete implementation and evaluation case.

1.6 Scope of the Study

As a MSc-level study, its scope is confined to designing and evaluating a card sorting techniques-based solution for online learning management systems, focused specifically on perceived usability; broader deployment considerations fall outside this scope.