Scientists' preferences for bioinformatics tools: the selection of information retrieval systems

In this paper, we present the findings of a survey of scientists regarding the characteristics they rate as important in their selection of bioinformatics tools. A total of 223 biologists completed a web-based questionnaire in which they assessed 39 individual characteristics of bioinformatics tools, independently rating the importance of each one in their selection of bioinformatics tools. The most highly rated characteristic was whether a tool actually accomplished what a participant needed it to do. Other highly rated characteristics included the ease of use of a tool, online availability, little or no cost, the ability to handle large data sets, and compatibility with other tools. Rated as non-important were characteristics relating to an imposed choice, such as a tool already having been purchased. Differences in ratings were found between those whose work was primarily focused on laboratory biology, and those whose work was primarily computer focused. The findings provide a set of characteristics by which bioinformatics tools can be annotated to facilitate the selection of tools. The findings also highlight the need to consider the requirements of different user groups in the design and development of information systems, rather than assuming that one size fits all.