Abstract

Regenerated Identities (RegID) is a web-based content management system for digital humanities (DH) scholars to curate, meta-tag, analyze, visualize, cross-reference, and publish large volumes of historical datasets. This article describes the development methodology of RegID, highlighting the underlying theoretical concepts driven by information studies and the results of participatory research that employs user-centered design and design thinking strategies. Focusing on African studies and slavery research as a case study, the development of RegID demonstrates that a thematic approach and understanding of users’ needs and behavior of information interactions is important in developing such digital tools. Scholars' engagement in the design process helps address their unique challenges and workflows, which is unachievable through broad-spectrum content management systems such as WordPress, Jumla, or Wix. The user-centered design facilitated a more intuitive and efficient interface that provides a digital space for collaborative research. RegID is hosting over 20 projects addressing the technological challenges faced by scholars in the field.

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