BESS Interview Questions

1. Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to buy a used textbook? If yes: How did you do it? Please describe the steps and any difficulties you encountered.

I prefer used textbooks because they’re cheaper. When I try to find a used book, I check out the campus bookstore and if a used book isn’t available (this happens a lot), I check out other bookstores in Berkeley.  If I still can’t find one, I look online at a site like half.com

Difficulties: process is time consuming because you have to choose and visit bookstores, then shop around online.

2.  Have you ever been in a situation where you wanted to sell a used textbook? (but not to the bookstore). If yes: Describe process and difficulties.

I can sell to bookstore, but get less money
I can email around to find takers
I can track down the class the next semester and stand around after class, trying to sell the book
Someone I already know might want the book

3.  What would it take to make you use a book exchange system such as BESS?  (Explain BESS.)  What features would be useful to you?  (Speed?  Convenience?  Savings?)

1. Selection of books (can I find the book I need?)
2. Speed

4.  Would the level of openness of the system affect your use (i.e. SIMS-only access versus other students, log-in versus open browsing)?

Security not important, we’re all students
It could be open to everyone