Migrating Library SystemsMigrating Data

Dianne SchaeferSocial Law Library

American Association of Law LibrariesMinneapolis, Minnesota

July 15, 2001

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Introduction – Why? Out-of-date software Out-of-date hardware Other institutional activity Result should address the reasons

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Introduction – What? Source

– System – Modules– Data

Destination– System – Modules – Data

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Introduction – How? Develop a plan of work, including:

– Goals– Strategy– Timeline– Participants

Migrating data = crucial part of migrating systems

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Overview Gather background information Select system Implement system Maintain system

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Gather Background Information Institutional statistics, e.g., number of items,

serials, patrons, etc. Institutional requirements, e.g., RFP? Funding – estimate 5-7 year cost Functionalities that are required, desired,

optional, etc.

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Data Migration Options Direct transfer Authorize Clean Convert Gap tape?

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Select System - VendorsIdentify potential vendors Where spend time & resources Request product catalog Demonstrations

– At trade shows– In-house

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Select System - Colleagues Contact other institutions

– Ask questions– Visit– Electronic discussion lists

Contact patrons

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Select System - Decision Request for Proposal (RFP) Document why each vendor eliminated or

retained– Identify key factors– Identify who approved or disapproved

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Select System - ContractNegotiate contract Consultant? Future security regarding:

– Operating system – Subsequent purchases – Maintenance

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Implement System Staff involvement

– Obtain approval for all decisions– Verify system functionality– Verify data

Patron involvement– Notify about changes– Opportunity to select options

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Implement & Maintain System - Workflows Evaluate

– Still most appropriate?– Still most efficient?

Modify as necessary and appropriate

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Maintain System – New Developments

Keep abreast of new developments Own vendor Other vendors Related vendors

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Maintain System - TrainingStaff and patron training On-going reviews Orientation for new staff and patrons How to use new features

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Summary Need support of administration, staff and

patrons Ask questions of everyone – staff, patrons,

other institutions, vendors, etc. Spend the necessary time

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Additional Information – Literature (selected) Integrated Library System Reports -

www.ilsr.com LibraryHQ.com -

http://www.libraryhq.com/automation.html Library Journal - www.libraryjournal.com Library Technology Reports

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Additional Information – Institutions (selected) Pacific Lutheran University -

http://www.plu.edu/~libr/migration/home.html State University of New York -

http://olis.sysadm.suny.edu/sunyconnect2/lms.htm University of Michigan -

http://www.lib.umich.edu/libhome/staff/committee/lms Yale University -

http://www.library.yale.edu/orbis2/public/orbis2.htm