I realize that if you are able to receive e-mail then you have access to at
least some of the current technology, but for those who are using a friend's
computer while struggling on a 386 or 286 at work, consider the following:

On Wed. Aug. 7, 1996, Blair R. Martin was responding to a question about
Access database:

>Beyond that, you can use a simple flat-file database program: for
>example, Microsoft Works (installed in most Windows-base computers),
>ClarisWorks (my own favourite), or even an old-fashioned DOS-based
>program such as PC-File.  Did someone gasp? I know it's "obsolete", but
>it still works just as well as ever it did.  All of these are easier to
>learn and use than any of the big-time relational databases. Also, the
>data you collect in them can readily be transferred to a big-time
>product if that's ever necessary

I agree, having used several DOS-based flat-file database programs I like
them because I know how to use them.  Even if they don't do everything I
would like them to do, there is a lot to be said for a program that actually
works.

Having said that, there is also a lot to be said for a product that supports
current technical standards and that is supported by the company that wrote
it in the first place.  If you are using a program that is five years or
older, check to see that the latest version still supports it.  For
instance, I believe that Dbase III+ is the earliest version supported by the
current Dbase versions.  You should consider upgrading now, before the
company released their next upgrade and declares your version officially
obsolete and stops supporting it.  If you are using an off-the-shelf
program, the company that created it may no longer be in existance, also
making support and conversion difficult.  Also, look at the other programs
being used in your museum.  Chances are they are all of the same era, and
all facing obsolescence.

Having covered software, don't forget the hardware.  Chances are all your
old computers had 5.25" floppy drives.  New programs come almost exclusively
on 3.5" disks, and I know that our local computer place keeps the most
popular programs on CD-rom to speed up installation.  It seems obvious, but
don't forget that at least one computer should have all the drive types
being used in you institution so thay you can convert old data to new
formats.  This conversion isn't just for convenience.  You probably worked
with your floppies instead of keeping them under pristine storage
conditions, and -contrary to industry hype- that disk won't last forever,
and the data disappears even faster.

Enuf said, sorry about the long post.

Margaret Lyman
Curator of Collections
Silver City Museum -proud to say we just retired our last 286
SCMuseum@zianet