We use PastPerfect as well.  We ventured into putting database records online before they came out with Past Perfect Online.  We worked with our web developer who hired a programmer to design an xml database.  Past Perfect helped us develop a custom report that exports the desired records to an xml file.  Here is an example: http://www.historysanjose.org/cannerylife/collection/index.html.  We are very happy with it.  I would be happy to discuss working with the developer and programmer if you like. 

 

We are planning to use Past Perfect Online, but as more of a research tool.  We want to put our research library and photographs online this year so people can do some preliminary research before scheduling an appointment with our archivist.  We decided PP Online is the easiest and most economical to meet our needs.

 

Feel free to email me if you any questions.

 

--Melissa

 

Melissa Johnson

Curator of Interactive Media

history|san josé

 

From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Zickuhr, Kristine
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2008 7:01 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Online collections database

 

Hello everyone,

 

Our museum is moving towards hosting our collections database online in the near future.  We’re currently using Past Perfect for our collection software.  Past Perfect offers a product called Past Perfect Online, and we’ve participated as a tester for a new version, but we’ve been less than thrilled with the layout, features and user friendliness.  We’ve decided to take some time to evaluate alternatives.

 

Is anyone aware of other products or have you run across an online collection that impressed you?  Does anyone have experience with hiring an independent consultant to develop a custom product and, if so, can you comment on the process and possibly recommend someone? 

 

We could host from our own server or pay for hosting, depending on the situation.  We’re looking for a contemporary layout, straightforward search options, the ability to zoom in on photos and a few other basic features.  Our primary concern is that it’s easy and interesting for the public to use.  It wouldn’t hurt if it was easy and interesting for us to use too!

 

Thanks very much,

 

Kristine Zickuhr

Registrar

Wisconsin Veterans Museum

 

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