At Conner Prairie we are also starting to look at new collections management systems. Currently we use Argus for Windows and are considering upgrading to their new version called Argus. Our program has many abilities including searches on location, title, collection, source, object name and etc. We more often than not search under the object's name or location.
You do need to determine what you want to do with this system. Will you be tracking only 3D collections or are you planning to include your archive collection on the same program? Right now we only track our permanent collection, but we do plan to include our historic clothing (reproductions) collection in the next couple of years. Do you plan to have the public use the program?
Some of the questions I have learned to ask over the past few weeks are:
What are the support requirements of the program?
Must it have it's own server?
Who will convert the data?
Does the system print card catalogs? (Yes, we still use them)
Are other independent software systems required to operate certain functions? For example, does the report writer require Powerbuilder, Oracle, FilePro, etc.? (One of these is required for Argus) Also, are the imaging capabilites part of the program, or is it a separate software?
Can the worksheet/report layouts be customized or are they standard?
Is the lexicon/vocabulary based on Chenall's nomenclature?
Can the lexicon/vocabulary be customized or are they standard?
What are the costs per license/station?
Does the program have public access capabilities?
Will the program still be supported by the company in three, five years?
Who will handle technical problems you may have with the program?
What kinds of security does the system have?
What kinds of training are required? Who does the training? And, who will be trained?
I found that CHIN (Canadian Heritage Information Network) reviews collections management systems. For an annual fee you can access those reviews. Reviews include Argus/Questor, Past Perfect, Willoughby, and others. CP will soon be subscribing to this. They are at www.chin.gc.ca
I would also recommend visiting other institutions who are already automated, especially those who have similar collections and/or performing the kinds of functions you will be interested in. You are welcome to come to Conner Prairie to see our system. We are in Fishers IN if it's not too far for you.
Lana Newhart-Kellen
Registrar
Conner Prairie Museum
Fishers IN
>>> [log in to unmask] 10/31/01 09:59AM >>>
Greetings!
I am facing the daunting challenge of placing my museum's collection on
database and am wondering which program to use. We have around 7,000
pieces in our historic home including furniture, objects of art, and
everything else you might find in such a museum, such as the original
light fixtures, draperies, and other items. We want to access a piece
by number, by medium, by its location, etc. and have a photo and
various registration information on the page. I have heard pros and
cons for Filemaker and PastPerfect and am wondering what success any of
you have had with these or others. Any comments would be greatly
appreciated! Feel free to respond off-list. Thanks in advance!
Jennifer Lancaster
Curator/Archivist
Chinqua-Penn Plantation
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