The beginning of August saw the successful launch of two new major upgrades to Library Services’ core systems which will help streamline library workflows and improve efficiency.
The Aleph library management system was upgraded to a new software-as-a-service application called Alma, which combines the acquisition, cataloguing and circulation of both physical and electronic library items into a single service. While the majority of this functionality is used by library staff, the system does effect library users every time they loan or request a book or read an article online.
The second upgrade was to FindIt@Bham which includes a redesigned, responsive interface which is available for desktops, tablets and phones. This was a more visible change for end users and balances new functionality and an improved look and feel with a familiar search process for returning staff and students.
Biggest challenge
The task of upgrading such critical systems was challenging, in both minimising the disruption to staff and users – which was limited to a reduced service for a single weekend – and in the integration with other library systems, including those for self-issue, reading lists, library mapping and physical access to the library buildings.
The centralisation of library data into a unified service which makes it accessible by both analytics and API allows for more flexible management information and offers new possibilities for service development.
Collaborative effort
The project was led by a core group of staff from Application Services, Business Analysis, the Project Office and Library Services. The successful launch was the result of a process that began over 12 months earlier with the testing of the redesigned FindIt@Bham. Participation increased from the start of 2018 in line with an implementation schedule led by our suppliers, ExLibris, and their use of Basecamp for effective collaboration and issue resolution.
Library Services engagement was vital to the success of the project: they implemented a change management initiative with External Consultant, existing library teams led the communication with users, and training was made possible by working with a team of Functional Experts within the Library who cascaded their expertise and will be central to the ongoing support strategy.
The key drivers for this project was to streamline library workflows, improve efficiency and to provide a new interface – all of which helped to support the opening of the Dubai Campus.
