Choosing Software for a Digital Library

This article aims to outline steps for the inexperienced, including both internal and external considerations, to ensure informed choices when selecting digital library software.

The paper takes a step‐by‐step approach in how to choose the correct software for a specific library application; and then how to test it and cost out the project.

The choice of delivery software for digital libraries impacts usability, interoperability, support costs, and the ability to migrate materials over time. Intelligent selection requires careful assessment of internal needs and resources, as well as careful assessment of the options. Other considerations may be preferences related to the goals of your library, such as support of metadata standards, interoperability with other systems, and additional functionality.

If user and client needs are not weighed, the outcome will be a tremendous disappointment. In addition, failure to consider the hardware and personnel support necessary can spell disaster.

A clear and concise step‐by‐step approach to project management from assessment of requirements to purchase decision.