Use of Technology in Managing Electronic Resource Workflow

Abstract

Describes the electronic resource workflow and examines a solution devised at Cornell University for tracking electronic resources through this workflow. In its investigation of electronic resource workflow, Cornell University Library staff created a model showing that acquiring, deploying, and evaluating electronic resources is not nearly as simple a process as it was for traditional, print resources. Other libraries considering electronic resources may find that this model helps in thinking about the various steps encountered in working with electronic resources. Those libraries that have already identified a workfiow for electronic resources may find the Mantis solution developed by Cornell helpful in managing their workflow. Libraries may have developed other solutions to help manage electronic resource workflow, but Cornell has found that using Mantis, a free, open-source, Web-based bug-tracking system, has enabled its staff to effectively communicate with one another about electronic resources and keep abreast of the place of any particular resource in the electronic resource workflow. Adapted from the source document.