In introducing computers to the library, heavier emphasis is nowadays being put on planware than on hardware or software, though the last two are important.
The purpose of the present study is twofold: (1) to inquire into various problems of planwar...
In introducing computers to the library, heavier emphasis is nowadays being put on planware than on hardware or software, though the last two are important.
The purpose of the present study is twofold: (1) to inquire into various problems of planware which are considered vital factors for automation based on the past experiences on the computerizatin of domestic enterprises and of foreign libraies; (2) to help create a favorable environment and direction in planning the introduction of library computerization by presenting improved guiding principles for each of the factors to be considered.
The important results of the study are as follows:
1. In promoting library computerization, it will be desirable to design the total system with emphasis on catalog information.
2. The development of the project will encourage the librarian's eagerness for computerization and solve the problems of technical weaknesses by mutual cooperation of the libraries and outside technical institutions.
3. The ideal method of using computers is the joint-use method. For this method, a central coordinating organization should first be established for the coordination, design, and research of the computerization of each of the participating libraries.
4. It will be desirable and necessary for the personnel concerned to participate in the establishment of aims, and for the highest administrator to coordinate them ultimately.
5. At least two years in needed from the start of planning of computerization to the establishment of the computer system. More than three and a half years should not be excessive for the examination of the plan to switch over to the new system.
6. In deciding the priority of such selection criteria of pertinent services as cost, benefit, technical success, implementation success, and policy objective, the scores of the weight given for these criteria should be considered.
7. The analysis of the efficiency achieved should be judged on a longterm basis. The expected effect should not be judged only by short-sighted benefits or profits.
8. The project team should consist of full-time librarians who know the principles of EDP.
9. After selection of the desired computer, the computer team should control and manage the computerization process, and participate in the project development.
10 The introduction of computers to the library should not cause any problem to the morale of the personnel. It is necessary to educate the staff to know the operations, effects, and necessity of the new system.
Special efforts should be exercised to produce an agreeable atmosphere by educating the staff so the they can realize that the aim of computerization is not to curtail manpower but to increase the usefulness of the library system as a public and private service.