Careful Considerations

Abstract

Libraries attempting to undertake large-scale start-up digitization projects with grant funding face a number of technical and planning issues from the outset. The Temple University Libraries, having recently completed the first year of such a project, gained valuable insights and experience regarding the implementation and management of such projects. Among the key issues identified in this article are defining the scope and limitations of a project, developing production standards for image format and resolution, constructing file-naming conventions, creating and selecting when to use visible watermarks, and deciding the type and amount of specialized equipment to purchase. Issues concerning environment and staffing are also presented, especially strategies for developing reliable and productive workers out of part-time student staff. The issue of quality control is also a major concern that contains many individual aspects, such as standardized documentation, process tracking and statistics, and the need for a project management layer to oversee day-to-day operations. This article suggests that project planners should also consider presentations and open meetings as a way to present their project to faculty and other interested parties. In addition, planners are encouraged to design strategies for measuring “outcomes” as a project evaluation method to be included in reports to the granting institution.