Using digital asset management to improve archival reference requests
Abstract
This paper describes the implementation of a digital asset management database at the Diocese of Olympia’s archives. This project was initiated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and set out to improve reference services and find a long-term solution for managing digital files and assets. This paper discusses the steps taken and considerations for the archives’ needs in the planning prior to implementation. The paper also describes how, through the use of Preservica as a reference tool, response times have decreased. By making changes to how reference questions are noted, the Diocese of Olympia Archives can shift and evolve to meet user needs. The case study provides insights into how digital asset management can become an additional tool and provide a reference for managing a wide variety of files. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/
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Author's Biography
Erik R. Bauer is the archivist and records manager for the Diocese of Olympia, where he is responsible for overseeing the archives and records management programme. As well as managing the digital archiving initiatives for the Diocese, Erik also advises 97 congregations within the Diocese on best practices for managing archives and records retention. He holds an MA in humanities from Mount St. Mary’s University, Los Angeles, an MA in history from Salem State University, and an MLIS from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
