Libraries today frequently struggle with identifying the best strategy to maximize resources, systems and staff. As collections shift from print to electronic resources, the need for new ways to manage workflows becomes more critical. With the introduction of new web-scale management systems and the looming question of when to migrate away from the traditional ILS, librarians must determine how much automation is desired vs. required – and how to balance the value of technology and human interaction.
As library workflows are adjusted and streamlined, especially when implementing a new library management system, librarians face the challenge of automating and integrating the disparate steps through technology and determining how staff roles must evolve. What’s the best approach for determining which decisions should be made by the library system or librarian?
This session will explore intelligent workflows and examples from librarians with experience in transforming decision-making steps from the individual to technology. Anne Prestamo of Oklahoma State University will present the library’s work with automation of patron requests for new materials. Cyril Oberlander of SUNY Geneseo will discuss the GIST recommendation engine for buy vs. borrow decisions. Attendees will learn about the impacts, benefits, constraints and concerns associated with streamlined and unified workflows and automation of decision making.
Audience members will also have an opportunity to share their experiences and ideas for re-imagining workflows. In a world where rules-based systems can decide what to do, the challenge becomes how to leverage the business intelligence of the system, while capitalizing on the human expertise and ability to engage with users in a meaningful way that delivers value – and ultimately demonstrates how the two can work harmoniously.
Attendees will leave this session with a deeper understanding of the considerations, best practices for evaluation and insight to determine when and how to implement unmediated workflows.
