[MCN-L] Collections Link publishes Standards for Exchanging Exhibitions
MDA is pleased to announce the addition of a new section to the Collections Link website, the primary advice and information resource for collections managers in the UK. The Standards for Exchanging Exhibitions section is the first part of the Organise Displays and Exhibitions component. It has been developed for Collections Link by the Touring Exhibitions Group (TEG) having originally been commissioned by MLA as part of their programme to revise and update the Standards in the Museum Care of Collections series. It is a full revision of the 1995 publication 'Standards for Touring Exhibitions,' which is now presented as a series of interactive pages aimed at the key players in any exhibition exchange - the owner, the organiser and the venue. It is supported by comprehensive guidelines and notes, and has links to the TEG Handbook. Sarah Champion, TEG Chair and CEO of the Chinese Arts Centre in Manchester, commented, 'The Touring Exhibitions Group very much welcomes the publication of the updated Standards for Exchanging Exhibitions under the Collections Link banner. Ten years ago, at the time that we were editing our first Manual of Good Practice, we worked closely with the Museums and Galleries Commission on the original Standards for Travelling Exhibitions. When we revised the Manual into the new online Handbook, we jumped at the chance of continuing this close relationship with an input into the revised Standard. We look forward to working with MDA on the further development of Collections Link.' The publication of the Standards has already been welcomed by collections practitioners. Rachael Rogers, Curator at Abergavenny Museum commented, 'This is a wonderful resource. The system of easy to digest information, followed by more detailed guidance makes finding out about issues affecting our museum quick and straightforward. The Standards offer really useful advice and the way they are laid out according to organiser, lender and venue means that you can dip in and out of them to find very specific information.' Access the Organise Exhibitions section of the Collections Link website at: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/organise_exhibitions *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Netherlands and Belgium Adopt SPECTRUM Standard
Dear All, MDA, the focus for standards and best practice in Collections Management, has successfully concluded negotiations with Government culture bodies in the Netherlands and Belgium to export SPECTRUM, the UK industry standard for information management. Already in use in over 3,000 culture-sector organisations worldwide, SPECTRUM is an open standard, maintained and developed as part of MDA's ongoing mission to promote best practice in the heritage sector. The adoption of SPECTRUM will help Dutch and Belgian museums manage their knowledge and information more effectively, as well as supporting greater mobility of collections between the Netherlands, Belgium and the UK. MDA Director Nick Poole commented, 'This is a significant step forward for standards within Europe, and this development represents the culmination of almost 2 years work by the staff at MDA. Common standards not only promote best practice, they also provide us with a shared language which supports greater partnership. Museums in the Netherlands and Belgium already have significant expertise in the areas of knowledge and information management, and we all stand to benefit as a whole by working together to common standards.' Wilbert Helmus of the State Department for Cultural Heritage commented, 'Dutch and Belgian museums have long been committed to the principles of SPECTRUM. Our museums contain some of the world's most diverse and exciting collections, and this agreement provides us with a solid foundation on which to build. We are very pleased to be working with MDA and we look forward to an exciting partnership in future!' Licenses were signed between MDA, the Netherlands Museum Advisors Foundation and Culturele Biografie Vlaanderen vzw. Under the terms of this new agreement, representative organisations in the UK, Netherlands and Belgium will form part of a European Documentation Standards Development Community. Each national version of SPECTRUM will be linked to the UK standard on an ongoing basis and future updates will be cascaded to each participating country. MDA will be working with CIDOC, the documentation Special Interest Group of the International Council for Museums, to identify further partner states within Europe. Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Revised SPECTRUM Information Management Standard Now Available
MDA (Museum Documentation Association) announces the publication of a revised version of SPECTRUM, the UK and international industry standard for collections documentation and information management. The new version (SPECTRUM 3.1) has been updated to reflect current best practice in the heritage sector and recent changes in legislation, representing a significant revision to the third edition, published in 2005. The revision has been published using XML technology, enabling it to be made available in a variety of formats. New key features include the integration of relevant parts of MLA London and MDA's joint initiative, Revisiting Collections. This is a new approach to collections information which helps museums to create services and exhibitions for diverse audiences. The revision also includes material to support the Department for Culture, Media and Sport's Cultural Property Unit guidelines due diligence in combating illicit trade. MDA Director Nick Poole commented; SPECTRUM has to keep pace with the growing needs of museum professionals, particularly as they are required to manage increasingly sophisticated services. As an open standard produced in partnership with the community, SPECTRUM is ideally positioned not only to meet these challenges but also to lay the foundations for future development. This latest edition incorporates new ideas such as the need to capture knowledge and information from diverse museum audiences as part of our systems. Future developments will see SPECTRUM fulfilling its role as a mechanism for exchanging information between museums, both within the UK and throughout Europe. SPECTRUM is available FREE for non-commercial use, and is being used by thousands of individuals and heritage organisations worldwide. Commercial use of SPECTRUM is only available to MDA Partners, see: http://www.mda.org.uk/memp.htm The standard, which has been developed to represent consensus by museum practitioners, is designed to underpin the requirements of the Museum, Library and Archive Council's (MLA) Accreditation Scheme. HOW TO OBTAIN SPECTRUM 3.1 - Licensees of previous version of SPECTRUM DO NOT have to apply for a new license. Where you supplied an e-mail address MDA has sent you an e-mail detailing how to download the updated standard. If you have not had an e-mail please contact Gordon McKenna (gordon at mda.org.uk). For new licencees, the revised version of the standard is available to download from: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm (after you fill in the license form) *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Computer systems for a new museum
Amanda, Software for Collections Management: Here in the UK MDA is often asked the question Which collections management system should I buy?. What we generally say that is not possible to give a simple answer and advise them to make their decision based on a number of different factors: * How much money do you have to spend? One thing to note is that the number of objects being managed is not an issue for price. * What do you want the system to do? For example does the system enable web publication. * What do others say about a system? You are doing that here, but do not hesitate to ask for a reference from a system vendor, specifically for your type of museum, if possible. * Does a system support standards? These could be ICT technical standards, but key here is support of museum information management standards. For example MDA publishes a information management standard, SPECTRUM, which many systems vendors used to design their systems. The standard is now free to download and use non-commercially: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm We have over 3,000 licences for SPECTRUM worldwide (about 250 in the USA), and have just signed an agreement for translation and localisation in the Netherlands and Flanders (Belgium). Since 2005 we have run an MDA Partner scheme for those who wish to use SPECTRUM commercially and to have the opportunity to have their systems validated against the standards. Information about these MDA Partners' systems can be found at: http://www.mda.org.uk/software.htm Hope this is of help Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Collections Link News
Dear Colleagues The new edition of Collections Link News is now available to view and download from the Collections Link website at: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/news/002842.html Stories include: * Collections Link wins international award * Is copyright fit for the digital age? * Libraries and Archives on Collections Link By visiting the website you can also sign up to receive your free Collections Link pack. And if you have questions about your collections, you can call the local rate Collections Link helpline on 0845 838 4000. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Standards in Collections Care Series Available Online
MDA is pleased to announce that Standards in Museum Care of Collections series are now available from the Collections Link website at: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/conserve_objects/standards_colls_car e The series was originally published in the 1990s by the Museums and Galleries Commission (MGC), now the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) and cover: * Archaeological Collections; * Biological Collections; * Geological Collections; * Larger and Working Objects; * Touring Exhibitions; * Photographic Collections; * Musical Instrument Collections; * Costume and Textile Collections. Updates to those on Geological Collections (ed. Mick Stanley, 2004), and Musical Instruments (ed.Patricia Andrew, 2005) replace the earlier versions. Both standards were revised to reflect changes in current best practice, legislation and health and safety regulations. They are equally applicable to small local collections or national museums with a huge variety and number of objects. They include advice on a wide range of curatorial tasks from conservation, disaster planning and environmental control to access, loans and research, and include sections linking to sources of further advice and information. Peter Winsor, Collections Link Project Director, commented: The Standards in the Museum Care of Collections series is still widely regarded as the best source of information on the conservation and care of different types of collection. We are delighted to be able to make these revisions available via Collections Link, and it is hoped that revisions of other publications in the series will follow. The revised standards join a range of new resources on the website. Also recently added is a section on Emergency Planning highlighting resources from outside the cultural sector: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/plan_for_emergencies and the London Screen Archives guide to caring for moving image collections: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/special_collection/photo_film Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Condition Assessment Tool Online Now
MDA announces the publication of the Condition Assessment Tool (CAT) on the Collections Link website at: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/conserve_objects/cat The CAT is a downloadable database developed by the Scottish Museums Council (SMC), designed to enable heritage organisations to record information about the condition of objects in their collections and prioritise conservation work or improve collection care. SMC's user guidance notes and a comprehensive set of supporting fact sheets are also available to download alongside the database. The CAT was designed to be used by people with a wide variety of experience and skills, and who work with all types of collections, from local community museums to professional conservation teams in a large service. Once downloaded, users are able to adapt the database to ensure that it suits the specific needs of their own organisation and collections. Gill Findlay, Collections Development Manager at SMC, commented, Museums in Scotland have already found the Condition Assessment Tool to be an extremely effective and easy to use resource which helps them to achieve best practice in the care of their collections. We are delighted to be working with Collections Link to make it available to the wider heritage community. Peter Winsor, Collections Link Project Director, commented, The CAT database is an important addition to the range of conservation and collections care resources already available through Collections Link. It complements the [Benchmarks in Collection Care] assessment tool that is also available as a download from the website, and will be invaluable to collections managers planning the long-term care of their collections. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 MDA (Europe) Ltd, Company Registration No: 1300565 *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Collect: The Collections Management Exhibition
Collect: The Collections Management Exhibition Date:27 September 2007 Time:10.00am - 4.00pm Venue: Wellcome Collection Conference Centre, Euston Road, London Price: Free Collect: The Collections Management Exhibition is a free national trade fair highlighting the best in current practice, services and technologies for collections management. The day will give you the chance to meet and talk with leading suppliers and vendors and find out about latest developments. It will also be an opportunity to meet and network with fellow museum, library and archive professionals and discuss current issues. The event is taking place under the banner of Collections Link, the award-winning national advisory service for collections management managed by MDA in partnership with the Institute of Conservation and the National Preservation Office. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Collect is for anyone who works with a collection. Target audiences include: * Curators * Collections Managers * Archivists * Librarians * Conservators * Information Managers * Heads of Service WHO WILL BE THERE? The event will feature a trade fair including some of the sector's leading providers of services and systems. These include collections management system vendors, providers of legal services and other information brokers. HOW DO I BOOK? Attendance is completely free of charge, but we do need to ask you to register as a delegate. For further information and to reserve your place, please visit: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/collect *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 MDA (Europe) Ltd: Company Registration No: 1300565 *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] MDA Publishes Terminology White Papers
MDA has announced the publication of two new white papers highlighting the importance of terminology issues in the management and use of museum collections. Terminology for Museum Managers details the strategic benefits of using standardised terminologies and describes how this can support knowledge sharing within the heritage community. Such benefits include: * The ability to retrieve information quickly and simply * A standards-compliant approach which supports applications for Museum Accreditation * Better-managed intellectual property leading to greater opportunities for commercial activity * Enhanced ability to publish information and make collections visible online Terminology for Museum Staff sets out how the use of standardised terminologies can aid the work of museum staff such as conservators, education officers, volunteers and front of house staff, by improving the flow of information between areas of curatorial expertise and departments. Gordon McKenna, MDA Standards and Systems Manager, commented, 'These new resources have been designed to give museum documentation specialists the tools they need to persuade their managers and other colleagues of the importance and usefulness of terminology in achieving national standards in information management.' The white papers have been published as part of SPECTRUM Terminology, MDA's free online service, which also contains guidance on creating thesauri, alongside a number of existing standard terminologies and general information on the use of terminology for museums. For further information about SPECTRUM Terminology, and to view the white papers, visit: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum-terminology/termess.htm *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Queries: survey/accessibility test
Lorna, You might like to have a look at: PAS 78: a guide to good practice in commissioning accessible websites This is for those responsible for commissioning or maintaining public-facing websites and web-based services. It was developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and sponsored by the DRC [Disability Rights Commision]. The document is free, once you have filled out the form. Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Queries: survey/accessibility test
Mea Culpa! Here's the web address: http://www.drc-gb.org/library/website_accessibility_guidance.aspx Gordon *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Benchmarks in Collection Care Now Available on Collections Link Website
Apologies for cross-postings: MDA is delighted to announce that Benchmarks in Collection Care for Museums, Libraries and Archives is now available from the Collections Link website as an interactive database. Benchmarks in Collection Care is a self-assessment checklist to help collections holders evaluate how well they are caring for their collections, to give an indication of where and what improvements might be needed, and to provide a practical framework for measuring improvement. Peter Winsor, Collections Link Project Director, commented, 'The publication of Benchmarks in Collection Care is one of the most significant additions to Collections Link since the service was launched earlier this year. The site is the only place where practitioners can find the original document, along with a simple Word version of the checklist and the interactive Access database version - making this a much more flexible, user-friendly resource.' The scheme uses three practice levels, Basic, Good and Best, to evaluate the quality of practice in nine broad categories, including storage, conservation, environmental monitoring and control, and emergency preparedness. Benchmarks is simple to use by institutions of any size. Possible reasons for completing an assessment include: * To develop a forward plan * As preparatory work for an application for a development grant * To make a case for additional resources from a governing body * As part of an application to MLA for Designated Collection status Benchmarks in Collection Care is one of a range of resources added to the Collections Link service in recent months, alongside the new Accreditation Resource Directory and the Standards in Museum Care of Collections series. To download Benchmarks in Collection Care, please visit: http://www.collectionslink.org.uk/collections_care *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] Museum Policy
Somsak, Although not policy-specific, you might like to look at SPECTRUM, The UK Documentation Standard. This will provide you with a set of 21 procedures which take place in museums and defines the sort of information you should be recording. It is free, for non-commercial use, from: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm Just fill in your details and agree to the licence. Gordon. On 26 Jul 2006 at 16:16, somsak wrote: From: somsak som...@book.co.th To: 'Museum Computer Network Listserv' mcn-l at mcn.edu Date sent: Wed, 26 Jul 2006 16:16:39 +0700 Subject:[MCN-L] Museum Policy Send reply to: Museum Computer Network Listserv mcn-l at mcn.edu mailto:mcn-l-request at mcn.edu?subject=unsubscribe mailto:mcn-l-request at mcn.edu?subject=subscribe Dear All MCN-L Members, We are a newly established central bank museum, focusing on bank notes, coins, and economic related items. The new museum needs a lot more developments and efforts to make it be a real 'small size museum with proper management. One of our weak point is that the lacking of professional staff to run the museum. As a central bank staff with minimum training and workshop in museum management, can perform those tasks in some ways, but not as good. We are planning for our museum policy in 2006, but till date, we have no proper way and solution to do so. May I ask if anyone out there, who have or take care of, preparing museum policy, not only IT related, but general museum policy, please suggest or give me advice. All ideas and advices are highly appreciated. Mr Somsak Vichean Bank of Thailand Museum ___ You are currently subscribed to mcn-l, the listserv of the Museum Computer Network (http://www.mcn.edu) To post to this list, send messages to: mcn-l at mcn.edu To unsubscribe or change mcn-l delivery options visit: http://toronto.mediatrope.com/mailman/listinfo/mcn-l *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
[MCN-L] [IT SIG:] Collections Management Software
Jessica, Check out the Software Survey pages of the MDA website for some basic information about the various packages on offer. See: http://www.mda.org.uk/software.htm Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gordon at mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/
mda Conference - Pre-Conference Workshops
Dear All, Details of this year's mda pre-conference workshops can be found on our website: http://www.mda.org.uk/conference2003/workshop.htm Workshop topics are: 1. Collections Level Description 2. Quality Assurance for Museum Web Sites 3. Copyright and Collections 4. Creating Creative Content 5. Writing for the Web Workshops 1-4 are whole day, Workshop 5 half-day. All workshops take place on Tuesday 9 September and are separate from the main conference. They take place at the West Downs Centre, King Alfred's College, Winchester, Hampshire, UK and are run concurrently. Apologies for cross-posting. Gordon McKenna. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk mda The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre Purbeck Road Tel:+44 1223 415760 Cambridge CB2 2PD, UKFax:+44 1223 415960 Supporting the management and use of collections Visit our Prototype Portal - Your First Stop for Information http://www.casportal.org.uk *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
Re: SPECTRUM metadata material
Yan, You wrote: Here is the link http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm SPECTRUM is used by UK museums. I am willing to buy one, but at least I want to look at the material before I buy. SPECTRUM is available both in paper form and electronically as a Windows Help file (SPECTRUM Interactive). We have a free demo version of the Interactive. Anybody wanting one can contact me. I have sent one to you directly. Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk mda The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre Purbeck Road Tel:+44 1223 415760 Cambridge CB2 2PD, UKFax:+44 1223 415960 Supporting the management and use of collections Visit our Prototype Portal - Your First Stop for Information http://www.casportal.org.uk *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
mda Conference Details
Apologies for cross posting. This year's mda conference - 22-24 September in Durham, England - is titled: Valuing Practise. For full details see: http://www.mda.org.uk/conference2004/ In addition to the main conference we are also offering pre- conference workshops on the 21st September. These are: 1. Plan It, Copy Right: The benefits of developing strategies for rights clearances and copyright risk assessments; 2. Creativity, Learning and New Media; 3. Getting the concept: A beginners guide to data modelling and the CRM; 4. User Friendly Websites: How to make exploring your collections easier; 5. It's not about the System ... [collection management systems]. For full details see: http://www.mda.org.uk/conference2004/workshop.htm Also it's not too late to submit a poster at the conference: http://www.mda.org.uk/conference2004/posters.htm Gordon McKenna. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk mda The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre Purbeck Road Tel:+44 1223 415760 Cambridge CB2 2PD, UKFax:+44 1223 415960 Supporting the management and use of collections Have you booked your place yet for the 2004 mda conference Valuing Practice? See http://www.mda.org.uk/conference2004 *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
mda welcomes new Director
Apologies for crosspostings mda has appointed Nick Poole as its new Director. Mike Houlihan, Chair of mda said: mda is delighted that Nick will be joining the team in September. His passion and enthusiasm for objects, combined with his professional expertise and experience in collections management will be key to reinforcing all that has been achieved at mda and towards providing the leadership which will be vital for a successful future. Nick Poole commented, mda is one of the sector's most valuable assets, providing a unique focus for expertise and innovation in information and collections management. I am very pleased to have been given the opportunity to lead the organisation into the next phase of its history. I look forward to bringing to the role my passion for collections and my commitment to their preservation, management and use as well as my experience in technology, copyright and digital content. Before his new appointment Nick was Regional Policy Adviser at the Museums Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) where his responsibilities involved working with the English Regional Agencies to promote the interests of museums, archives and libraries at regional level. Between 1999 and 2003 Nick was ICT Adviser at Resource: The Council for Museums, Archives and Libraries (which changed its name to MLA in February 2004). In his new role, Nick will address the recommendations of the review commissioned by MLA, with particular attention to the business and strategic planning which will define a three year funding agreement with MLA from 2005. Nick s first public appearance as Director will be at mda s 2004 Conference, Valuing Practice, taking place in Durham between 22 and 24 September. Further details are available at www.mda.org.uk/conference2004 *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk mda The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre Purbeck Road Tel:+44 1223 415760 Cambridge CB2 2PD, UKFax:+44 1223 415960 Supporting the management and use of collections Have you booked your place yet for the 2004 mda conference Valuing Practice? See http://www.mda.org.uk/conference2004 *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
Twentieth Annual CHArt Conference, London, UK
Apologies for cross-posting: The Twentieth Annual CHArt Conference: FUTURES PAST: TWENTY YEARS OF ARTS COMPUTING will be held at Birkbeck College, London on 11 12 November 2004. Details of the programme are given below. The booking form is available online on www.chart.ac.uk PROGRAMME CHArt Twentieth Annual Conference FUTURES PAST: TWENTY YEARS OF ARTS COMPUTING Thursday 11 Friday 12 November 2004 Clore Management Centre, Birkbeck, University of London, 25 27 Torrington Square, WC1E 7HX. Since its foundation in 1985 CHArt has closely followed the extraordinary developments in arts computing that have taken place over nearly two decades. This year, for the twentieth CHArt conference we will look back at the history of the application of digital technology to art history, visual culture, the museum and gallery, and art practice. Papers will reflect upon successes, failures, and futures past. KEYNOTE ADDRESS Futures Past and Present William Vaughan, Chair of CHArt 1985 2002 THURSDAY 11 NOVEMBER SESSION 1 EXPERIMENTAL INTEGRATION Sandra Kaji O'Grady, Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, The University of Melbourne, Australia. Listing: Conceptual Art, Computers and Architecture in the 1970s. Catherine Mason, CACHe Project, Birkbeck, University of London, UK. A Computer in the Art Room. SESSION 2 TRANSITIONS Andrew Hershberger, Bowling Green State University, Ohio, USA. The Medium Was the Method: Photography and Iconography at the Index of Christian Art. Colum Hourihane, Index of Christian Art, Princeton University, New Jersey, USA. Facing the Future through the Past at the Index of Christian Art. SESSION 3 PAINTING BY PIXEL James Faure Walker, London, UK. Painting Digital, and Letting Go. Ann Sophie Lehmann, Institute for Media and Re/presentation, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands. 1300 brushes The History of the Computer as Painting Machine. SESSION 4 METHODS AND PRACTICE Pierre R. Auboiron, Panthéon Sorbonne University, Paris, France. Indexed Lights. Matthias Weiss, Dortmund, Germany. Microanalysis as a Means to Mediate Digital Arts. FRIDAY 12 NOVEMBER SESSION 5 HISTORIES, FAILURES AND RESURGENCE Nick Lambert, CACHe, Birkbeck, University of London, UK. Recursive History: Assembling a Digital Archive of Computer Art's Early Years. Jennifer Gabrys, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Machines Fall Apart: Failure and Collapse in Art and Technology. Wayne Clements, Chelsea College of Art and Design, London, UK Computer Poetry's Neglected Debut. SESSION 6 VIRTUAL DEPARTURES Mike Pringle, AHDS Visual Arts, Surrey Institute of Art and Design, UK. A Virtual Disaster: the Rise and Fall of Virtual Reality. Kirk Martinez, Department of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, UK. Title to be confirmed. SESSION 7 PROJECTS AND ARCHIVES Christine L. Sundt, Visual Resources Collection, Architecture Allied Arts Library, University of Oregon, USA. Digital Projects Past and Present: Survivors or Fossils? Sian Everitt, Keeper of Archives and Collections BIAD, University of Central England, Birmingham, UK. The Good, the Bad and the Accessible: 30 Years of Using New Technologies in BIAD Archives. SESSION 8 COLLECTIONS AND DISSEMINATION Vickie O'Riordan, University of California, San Diego, USA. This is the Modern World: Collaborating with ARTstor. Melanie Rowntree, Victoria and Albert Museum, London, UK. Successes and Failures of Content Creation in Web Beginnings at the Victoria and Albert Museum. DEMONSTRATIONS TO BE ANNOUNCED BOOKING The booking form is available online on www.chart.ac.uk. Bookings made before 15 October 2004 will be entitled to a discount. Conference Fees (pounds sterling) include coffee/tea breaks and lunch. CHArt Member: TWO DAYS £90 (£70 before 15 Oct 2004) ONE DAY £50 (£40 before 15 Oct 2004) Non member: TWO DAYS £120 (£100 before 15 Oct 2004) ONE DAY £70 (£60 before 15 Oct 2004) CHArt Student Member: TWO DAYS £60 (£40 before 15 Oct 2004) ONE DAY £30 (£20 before 15 Oct 2004) Student Non member: TWO DAYS £70 (£50 before 15 Oct 2004) ONE DAY £35 (£25 before 15 Oct 2004) Send bookings to: CHArt, School of History of Art, Film and Visual Media, Birkbeck College, 43 Gordon Square, Bloomsbury, London, WC1H 0PD. confere...@chart.ac.uk, Fax +44 0207 631 6107. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk mda The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre Purbeck Road Tel:+44 1223 415760 Cambridge CB2 2PD, UKFax:+44 1223 415960 *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
Revised MDA Standard Now Available
Dear All, MDA is pleased to announce the availability of the revised version our documentation standard SPECTRUM. It available to download, free for non-commercial use, from our website. Please go to: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm This page is a form to sign up for the non-commercial licence, either for an organisation or an individual. I encourage you to look at the licence before you download. Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
MDA Collections News - New Edition
Appologies for Cross-postings Dear Colleague The new edition of Collections News is now available to view and download from the MDA website at: http://www.mda.org.uk/colnews.pdf [900K] Stories include: * Focus on Collection * Take my advice... * New SPECTRUM - a hit around the world Don't forget to download the revised version of SPECTRUM at http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm Also check out our training programmme at http://www.mda.org.uk/trainpro.htm Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
MDA Launches Online Forum
MDA, the UK's lead organisation in the management of information about museum collections has launched a free online Forum to help museum professionals find information and share expertise. Accessible through the MDA website at: http://www.mda.org.uk/forum.htm the Forum enables museum staff to ask questions, discuss current issues and find out more about the work of MDA. The Forum is free to use, although new users are required to register. Discussions are reviewed regularly by MDA's network of information management specialists, who are able to answer queries and make constructive suggestions. Topics covered by the Forum include general documentation, the SPECTRUM standard, Museum Accreditation and Copyright. There is also a members-only section which provides direct access to MDA experts through the AdvicePoint advisory service. The Forum will also host discussions relating to MDA's 'Collections for All' campaign: http://www.collectionsforall.org.uk Forum users are able to access information about the latest documentation-related jobs and tenders through the relevant section. Nick Poole, MDA Director, commented: MDA is committed to providing timely and authoritative advice to busy museum professionals. The Forum is one of a number of ways in which we are reaching out to the sector, to ensure that people can get the right answer when they need it, how they need it. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
MDA Wins Contract to Develop Collections Description Manual
Apologies for cross-postings MDA, the UK's lead organisation in the management of information about collections has been awarded a contract by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) to develop a Collections Description Manual for MICHAEL, a project which will create the first multilingual inventory of collections in museums, libraries and archives across Europe. MLA is the UK partner in the European MICHAEL consortium, which also includes representatives from France and Italy. In the UK, MLA has been working to develop the Collections Description Service, a unique set of tools which will draw together descriptions of physical and digital collections. MDA has been commissioned by MLA to support MICHAEL and the Collections Description Service by creating a manual for culture- sector professionals who will be creating descriptions of their collections. The manual will be launched in October 2005 as an online browsable resource providing guidance and case studies illustrating best practice in describing collections. Kate Fernie, ICT Adviser: EU Projects at MLA commented: MICHAEL is a ground-breaking project, which will open up worldwide access to our shared European cultural heritage. MDA has experience in helping cultural organisations get to grips with standards and new technologies. They were a natural choice to develop the manual to support MICHAEL. Nick Poole, MDA Director, commented: In recent years, digitisation initiatives have supported the creation of millions of digital versions of objects, documents and artefacts across Europe. MICHAEL and the Collections Description Service have a vital role to play in ensuring these resources are available to all. MDA is very excited to have the opportunity to use our skills and experience to support the sector in realising this potential. Further information about MICHAEL is available from: http://www.michael-culture.org/project.html *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
MDA Launches Award-winning Labelling and Marking Training Film
Apologies for cross-postings: MDA has announced the launch of its new short training film on labelling and marking museum objects. Making Your Mark has been made in consultation with museum curators and conservators and illustrates up to date labelling and marking techniques as well as containing essential health and safety information. The film provides close-up demonstrations of techniques for labelling and marking different kinds of objects, and addresses the need for a clear demonstration of current best practice in this important area. Object types discussed in the film include: *Coins; *Textiles; *Ceramics; *Natural history specimens; *Paper and photographs. Nick Poole, MDA Director, commented, The labelling and marking of museum objects is the essential first step in ensuring that they are managed effectively. Museum professionals need to know how to mark the objects in their care in a way that is non-destructive and reversible. This film highlights the importance of labelling and making in the context of wider collections management issues. Making your Mark was produced by Nick Fishwick, a Cambridge University student seconded to MDA through the STEP Programme, a UK- wide initiative offering undergraduates project-based work in small and medium sized companies. The film has won the regional STEP award in a field of over 20 projects in small and medium enterprises throughout Cambridgeshire and MDA would like to congratulate Nick on the innovative approach he took to the project. Making Your Mark will be shown as part of all MDA documentation training courses. It is also available to buy for: 27.50 UKP for MDA members or 37.00 UKP for non-members. To order a copy, please email ord...@mda.org.uk stating whether you require DVD or VHS (PAL) format. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
CIDOC annual meeting 2006, Gothenburg Sweden; First Call
Apologies for cross-postings *Wider perspective - broader base* CIDOC annual meeting 2006 Gothenburg , Sweden First Call - Call for papers The CIDOC annual meeting and conference 2006 will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden, September 10-14 2006, in the localities of The Museum of World Culture and nearby venues. Invitation and further info at: http://cidoc06.se CIDOC is the international focus for the documentation interests of museums and related organizations - an international committee of ICOM - International Council of Museums The conference themes enlighten the fact that more and more efforts are taken in the field of cross border cooperation and the focus on standardisation from outside the traditional museum sector. At the same time as other organisations and users looks at museums we also have to look at the knowledge management movements outside museums and to collaborate between sectors as natural and cultural heritage. Aspects as fighting illicit traffic with heritage objects and bringing intangible heritage knowledge to future needs, amongst others, also form a challenge for the documentation systems. We also would like to enforce the museology and information science researchers to study the standardisation evolution within the museum field. Opening for a broader knowledge of CIDOC and the CIDOC work we hope to gain a stronger adoption in everyday work in museums, and a more active partaking in future CIDOC activities. We welcome and encourage - together with the established experts - students, young professionals and curators coming from the universities and not earlier represented museums around the world, to take part in the conference as delegates - and to become members of the CIDOC. See more information on the conference at - http://cidoc06.se CIDOC and ICOM Web Sites - http://cidoc.icom.museum - http://icom.museum Welcome For the organizing committee Anne Murray Bengt Wittgren Hans Rengman *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
Re: Copyright from a practical perspective
Dear List Members, In the UK we have the Museum Copyright Group: http://www.museumscopyright.org.uk I declare an interest as MDA is both on the executive committee of the group and hosts its website. MDA also provides training in IPR from a museum perspective: http://www.mda.org.uk/copyess.htm and http://www.mda.org.uk/licess.htm Finally MDA's SPECTRUM documentation standard has a procedure for dealing with rights management: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
Re: subject keyword searching in CMS and DAMS
Members of the list, You might like to consider a glance at Iconclass a subject specific international classification system for iconographic research and the documentation of images. See: http://www.iconclass.nl It uses the following 'main divisions': 0 Abstract, Non-representational Art 1 Religion and Magic 2 Nature 3 Human being, Man in general 4 Society, Civilization, Culture 5 Abstract Ideas and Concepts 6 History 7 Bible 8 Literature 9 Classical Mythology and Ancient History I'm not associated with Iconclass. I'm just aware of its existence. Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
System Simulation Joins the MDA Partners Scheme
Apologies for cross-postings PRESS RELEASE System Simulation Ltd (SSL), a leading provider of Collections Management systems and services for museums and heritage organisations, has become the latest organisation to join the innovative new MDA Partners Scheme. MDA is the UK's lead organisation for the documentation and management of information about collections. As an MDA Partner, System Simulation is set to be one of the first companies whose products and services will be validated for compliance with SPECTRUM, the industry standard for information and knowledge management. SPECTRUM Compliance is a requirement of the Museum Accreditation Scheme, administered by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA). Through the MDA Partners Scheme, heritage organisations can be confident that the systems they are procuring represent the very latest in best practice in collections management. Nick Poole, MDA Director, commented, I am delighted to welcome System Simulation as a member of the MDA Partners Scheme. The Scheme is an important new development in our relationship with private- sector suppliers. System Simulation has a long-standing commitment to working with MDA to deliver high-quality, standards-compliant systems. We look forward to working in partnership with SSL to realise the potential of heritage collections. Mike Coyne, Managing Director, SSL, commented, We see our new partnership with MDA as a key element in our future systems development. It will help us to continue to support the highest standards in collections management and to deliver new and exciting ways of utilising cultural resources for increasingly wide social and economic purposes. We are very pleased to be one of the founding members of the Scheme. Notes to Editors MDA is the UK's lead organisation in documentation and the management of information about collections. Our work is driven by a Vision of a sector in which collections are managed efficiently, effectively and in accordance with national standards to deliver inspiring, engaging and accessible services for users. The MDA Partners Scheme is open to service providers and suppliers who produce systems based on the SPECTRUM standard. For further information about the Scheme, visit http://www.mda.org.uk or contact Gordon McKenna at gor...@mda.org.uk. MDA is funded by the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) and the Scottish Museums Council (SMC). *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
Re: Cataloguing photographic objects
Kate Muirhead wrote: I would be interested to hear how other museums tackle the issue of cataloguing photographs. One particular issue we have been debating is whether Production Place is where the photograph or film was taken (exposed), or whether it should refer to where it was developed, or printed, or where the media was manufactured, etc. We are trying to come up with a consistent way to approach this. Our database allows us to record multiple places, but not to link these with the various operations which could have occurred at different places. I think most people would primarily record where the photograph was taken as this would be the place and time where the intellectual content was created. However it is possible to conceive of situations where you might want to record the other production events. Obviously there are other objects which have multiple production events. Gordon. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
MDA Launches SPECTRUM Terminology
Apologies for Crosspostings 15 December - MDA has announced the launch of a new online service for terminology. Created in response to the sector-wide requirement for greater availability and co-ordination of standard terminologies, SPECTRUM Terminology is now available free on the MDA website at: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum-terminology/ Acting as a single point of access for information relating to terminology, SPECTRUM Terminology comprises the following sections: * Terminology Essentials - General information about terminology for museums. * Terminology Workshop - Guidance on creating thesauri. * Terminology Bank - A set of existing standard terminologies, including a facility to submit reviews. Gordon McKenna, MDA Standards and Systems Manager, commented, Enquirers to MDA's AdvicePoint service often ask us: 'Where can I find a terminology on ...?' With this in mind we are launching this new section of our popular website. It is an important development in our mission to be the UK's lead organisation on documentation and information management for museums. SPECTRUM Terminology supports the requirement of many SPECTRUM 'Units of Information' to maintain a list of standard terms, replacing and enhancing the wordHOARD section of the MDA website. SPECTRUM Terminology will develop over time, with a call due be issued shortly to the museum sector inviting them to submit existing terminologies for possible inclusion on the website. In addition, the MDA Forum will act as a point of discussion on terminology issues. For further information, see www.mda.org.uk/forum.htm Gordon McKenna. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
SPECTRUM Terminology - Call for Submissions
Apologies for crossposting Following the successful launch of SPECTRUM Terminology in December, MDA has issued a call for heritage practitioners to submit information on the terminologies they use in their daily work, including ones they have created themselves. SPECTRUM Terminology was created in response to the sector-wide demand for a single point of access for information relating to terminology, and supports the requirement of many SPECTRUM Units of Information to maintain a list of standard terms . The information submitted will be included in the Terminology Bank section of SPECTRUM Terminology to act as a resource for other practitioners. To submit a terminology, please visit: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum-terminology/subform.htm For further information, and to visit the SPECTRUM Terminology resource on the MDA website, please visit: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum-terminology/ *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ --- You are currently subscribed to mcn_mcn-l as: rlancefi...@mail.wesleyan.edu To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-mcn_mcn-l-12800...@listserver.americaneagle.com
MDA Codes Now Available Online
Apologies for cross-postings MDA has announced the launch of an online database of MDA Codes, its system of unique identifiers for UK collections- holding organisations and their collections. The database is available at: http://www.mda.org.uk/mdacodes/ The database currently holds c2500 MDA Codes for organisations throughout the UK, giving museum practitioners access to an invaluable resource for information sharing and collaboration. MDA has been maintaining the system of Codes for over 25 years, but the information has been made available online for the first time as part of MDA's ongoing commitment to maintaining documentation standards for UK museums. Nick Poole, MDA Director commented, As more museums share their information through online services, it is increasingly important to have a persistent way of identifying them. MDA Codes have been in use since the mid-70s and provide a simple way of achieving this. Making the Codes available as a searchable online database is another way in which MDA is working to make life easier for museum professionals. The database allows users to: * Browse for a Code by the name of its associated organisation * Browse for a Code by the location of its associated organisation * Search for Code information by organisation name, organisation location, or MDA Code * See a list of all the MDA Codes arranged by their associated organisations * See recent changes and additions to the database For further information about MDA Codes, or to enquire about obtaining an MDA Code for your organisation, please contact Gordon McKenna, Standards and Systems Manager on 01223 415760. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ You are currently subscribed to MCN-L, the listserv of the Museum Computer Network (www.mcn.edu). To post messages to this list, send emails to: mcn-l@mcn.edu To unsubscribe from this list, please send an email to mcn-unsubscr...@lists.mediatrope.com with any message. If you are receiving messages as they are posted and wish to change to daily digest format, send an email to listser...@lists.mediatrope.com with SET mcn-l DIGEST in the BODY of the message. If you are receiving messages in the daily digest format and wish to recieve them as they are posted, send an email to listser...@lists.mediatrope.com with SET mcn-l MAIL
SPECTRUM Information Standard Licenses Reach a Milestone
Apologies for cross-postings MDA has announced that it has granted its 1000th license in the UK to download the revised edition of SPECTRUM, the industry standard for museum practice and information management. The 1000th licensee is Brixham Heritage Museum in Devon, an independent community museum with an acclaimed maritime collection illustrating the history of the ancient town and fishing port. Its exhibitions on shipbuilding, sailing and smuggling have been praised for their innovative approach to recording and displaying community life. A registered museum since 1997, it is now among the Year 1 applicants for Accreditation in the South West region and hopes to qualify in April 2006. The revised edition of SPECTRUM was developed in collaboration with over 100 museum professionals, and was made freely-available as an open standard on the MDA website in April 2005. SPECTRUM is embedded in the documentation requirements of MLA's Museum Accreditation Standard, ensuring that every accredited museum has an accountable documentation system. Nick Poole, MDA Director, commented, Brixham is a great example of an independent museum which plays an important role both in its community and in the preservation of the national maritime heritage. SPECTRUM is designed to help museums like Brixham make the most of the potential of their collections. This is another important step in our mission to ensure that every museum in the UK has easy access to advice, training and guidance in achieving best practice. Dr. Philip Armitage, Curator at Brixham, commented, The provision for downloading free the revised SPECTRUM standard was very much welcomed by this small, independent - cash strapped - museum. At virtually negligible cost to us (other than printing ink/paper) we now have to hand a copy of what is the most comprehensive guide to documentation procedures and standards, which will allow us to identify and hopefully remedy any weaknesses or deficiencies in our existing documentation system. In addition to the UK downloads, hundreds of organisations from outside the UK have been licensed to use SPECTRUM, firmly establishing it as an international standard. The 1000th licensee overall was Cultuur Onder Dak Apeldoorn (Culture Under One Roof), which houses the municipal archives, museum and library of the town of Apeldoorn in the Netherlands. SPECTRUM can be downloaded free for non-commercial use from the MDA website at: http://www.mda.org.uk/spectrum.htm Hard copy print-outs are also available at a cost of 25 pounds for MDA members or 30 pounds for non-members. *** Gordon McKenna e-mail: gor...@mda.org.uk MDA The Spectrum Building, The Michael Young Centre, Purbeck Road Cambridge CB2 2PD, UK Tel:+44 1223 415760 Fax:+44 1223 415960 Setting the standard for managing collections information *** http://www.mda.org.uk/ You are currently subscribed to MCN-L, the listserv of the Museum Computer Network (www.mcn.edu). To post messages to this list, send emails to: mcn-l@mcn.edu To unsubscribe from this list, please send an email to mcn-unsubscr...@lists.mediatrope.com with any message. If you are receiving messages as they are posted and wish to change to daily digest format, send an email to listser...@lists.mediatrope.com with SET mcn-l DIGEST in the BODY of the message. If you are receiving messages in the daily digest format and wish to recieve them as they are posted, send an email to listser...@lists.mediatrope.com with SET mcn-l MAIL
