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library 2.0 [beta] implementing new technologies in libraries using the Google Labs method. Darcy Duke Engineering Librarian for Technology-Based Services MIT Libraries ASEE 25 June 2007. slides adapted from a presentation by Nicole Hennig Web Manager and Usability Specialist MIT Libraries.
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library 2.0 [beta]implementing new technologies in libraries using the Google Labs method Darcy DukeEngineering Librarian for Technology-Based ServicesMIT Libraries ASEE 25 June 2007
slides adapted from a presentation byNicole HennigWeb Manager and Usability SpecialistMIT Libraries
outline • why we developed the “betas” concept • examples of betas • moving from beta to supported tool • questions
why? • demand! engineering students are on the cutting edge of new technologies • needed a way to quickly experiment with web 2.0 technologies • needed a structured process that allowed staff throughout the libraries to experiment
criteria for moving out of beta • the beta has received positive user feedback • it has been demonstrated that our community is using it • it has been in beta for at least one semester user feedback
criteria for moving out of beta tech support • we’ve made a commitment to support it either centrally or locally with tested technologies that our staff is trained to support • if it's provided and supported outside of MIT, it's from a trusted and reliable source • documentation, training, and workflow is in place
LibX adds our search to the browser toolbar libraries.mit.edu/libx
LibX has “graduated” user feedback
LibX has “graduated” tech support
key advantages • provides a way to get experience with technologies or features that we are still learning about before committing to supporting a new service • allows us to find out what works for our users and get quick feedback • encourages staff creativity and experimentation
other advantages • provides a place where the MIT community can contribute tools or hacks (in the MIT tradition of "hacks") • creates a special way to market new services - creates “buzz” before new services are live
learning from failure • not all betas will "graduate“ • they can still be useful to us as something to learn from • aspects of a particular beta service may survive in other tools
future betas • podcasts and screencasts • next version of Vera (database/journal lookup tool) that will include metasearch features • iGoogle homepage gadget for searching catalog
questions? libraries.mit.edu/betas