Project Management

Identifying Worthwhile Archival Projects

Identifying Worthwhile Archival Projects

The most vital aspect of managing a successful archival project is identifying the right problem to be solved. In the cultural heritage sector, too many excellent exciting projects exist, but limited resources hamper seeing them to fruition. Archivists should prioritize projects that add value to the organization.

Projects should reduce costs, expand services, or increase efficiency—and be linked to these objectives from start to finish. Archivists must change their mindset from simply completing a project to strategically implementing the project with business objectives in mind.

How to Determine the Feasibility of Digital Archives Projects

How to Determine the Feasibility of Digital Archives Projects

Over the years, I have directed or have been a subject matter expert on a number of projects using born-digital and digitized cultural heritage materials. With each new experience, I have gathered a series of questions, an aide-mémoire, to be explored before commencing a digital initiative.

Staffing and Collaboration for Digital Archival Projects

Staffing and Collaboration for Digital Archival Projects

Staffing needs for digital projects depend on the project’s size and complexity. Training existing staff members to work on digitization projects is a critical component of change management within the institution because digital projects require new skills. The digital age is moving memory institutions into new paradigms of delivering both services and content, and this alteration brings with it a need for training in managing information in a hybrid environment.

Leading and Managing Teams

Leading and Managing Teams

Project managers conducting records management assignments must be committed to leading their team to success. Frequently, they work without high-level support, at times with active resistance, and occasionally in the absence of any evidence that the project is possible! Courageous leadership in the face of obstacles is required.