Best Practices

Over the term we have examined many different kinds of social software that has been utilized in the library. What I will examine in my blog this week are the best practices to use when thinking of implementing this technology into the library.

Knowing Your Audience

I think it is important before implementation that the library decide whether or not the technology in question is right for the patrons of the library, if it will be utilized or not. It is pointless to spend money on a technology that may never be used. By finding out of your patrons are interested or not in using this technology, no matter what this may be, whether a wiki or a new social network site, it is important to find out from them if they are wanting this type of new service.

 Fads and Trends

Its important for the library to not implement a technology into the library because its the latest trend. Fads and trends never last long and if the library does this and the trend is over in a few months the library is left with a technology that no one is using because it is now considered 'uncool'. The library should try and stick with those technologies that have some staying power and that possibly have several functions in order to get the best use out of them.

Implement Slowly 

I think it is important that anything that the library does it starts with a trial of the technology in order to see how it is recieved by their patrons, if it something that no one wants to use because it is too complicated and hard to figure out, the library can find something else that is more streamlined and simpler functions. I think it is really important that libraries start using social software in one way or another but start out small and implement it slowly so that patrons can get used to it and allows it to build up usage.