Week 14: Best practices and thoughts on the course

We've thought quite a bit about best practices across this term and for me there have been several that popped up repeatedly and regardless of the social software tool. Each of them anticipate some of the challenges and issues that might arise when considering the use of social software in libraries and other information organizations:

1. Experiment with or learn about new tools as you hear about them

    To help your organization to stay ahead of the curve

2. Define your organization's needs clearly

    To help determine which 2.0 tool, if any, is the right answer

3. Find good examples of the tool you are interested in

    Make note of what appeals to you and would work for your organization

4. Consider software and hardware options and requirements

    To ensure that the tool will not be an unnecessary strain on staff time and energy

5. Have a plan of action for content

    To establish a clear direction and ensure that content is relevant and useful

6. Consider a strategy to encourage use and adoption of the tool

    This could involve training, support, and assigning responsibility for maintaining the tool

7. Evaluate and re-evaluate

    To head off any issues or concerns that might arise after adoption of the tool

It seems to me that if these points are all considered, there is very little that could go wrong with implementing social software and, if something does not work out, staff will be prepared and have a plan rather than letting the tool fall to the wayside! I'll keep these best practices in mind in the future when I am in a position to help make decisions about incorporating social software into library services.

On a slightly different note, I wanted to talk about the distance education experience. I have personally really enjoyed it. I've learned a lot from reading everyone else's blogs. There is a different kind of learning that takes place when you can formulate your thoughts before presenting them and in being able to read the formulated thoughts of others. I've enjoyed having a chance to really read other's opinions, think about them, and respond. In a "live" class it is sometimes difficult for each person to have a chance to speak and hash out ideas. The online blog format has allowed for a different kind of interaction that I really wasn't expecting. I also appreciate being able to complete work and readings on my own time each week, because I've been able to actually think about what I'm learning rather than quickly digesting it without having a chance to think critically about it!

Another aspect of the class I really liked was the weekly del.icio.us bookmarking activity. It was great to reach outside of the class and readings every week to fresh and relevant online content, and to share that content with the class. It was a constant reminder of the wide-spread discussion of social software in libraries and elsewhere. I will definitely continue using del.icio.us, because I really like being able to access my bookmarks anywhere and organize them in a way that I like. I'm hoping to use del.icio.us at work as well, since it is a great tool for keeping on top of current news stories and sharing them with colleagues.

I want to wish everyone the best of luck in finishing their MLIS or, if you're done this term (like me!), best of luck in the future. It's been a great term!