Untangling a tangled web: a case study in choosing and implementing a CMS

Abstract

Purpose

To present a case study of a library systems department's experience in choosing and implementing a content management system. By sharing this process others may be helped as they look for solutions and face similar situations.

Design/methodology/approach

A reflective case study was chosen because it allowed the systems department to tell their story by reflecting on what had happened over the past two years. This is also a self study as the writers of the story are also the ones who experienced the events.

Findings

The article provides a detailed account of choosing and implementing a CMS including insight into decisions, issues, and processes. The broad issues of usability, that usability is individualistic and task oriented, is portrayed. The hard work and difficulties involved in this type of project, especially for a small library, is recognized.

Research limitations/implications

As this is one department's experiences, it is not necessarily generalizable to other CMS projects or other libraries.

Practical implications

Sharing experiences can give insight and guidelines to those who are contemplating similar decisions/implementations.

Originality/value

This paper offers practical advice and reflective insights based on an actual experience.

Citation

Huttenlock, T.L., Beaird, J.W. and Fordham, R.W. (2006), "Untangling a tangled web: a case study in choosing and implementing a CMS", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 61-68. https://doi.org/10.1108/07378830610652112