Part 1: Create a Museum Digital Project Workflow that Works

Museum digital projects encompass museum object digitization and cataloging. In the case of both digitization and cataloging, an established workflow for staff to follow is critical for success.

A good workflow will also have several benefits:

1. It will help set a rhythm for project activities, allowing staff to more easily focus on the quality of the work;
2. A well-built and ingrained workflow will make it easier to consistently employ project standards and minimize mistakes; and
3. A well created workflow will aid in meeting the project deadline on time.

In order to reap these workflow benefits, it’s important to understand what elements compose a workflow, how to construct an accurate workflow, and how to test and refine it. And that’s what we’ll cover in this digital projects mini-series on workflows.

The Definition of Workflow

First, let’s start by establishing a shared definition of workflow:

A workflow is a sequence of tasks that build and lead to a next task, from initiation all the way to completion. While some workflow tasks may be able to happen asynchronously, there’s typically an order imposed on the tasks so as to yield the best results.

In our exploration of museum digital project workflows, we’re going to review the information needed to construct a workflow that encompasses both digitization and cataloging.

Museum Digital Project Workflow Elements

All museum digital project should include the following elements at a minimum. Depending on the scope and complexity of your digital project, there may be additional activities to consider and add to this workflow formula.

Workflow Elements:

• Define project scope and desired outcomes
• Select and quantify the number of museum objects
• Outline activities to be undertaken
• Establish any standards and specifications
• Identify resources (equipment, software, personnel) needed

Define the Project Scope and Desired Outcomes

If you’re in the driver’s seat for museum digital project creation, then it’s up to you to determine what the desired outcome is and thus, what the scope should entail. While scoping out the project, I recommend considering the following elements:

• Why? What’s the impetus for this project?
• What are the desired outcomes, deliverables, and/or products?
• Are there any dictated outcomes that you must consider (whether by a director, donor, or grant)?

Select and Quantify the Number of Museum Objects

In the majority of cases, the reason “why?” explored in the project scope section will also help you define which museum objects should be included in the project. As you select and add up the relevant objects, you may need to further narrow the criteria in order to create an achievable project scope. Narrowing the criteria can be difficult, especially for those of us who would like to include *all* the objects. Here are a few prompts to consider:

• Which objects are the least “seen” (not online and not often displayed)?
• Which objects help tell a fuller story not otherwise presented?
• Which objects are at risk of loss and need a digital surrogate made before they disintegrate?

Conclusion

Read Create a Museum Digital Project Workflow that Works—Part 2 where we’ll continue to review museum digital project workflow elements: outlining activities, establishing standards and specifications, and identifying resources.

Museum Digital Projects Webinar Series

If you’re interested in catching the previous webinars in the Museum Digital Projects Series, please visit Lucidea’s webinar suite for on-demand viewing:

• The Components of a Successful Museum Digital Project
• How to Create and Manage Successful Museum Digital Projects
• How to Choose the Right Tools for Museum Digital Projects
• The Essentials of Evaluating Museum DAMS vs CMS
• How Much Will Museum Digital Projects Cost Me?