Decision-Making in the Selection, Procurement, and Implementation of Alma/Primo

The Customer Perspective

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v42i1.15599

Keywords:

library automation system, library services platform, Alma, Primo, system selection, procurement and implementation, project management, decision making, system migration, integrated library system

Abstract

This case study examines the decision-making process of library leaders and administrators in the selection, procurement, and implementation of Ex Libris Alma/Primo as their library services platform (LSP). The authors conducted a survey of libraries and library consortia in Canada and the United States who have implemented or plan to implement Alma. The results show that most libraries use both request for information (RFI) and request for proposal (RFP) in their system selection process, but the vendor-offered training is insufficient for effective operation. One-third of the libraries surveyed are considering switching to open-source options for their next automation system. These insights can benefit libraries and library consortia in improving their technological readiness and decision-making processes.

Author Biographies

Jin Xiu Guo, Florida International University Libraries

Associate Dean for Technical Services

Gordon Xu, New Jersey Institute of Technology

Associate University Librarian for Collections & Information Technology

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Published

2023-03-20

How to Cite

Guo, J. X., & Xu, G. (2023). Decision-Making in the Selection, Procurement, and Implementation of Alma/Primo: The Customer Perspective. Information Technology and Libraries, 42(1). https://doi.org/10.6017/ital.v42i1.15599

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Articles