How do you assess the impact and value of cataloging and metadata on the library's mission and goals?

1 Identify your objectives and indicators

The first step in assessing the impact and value of cataloging and metadata is to define what you want to achieve and how you will measure it. You need to align your objectives with the library's mission and goals, and identify the indicators that will show your progress and outcomes. For example, you may want to improve the quality and consistency of your metadata, increase the visibility and discoverability of your collections, or enhance the user experience and satisfaction. Your indicators may include metrics such as error rates, usage statistics, search rankings, or feedback surveys.

2 Collect and analyze your data

The next step is to collect and analyze the data that will inform your assessment. You need to choose the appropriate methods and tools for gathering and processing your data, depending on your objectives and indicators. For example, you may use cataloging software, analytics platforms, web crawlers, or user testing tools to collect and analyze your data. You also need to ensure the validity, reliability, and accuracy of your data, and address any gaps or limitations that may affect your results.

3 Report and communicate your findings

The final step is to report and communicate your findings to your stakeholders, funders, and users. You need to present your findings in a clear, concise, and compelling way, using visual aids, narratives, or stories to illustrate your impact and value. You also need to tailor your message to your audience, highlighting the benefits and outcomes that matter to them. For example, you may use infographics, dashboards, case studies, or testimonials to showcase your findings.

4 Use existing frameworks and standards

One way to simplify and streamline your assessment process is to use existing frameworks and standards that provide guidelines and best practices for cataloging and metadata evaluation. For example, you may use the ISO 28500 standard for web archiving quality assessment, the RDA Toolkit for cataloging standards, or the DPLA Metadata Application Profile for metadata interoperability. Using these frameworks and standards can help you ensure the quality and consistency of your cataloging and metadata, and compare and benchmark your performance with other libraries.

5 Learn from other libraries and experts

Another way to enhance your assessment skills and knowledge is to learn from other libraries and experts who have conducted similar or relevant evaluations. You can find examples and resources from various sources, such as professional associations, journals, blogs, webinars, or conferences. For example, you may check out the Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication Program Evaluation Report, the OCLC Research Library Partnership Metadata Managers Focus Group Report, or the ALCTS Webinar Series on Measuring Your Catalog's Impact. Learning from other libraries and experts can help you discover new methods, tools, insights, or best practices for your assessment.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

The last but not least tip for assessing the impact and value of cataloging and metadata is to seek feedback and improvement. You need to evaluate your own assessment process and results, and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges that you face. You also need to solicit feedback from your stakeholders, funders, and users, and listen to their suggestions, concerns, or expectations. Based on your feedback and evaluation, you need to implement changes and improvements that will enhance your cataloging and metadata quality, efficiency, and effectiveness.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?