Hi Matthew,

In message <[log in to unmask]>,
Stiff, Matthew <[log in to unmask]> writes
>I would also say that SPECTRUM is about the
>management of INFORMATION about collections, something that is much broader
>than collections management as it is often perceived in the museum world.

Rather off-topic, but I always saw 'information about 'collections' as
much _narrower_ than 'collections management' - CM being 'the management
of stuff and the information related to it'

>SPECTRUM is also only applied by those managing the information (although
>very much to the benefit of the users). Those involved in academic research
>on museum collections are rarely aware of its existence. I think the same
>could apply to procedures for MIDAS.
I think a researcher on (say) accordions is unlikely to look at
SPECTRUM, or, as you say, be aware of its existence.  Precisely because
they are not engaged with many of the procedures of management (of the
accordions, or their associated data).  On the other hand, a researcher
of (say) ziggurats, may well find that using MIDAS is helpful.  Although
they are, I agree, still more likely to be ignorant of it and go off and
event their own methodology.
>
Having agreed that HERs procedures could form an important enhancement
to MIDAS ....

In another email Matthew makes another very important point which I'd
like to comment on:
On the issue of researchers, I think a distinction needs to be drawn
between
those who merely use data and those who create it. I would not advocate
hiding MIDAS from anyone, I am merely recognising that levels of
awareness
will vary according to need. As a community it is important that those
creating or disseminating data are as aware of it as possible.

I agree there is a distinction between the collation and creation of
data.  I think we need to be more explicit as to why it is more
important for creators of data to follow standards than for collators of
data.

The 'community' (?who - FISH, those using MIDAS at present, those
running HERS?) may well not be best placed to influence those creating
and disseminating data in an academic context.  Is it part of their job
descriptions?  Who is paying for this advertising and advocacy?

With best wishes,

Pat


--
Pat Reynolds
[log in to unmask]
   "It might look a bit messy now,
                    but just you come back in 500 years time"
   (T. Pratchett)