Discussion 1, Directing without a Script: Strategies for Successful Technical Services Project Management

Abstract

Projects, such as retrospective barcoding, relocating collections, grants to catalog hidden collections, etc., are as common in Special Collections technical services areas as the day to day work of keeping up with new acquisitions. While the final goal of these projects is clearly defined, the path to reaching that goal requires creativity and improvisation. Technical Services projects often become complex production numbers, involving coordinating workflows and personnel. Effective management is essential to direct these projects through unanticipated challenges to completion. Participants in the session will discuss successes and lessons learned from managing past or current technical services projects.