Erm Ideas and Innovations

Abstract

This issue's ERM Ideas and Innovations Column is from Lila (Angie) Ohler, Head of Acquisitions at the University of Maryland College Park. Angie discusses the future potential of electronic resources management (ERM) organization, within the development of the next-generation integrated library systems (ILS), as a very promising strategy. This also presents enormous challenges to ERM librarians though, especially on how to determine standards and workflows. Angie's premise is to look beyond the way we might manage locally at our libraries or the ways we feel most comfortable to the larger landscape for more effective solutions. She discusses expanded approaches to ERM work when planning for these solutions. Ultimately, understanding historical pitfalls and pushing to develop prevailing system standards based on workflow best practices may lead to more effective solutions.