[Web4lib] Re: Meanwhile, back on topic... ("Can't use open source")

[Amy Drayer]

Dear Thomas et al:

> I assume this doesn't refer to some allergic reaction you have, so I'm
> curious - what prevents you from using open source tools?  Do you have
> an AD for Prevention of Initiative and Innovation named Mordac?

lol Oh no, I would love to get involved in open source. I just work
for county and soon federal agencies that are committed to Microsoft
products. Our IT refuses to support PHP or Linux (in the nicest way
possible).  This isn't a matter per se of quality or preference, but
they are very short staffed and the overarching agencies' commitment
to the M makes keeping people who have both skill sets (who can make
oodles more elsewhere) and continually maintaining updates (for oss
there's usually many more) nearly impossible. I haven't seen many open
source systems that support large libraries (my current system has 15
locations with over a hundred patron computers, next one will have 28
locations), so it's hard to argue for it. We did implement Meebo and
CONTENTdm though. :D

It isn't for a lack of advocating, it just isn't practical right now.
After two years of being here, I think my current organization is more
willing to look at the alternatives with less skepticism. I hope with
the fantastic search options the oILSs (open ILS, like my acronym?)
and support for oCMSs (open CMS) are providing, that there is room to
discuss them as potential and highly-likely candidates. At least, I am
going to make strong arguments for them. :-) Both sides of the open
source debate are understandable, but I am expecting a gradual oss
take over unless vendors start lowering their prices and making their
products better (that means the code too!). ;-)

PS My supervisor wanted me to go to the Code4Lib conference, but I
kept telling her no because I would drool over all the things I
couldn't have. :P Maybe next year.

-- 
In peace,

Amy M. Drayer
Web Interface Designer
amostrom at gmail.com
http://www.puzumaki.com