A Passage to a Web-Based Cataloguing Module Implementation in an Integrated Library Management System: An Early View

Abstract

Introduction: The development of web-based cataloging systems is currently well accepted as
a solution replacing the client-based cataloging system. This system is convenient to use as the
librarian can access the module from anywhere and anytime. The only requirement to access
this system of cataloguing is the Internet access. The installation timing for the web-based
cataloging systems is more convenient and faster compared to the client-based cataloging
system. In order to better solve problems faced by the cataloging system clients, this research
aims to evaluate the implementation of web-based cataloging system in comparison with clientbased cataloging systems.
Objectives: The main objective is to evaluate a web-based cataloging system that can reduce
the problems recurred in a client-based cataloging system. The study selects academic
institutions which operate web-based library system interfaces. The library systems should
consist of more than 20 modules, which is widely applied in the education industry. The
development and study of this project focus on one of the core modules, that is, the cataloging
module.
Methods: Preliminary study has been conducted to identify the problems of existing systems
and recommend the use of a new system or modify an existing system, define objectives and
goals of the system being developed, the scope and importance of the project. The aim of this
study is to identify the drawbacks with client based cataloging system that obstructs its use.
The interview sessions are conducted with a total of eight respondents (who are the trainers,
programmers, clients, and also the software engineers)
Results: From the preliminary interview sessions that had been conducted, it can be concluded
that 80% of respondents (7 out of eight respondents) are unhappy with the usage of the clientbased cataloging system. Only 20% of the respondents are satisfied with the functionality of
the client-based cataloging system. The study is beneficial to reduce the issues and challenges
with the client based cataloging system, to assist librarians to catalog library materials in a short
amount of time and easily, and to provide the insights into web-based cataloging system
development.
Conclusions: The researcher has completed the evaluation of the system successfully as it can
be proved that the system is a success. It can be concluded that the researcher has successfully
completed the project after conducting re-search is vital areas and aspects followed up with the
programmers that developing the system successfully. In conclusion, this project has been a
success and has achieved its entire objective.