Digital initiatives encompass a wide array of topics and services. When considering an implementation strategy, the inclination is to begin by defining the technical infrastructure.  However, this approach defines a set of solutions before the organizational needs are well understood.  OSUL made a conscious decision to step back and avoid looking for specific technological solutions and instead attempt to understand the broader functional concepts that make up the the larger digital initiatives program.   Working closely with the Strategies for Digital Initiatives Working Group (SDIWG), the program has sought  to track not only the changing technology and infrastructure needs – but also to better understand how those changes will impact the Libraries and it’s stakeholders.

This work has led to an ambitious plan to reimagine the Libraries digital initiatives vision, as well as a shift in the over digital libraries infrastructure.  These changes continue to be ongoing, as technology and needs continue to evolve.  

Principles and Working Papers

Like any organization, the Libraries’ technical infrastructure is always in a state of flux.  Like any organization, the Libraries continually evaluates its infrastructure, tools, and services to take advantage of new advancements and anticipate the needs of the organization and its users.

At the same time, the Libraries vision and mission for the digital initiatives program and the development of the Libraries’ technical infrastructure remain grounded in a set of core principles.  These principles inform our work, help to guide our decisions, and act as the touchstones that we work from as our environments continue to develop.