How Oxford University Library Services used MySource Matrix to create a portal publishing solution for its vast network of libraries.
Download the Oxford University case study (pdf)
Oxford University Library Services (OULS) now has the perfect ‘off the shelf’ solution connecting its vast library network, thanks to Squiz and its MySource Matrix Open Source CMS.
Oxford is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, and a leader in learning, teaching and research.
The Challenge
When OULS was established in 2000 part of its remit was to oversee the development of a central library website, support portal style sites for the 40 libraries that make up the network and provide a range of network services, such as email, file storing, web space, office systems, and training and support for new applications.
No small task when you consider Oxford University is the world’s largest repository of academic information, with some nine million volumes, and includes the renowned Bodleian Library.
Ruth Bird, Bodleian Law Librarian and with responsibility for OULS’ website, explained: “The look and feel of each portal was different which was making it harder for users to access the resources they needed. Support issues were also growing.
The Solution
Squiz’s Open Source CMS, MySource Matrix handed control back to OULS – control of network architecture, control of its multiple sites under one brand and guided by a single publishing policy, and control of costs. Importantly, the system was also easier for the in-house team to support.
The open source aspect of the technology i.e. it’s free to use and own, means development budget can be focused on creating new sites rather than licensing fees, and valuable intellectual property inherent in the system is retained by OULS.
The Outcome with MySource Matrix Open Source CMS
New sites have been rolled and migrated to the Matrix system and feedback from site managers and end users has been extremely positive, reports Ruth.
“Squiz and MySource Matrix have given us back control of our online resources in a way that benefits everybody – the central IT team, web managers, users, and my budget manager!”
