[OPEN-ILS-GENERAL] ***SPAM*** ***SPAM*** Re: generic training server with predictable data

[Martha Driscoll]

I think that's a great idea and also like Dan's suggestion of including 
the sample data in the source so we can populate our own test system. 
I'm not sure we would use the sample data for end-user training, but see 
a huge benefit for consortia staff in learning Evergreen.  One of the 
big hurdles we are trying to overcome is the learning curve in setting 
up Evergreen.  A test system with some real looking libraries, 
circulation rules, shelving locations, bib records, statistical codes, 
patrons, etc. may not look anything like what our final goal is, but 
certainly gives us something to begin using, react to, test with etc.

The other benefit of the sample data is the exercise of loading the data 
into the database.  We know how to get our data out of our current 
system, and having templates to create our own load scripts would be great.

--
Martha Driscoll
Systems Manager
North of Boston Library Exchange
Danvers, Massachusetts
www.noblenet.org

Lori Bowen Ayre wrote:
> Hi All,
> 
> I posted info about this idea and got a big 'ol nothing in response so I 
> wanted to try one more time to verify that it really is of no interest 
> to anyone.  Here's the idea....as one of the RSCEL projects, were 
> thinking of setting up a training server which would have a current 
> version of Evergreen loaded, would be accessible to anyone (much like 
> the demo servers) but we'd make sure we kept it totally current with one 
> matching client software download.  
> 
> We'd also keep data in there that you could rely on being there for 
> training (so we'd have to refresh it on some regular basis). 
>  Eventually, we'd contribute some exercises that people could use in 
> their training which would use that training server and data.  
> 
> The idea is that you would then not have to worry about how to train 
> your people on your own Evergreen server at the same time you were 
> trying to get ready to go live.  
> 
> Also, by sharing the same data and server set-up, we could all 
> contribute training exercises.
> 
> So, if you think this would be useful or you think it would be a waste 
> of time...please advise.  Friendly amendments are also encouraged.  We 
> want to do something that helps people so if this wouldn't help anyone, 
> we RSCELs will focus our attention somewhere else!
> 
> Thanks for your feedback!
> 
> Lori Ayre