[MassHistPres] Hist Comm. Computer programs

[EDW HANNULA]

Hi Danielle,
  The most comprehensive software in the market today for historical societies and small museums is "Pastperfect".  Look it up at museumsoftware.com.  It's been around since 1999 and is already being used by more than 4000 institutions. It includes not only collections management (acquisition, maintenance, and incoming and outgoing loans) but also membership development and a terrific section for keeping track of donations, pledges, and financial campaigns.  I have trained dozens of people on its use and can attest to the fact that it is user friendly.  
  As for a desktop publishing program, a very simple one is Microsoft Publisher, if you already have Microsoft products loaded.  However, if you plan on doing very sophisticated publishing, most printers do not want to deal with the Publisher program.  They will request you submit things on Quark or other more sophisticated programs.  On the other hand, if you're in the cutting and pasting mode right now, then you could create your works on the Publisher program and then print them and deliver them "camera-ready" to the printer.  
  And, if you do go this way, you should know that non-profits can receive tremendous discounts on lots of software, including Microsoft, by joining up with TechSoup on line.  A $400 program can be had for $25 by producing the information that you're a non-profit. If you have any other questions, I'd be happy to talk with you.
  Betsy Hannula
  978-874-0430 

Danielle Fisher <woodward_genealogy at yahoo.com> wrote:
  The Bellingham Historical Commision is going to be receiving a new computer within the next month. One of our members posed the question as to what software programs other commisions use besides the standard MSword. 
Our commision puts out a quarterly town history booklet so will be purchasing either Quark xpress or Adobe Pagemaker. Currently they use a typewriter and literally cut and paste it together before delivering to the printer. 
The commission also maintains a town history museum located in what was originally the towns 2nd library (the 1st was located in the house that sits across from it). We will need a program to maintain the contents and historical nature of each item for easy retrieval as everything is maintained in a vertical file and the curators head. :) His knowledge is amazing.

Does anyone use other programs besides the two mentioned above? Is there a program we should purchase in addition to the standard software? Thank you.

Danielle Fisher
Bellingham Ma


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Betsy Hannula
68 Harrington Road
Westminster, MA 01473

Tel. 978-874-0430