The real cost of ILS ownership

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to bring awareness to all factors that impact on the cost of an integrated library system (ILS).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a total cost of ownership approach, a bigger view of all the factors impacting on cost is explored.

Findings

The paper finds that many libraries focus entirely on direct costs when selecting a new ILS, rather than factoring in staff time and other long‐term costs that will be associated with choosing a system.

Originality/value

When the direct and indirect costs are considered, systems that have higher initial costs may be cheaper to own through their entire lifespan than other, seemingly cheaper, products.

Citation

Fischer, R. and Lugg, R. (2006), "The real cost of ILS ownership", The Bottom Line, Vol. 19 No. 3, pp. 111-123. https://doi.org/10.1108/08880450610682536