Author Topic: Why can't serial number lookup be automated? (Read 192 times)

the_jester · « **on:** February 04, 2010, 10:01:38 AM »

It just seems like Mica's work is busy enough...

Why can't serial numbers be automated to the point where users could use the search tools already provided on this application server?

All it would take is someone adding the information on a thread, and then people could be directed to perform a normal search like so...

This would free Mica's time considerably, if she deems necessary.

(Message edited by the_jester on February 04, 2010)

elwoodblue · « **Reply #1 on:** February 04, 2010, 11:10:27 AM »

So many of the build cards are filed on paper it requires someone to look for that card.
I imagine it would take a looong time to enter all that info to make a digital search possible.

the_jester · « **Reply #2 on:** February 04, 2010, 11:30:45 AM »

All Mica or somebody would need to do, is take a pictures of the document with a regular digital camera, then catalog the the thread, and add the imaged picture to the thread. Easy as pie.

Users could first check to see if there's a listing, and if not -- forward their questions to Mica as normal.

The search here, is very powerful and it might give you more information than just the colors alone... In fact, it could take you to Flip's Alembic catalog too.

Yeah, the search tool here is extremely helpful and people should be informed about them.

Peace and Love,

Hal-

mica · « **Reply #3 on:** February 04, 2010, 11:51:28 AM »

There are over 14,000 files. The information needs to be interpreted from the files. Not everything is suitable for photographing (owner addresses, bad handwriting, faded inks). I must inform you that it's not an easy task, I would have done it already if it were

It's my goal to have serial numbers in a database eventually, but it's not going to happen in 2010.

There is already the ability to search to see if history request has been fulfilled on the Club and many use it. I even have a couple of angels here that perform the search and direct the requester to the previous lookup if one exists. I truly do appreciate that assistance.

cozmik_cowboy · « **Reply #4 on:** February 04, 2010, 03:50:36 PM »

I'm telling you, Mica - you need a company archivist!

Peter (who just got a no, but thanks for applying e-mail on the UCSC Grateful Dead Archivist job)

LMiwa · « **Reply #5 on:** February 05, 2010, 07:34:39 AM »

In someone's spare time, averaging 10 a day, 5 days a week, it would take more than 5.5 years to get them all done. A full time person averaging one every 5 minutes (good luck with that!) would still take over 7 months.

Sounds like a good grant project for a student intern!

FC Bass · « **Reply #6 on:** February 05, 2010, 08:27:47 AM »

It can be done in some weeks, maybe a little over a month. (one person working 8 hours/day only on this)
My list (the first version with approx 600 instruments) was finished in approx. one workday spread out on two evenings.
I'm guessing that inputting data from actual files will take about the same effort as the foolish inexperienced start of my project (I later found out a much quicker way of linking/formatting) :-)

Then again: bad handwriting, faded inks So I could be a bit optimistic in my estimated time, but hey Isn't that the Alembic way? :-)

(Message edited by fc_spoiler on February 05, 2010)

mica · « **Reply #7 on:** February 05, 2010, 02:04:39 PM »

the_jester · « **Reply #8 on:** February 05, 2010, 02:33:58 PM »

There's so much talent here where people do give with their hearts and minds, and expect nothing in return. These are the true givers of the world with much earned, no human could ever give.