Ex Libris™, a part of Clarivate™, has announced an updated two-year development plan for its Alma library management system. The plan outlines an ambitious strategy for innovation and enhancement through the remainder of 2024 and into 2025. The refreshed roadmap, which is updated semi-annually, aims to integrate cutting-edge technologies like Linked Open Data and artificial intelligence (AI) to help libraries manage their resources more effectively and prepare for future challenges.
The Alma system, renowned for its unified library management capabilities, will continue to evolve with a blend of new features and enhanced functionality designed to meet the needs of nearly 2,700 institutional subscribers worldwide. The roadmap highlights several key development areas, including:
• Enhanced User Experience: A more streamlined and intuitive interface and workflows for Title Search and Patron Services, making it easier for library staff to manage tasks efficiently.
• AI Metadata Assistant: An advanced tool designed to assist catalogers in improving metadata accuracy and efficiency, leveraging AI to simplify and speed up the process.
• Robust Consortia Functionality: Enhanced collaboration and administration capabilities for consortia, allowing for better resource sharing and management across institutions.
• Workflow Simplification: Improved processes aimed at saving time and reducing complexity in library operations, allowing staff to focus more on user engagement and less on administrative tasks.
• Linked Open Data and Authority Management: Advanced data integration and management features that leverage Linked Open Data, enhancing the discoverability and interoperability of library resources.
• Support for Open Access: Enhanced support for open access initiatives and compliance, reflecting the growing importance of making scholarly content freely accessible.
A crucial aspect of Alma's ongoing development is the input and guidance provided by its global user community. Ex Libris emphasizes a community-driven approach, with users influencing development priorities through platforms like the Ex Libris Idea Exchange, the New Enhancements Request System NERS managed by IGeLU and ELUNA user groups, and various product working groups and listservs.
Ex Libris’ commitment to regular updates ensures that Alma remains a leading solution in library management. The roadmap outlines a steady stream of quarterly feature enhancement releases, supplemented by periodic maintenance and analytics updates throughout the year. While the roadmap provides a high-level overview, it underscores the company’s systematic approach to development, ensuring libraries benefit from the latest technological advancements.
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