It's Not (Just) About Software

The successful deployment of new biological collection software tools is contingent on a deep understanding of how biodiversity scientists think about their data, the particular needs of projects and the nature of long-term institutional and science community requirements. We approach software design and support from a user-centric perspective by examining existing research workflows and then current and needed science capabilities. We also consider the broader context of biological collections computing, investigating ways to leverage existing national and international cyberinfrastructure to integrate collections data processing with more inclusive informatics and networking initiatives. We then design, develop and frequently update software solutions in an interactive, incremental process which responds to client feedback, the evolving requirements of collections researchers, and to advances in computing technologies.

Software support is an integral part of research software development life cycle for biological collections. Research collections range in size and staffing from single scientists with little or no technical support to large research centers with dedicated IT support staff and in rare cases with data managers and software developers. The majority of collections with which we collaborate fall in the middle of the size spectrum.  Our software helpdesk and configuration support is of considerable benefit for dealing with technial issues that may arise and for increasing research productivity.

Technical services we offer include:

Software Helpdesk

We operate a helpdesk for issues related to the use of Specify applications and the Lifemapper clients and web services. We log and track every incoming technical support request and inquiry to our customer relationship ticket system and we provide prompt, useful answers to questions about installing, configuring or using our software products and web services.The helpdesk is accessible by phone at 785-864-4400 or by e-mail at specify@ku.edu and lifemapper@ku.edu.

Specify Configuration and Customization

We customize the screen interface of Specify to meet individual collection requirements. The Specify user interface is wholly-defined with configuration files which permit extensive user interface customization, localization to different languages, and other changeable features on a user-by-user basis. We also offer printed report and label template customization for paper output sized from insect pin labels with 2 point text to sheet, jar, box and shelf labels of any shape and size.

Legacy Data Conversion

We deconstruct legacy collection databases and map their data fields to Specify's modern, multi-disciplinary database design. Migrating existing data to Specify can be done to ensure completeness and so that the new data set takes advantage of Specify's database and user interface data form design.  We typically customize data forms for newly migrated data so that all historical data fields are visible and usable in Specify.

Training

We offer workshops on the use and configuration of Specify 6 for research collections management. Workshops are typically hosted by a requesting institution and we provide the instructor and materials. One or two-day workshops are an efficient way to quickly master Specify’s interface and functions.

Project Planning

Our department researchers and software engineers have deep expertise in biological collection databases, data concepts, and software options. As part of our mission, we frequently collaborate with collections researchers on database server and client software strategies for specimen data analysis and management.