Digital Repositories: A New Challenge for Information Management Functions

Digital repositories, and IM's role in managing them, are beginning to move to the forefront of many IM groups' service portfolios and functional strategies. Libraries in the academic and government sectors have led the way in adopting repositories, and now Outsell sees evidence that this trend will also take hold in corporate settings. But there is confusion around the terminology and purpose of digital repositories, and even about what "digital repository" means. Therefore, Outsell set out to define the digital repository landscape. This report will help information managers understand the variety of digital repositories, the applicable standards, the driving forces that lead to their creation, and essential actions for those considering establishing one. The report contains:

- Outsell's definition of digital repositories;
- Analysis of types and purposes of digital repositories, including a table with examples;
- Criteria for deciding on digital repository software, and examples of available commercial and open source software;
- Outsell's Information Product Development Lifecycle for digital repositories;
- Imperatives for information management professionals considering establishing a digital repository.