5.2.1 Method of Exchange
Content providers should post holdings data to a website or FTP site for download by link resolver suppliers. This minimizes the effort involved in the transaction for both parties.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a simple protocol for allowing users to exchange files. It allows access to the metadata to be restricted to authorized users, though content providers should recognize that broad dissemination of information about accessing their content is in their best interest, and multiple link resolvers (including libraries managing their own link resolvers) should be able to access the data.
Posting to the web or to an FTP site is preferable to e-mail exchange because it is harder to incorporate e-mail into an automated process for checking, validating, and uploading new data. E-mail exchanges are also subject to length restrictions, spam filters, and individuals’ availability. However, if posting to the web or FTP site is unachievable, then e-mail is an acceptable alternative. The data from the tab-delimited file (see Section 5.3.1.1) should be placed in the body of the e-mail; the e-mail’s subject line should also follow the naming convention given in Section 5.3.1.2.
5.2.2 Frequency of Exchange
A monthly metadata update is recommended; however, when content is added less frequently than monthly, content providers may then choose a less frequent schedule for updates. Alternatively, providers may update data more frequently than once a month if they wish.
5.2.3 Data Contacts
Both the content provider and the knowledge base developer should designate specific staff members to be responsible for data files and exchange. Doing so expedites resolution of any problems that may develop. Content providers will need to inform the designated knowledge base developer contact about any changes to the data exchange process. Knowledge base developers will need to inform the designated content provider contact about any errors in the data. Both contacts will need to take responsibility for passing messages to the appropriate staff within their organization and ensuring appropriate action is taken. To facilitate this relationship, the KBART Working Group will also provide a web form that will be editable by the community to add details of content provider and knowledge base developer contacts. A link to this web form will be provided on the KBART web pages.
- Proceed to section 5.3.1 of the KBART report: data format
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