INFOhio's Migration to SirsiDynix - Update from Terri Shutt, August 4, 2006

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SirsiDynix Migration
Migration Update
Message from Terri Shutt
August 4, 2006

SirsiDynix Version GL3.1 Upgrade

INFOhio Technical Services staff completed the WorkFlows^Ž GL3.1 statewide upgrade of all SirsiDynix instances (approximately 600) between July 17 and July 28. In comparison, last year’s GL3.0 upgrade took an entire month to complete for about half the number of instances. This is due entirely to SirsiDynix’s willingness to improve the upgrade scripts specifically for INFOhio’s multi-instance setup.

Numerous enhancements and fixes have been packaged into this release version. Those of specific interest to INFOhio libraries include:

	Windows and Macintosh Java clients
	Support for 13-digit ISBNs (compliance required by January 1, 2007)
	Support for expanded OCLC control numbers (Beginning in November, the OCLC prefix will include the prefix ocn, followed by a 9-digit number instead of an 8-digit number.)
	Barcode check digit validation
	MARC record validation
	Library calendar management (Library staff will manage building calendars, rather than ITC staff.)
	Display of authority headings in mixed case, rather than all upper case
	Support for SmartPort Unicorn gateways.

The first step required for implementing any of these new features was to upgrade everyone’s server software to the Version GL3.1 General Release. This was a time-consuming process, because it required re-indexing of the databases. Also, users had to be off the system. INFOhio has now accomplished this critical step.

The Version GL3.1 upgrade is not without its list of known issues. Most are specific to the Java clients. ITC staff who support INFOhio's library automation software have been provided with a list of these issues. A number of the Java issues are to be corrected in the first Version GL3.1 patch cluster expected in the fall and are especially critical to Java client implementation.

Once INFOhio receives and tests the patch cluster, ITCs will schedule a time to apply the software updates locally. At this time, we do not anticipate having to re-run any indexing reports. However, it will require users to be off the system when the update occurs.

INFOhio’s current recommendation is that ITCs delay implementing the Java client -- for districts other than those who participated in INFOhio's Java pilot -- until after the Version GL3.1 patch cluster has been applied. Exceptions will be considered for Macintosh districts that are unable to run the C client and for districts receiving new LSTA grants. In such cases library staff and technical support providers must understand the Java client is new and has issues that may have yet to be discovered.

In addition, INFOhio advises ITCs to transition districts to the Java client slowly. It is still a relatively new client, and there likely will be more bugs/idiosyncrasies uncovered as additional users begin using it. In other words, it might not be wise to force everyone over to the new client immediately. Remember, SirsiDynix has committed to support the C client for at least two more years.

There are many positive aspects to Version GL3.1, and INFOhio anticipates even more progress with subsequent upgrades. INFOhio Technical Support will continue to rigorously test all software upgrades prior to their release to the INFOhio community. Thanks to all who have assisted in this important work!

Terri Shutt
INFOhio Technical Support Team Leader