Creating searchable databases on the web, MySQL, etc.

[Shawn C]

Does anybody have knowledge in this area?

I'm laying out plans to catalog the music at the station that isn't
presently accounted for in a searchable database (like the BIG catalog
on the website). The huge number of Club and Metal CDs along the back
wall of the catalog room, for example.

I'd be extremely grateful to anyone who can steer me in the right
direction. Thanks.

[Stone Hansard]

I'll start by saying: no, I have no idea how to do any of that stuff.

You think it'd be advantageous to (if we found someone capable of that
kind of stuff) perhaps restructure the catalog a bit? I mean, fix stuff
like "Miles Davis" and "Davis, Miles", and perhaps add tags that allow
you to search according to specialty show appropriateness?

I know there's a long history of WVFS getting kinda screwed over in the
web-department, but I think it'd be worthwhile to try to get something
as visually pleasing, frequently updated, and effective as the SLC and
CDU websites.

I'm rambling at high hopes, don't mind me (unless you want to).

-Stone

[Shawn C]

I think you're absolutely right. I'm working closely with Misha to
get some of these concerns addressed. It will take more time,
however, since there is so much to consider. In the meantime, I could
use some help in entering data if you're interested.

[Stone Hansard]

I'd be very interested in helping, just let me know what you need done.

[Nicolas Wienders]

On Feb 26, 2007, at 5:04 PM, Shawn C wrote:

>
> I think you're absolutely right. I'm working closely with Misha to
> get some of these concerns addressed. It will take more time,
> however, since there is so much to consider. In the meantime, I could
> use some help in entering data if you're interested.
>
>

>>> Does anybody have knowledge in this area?

Yes.

But i remember organizing a meeting with department heads,
Ryan Carlyle, Brett Thompson and yourslef Shawn. Like three years ago.
I had prepared with Chupik an outline of what would be needed
for a better website, catalogue, etc.... Remember?
What has happen since then? Nothing. Because a few people do not
want anybody to step on their feet, but do not do anything at the same
time....

Has Misha or Ryan position changed? I am not sure, and that the
first think to check before anyhing ..... I remember that we lost
quite some
time and energy on the v89.org project....

[Shawn C]

Nico-

Thank you for your feedback on this topic...

I do not know where Misha or Ryan stand on the issue of website
aesthetics (one topic you and I discussed at that meeting so long
ago), as we have not discussed it in a very long time. I am not
currently involved in any projects for the station that involve
changing website aesthetics. I am, however, working with Misha and
Ryan on a broad-scale overhaul of the catalog. This should come as no
surprise to anyone, since it was announced that we were having an
inventory meeting and were seeking volunteers to assist with this
initial stage of the project. It wouldn't be right of me to discuss
the New Catalog in any greater detail because the end-results might
change, and I wouldn't want people to say, "well this is nice, but
Shawn said the new catalog was going to have the ability to [[[-INSERT-
NAME-OF-MAGNIFICENT-NEW-FEATURE-HERE-]]]..."

The task for which I am soliciting help from others has been
sanctioned. Basically, it involves creating a digital database/
spreadsheet/list of all non-cataloged items at the station (most
notably, the stuff on the Club-Metal-Blues shelves in the back room).
This way deejays can consult the computer before traipsing back there
to hunt something down, assuming that it's even there to hunt for in
the first place.

[Nicolas Wienders]

>
> I do not know where Misha or Ryan stand on the issue of website
> aesthetics (one topic you and I discussed at that meeting so long
> ago), as we have not discussed it in a very long time. I am not
> currently involved in any projects for the station that involve
> changing website aesthetics. I am, however, working with Misha and
> Ryan on a broad-scale overhaul of the catalog. This should come as no
> surprise to anyone, since it was announced that we were having an
> inventory meeting and were seeking volunteers to assist with this
> initial stage of the project. It wouldn't be right of me to discuss
> the New Catalog in any greater detail because the end-results might
> change, and I wouldn't want people to say, "well this is nice, but
> Shawn said the new catalog was going to have the ability to [[[-
> INSERT-
> NAME-OF-MAGNIFICENT-NEW-FEATURE-HERE-]]]..."
>
> The task for which I am soliciting help from others has been
> sanctioned. Basically, it involves creating a digital database/
> spreadsheet/list of all non-cataloged items at the station (most
> notably, the stuff on the Club-Metal-Blues shelves in the back room).
> This way deejays can consult the computer before traipsing back there
> to hunt something down, assuming that it's even there to hunt for in
> the first place.
>

In that case we already have a sql database, the one we are currently
using. The only need is a field to be added for genra (Club-Metal-Blues)
and that's it...

I just talk with Ryan. You should have a message from him in your box
soon Shawn....