Example: BestSeller's
WebSuite Start, a starter system for a small
library.
Shareware:
Example: Robert Pascas's
The School Library System
Low-cost:
A few hundred dollars to a
several thousand.
Example: A full implementation
of CASPR's LibraryWorld / LibraryNet can be purchased
for under $10,000
These are targeted largely at
small libraries with a few terminals.
Moderate to
Outrageous
Fully integrated, "turn-key"
(the computer and network hardware and software are ready to
run) LAS with all the desired functional modules can cost from
tens of thousands to millions of dollars for a large-scale
"turn-key" system
These systems are primarily
targeted at medium-to large libraries, often providing the
capability of integrating library operations and data in dozens
of branches.
What Affects
Pricing
Reputation
Innovative Interface's Innopac
has the reputation of being the Mercedes of LAS. The company
charges accordingly.
But is it the best
system?
How much of the following a
library wants:
Hand-holding
Consultation
Training
Equipment costs
What hardware is
required?
Can existing systems in the
library be used?
What networking equipment is
required?
Complexity of the
system
How many LAS functional
modules are desired?
How many branches are being
handled?
How many interfaces
(proprietary, Web-based, text-based) are being
provided?
Licensing costs of the
underlying database
This can be, in larger
systems, in the tens of thousands of dollars.
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