The Construction Board of the Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Familia has boldly embraced modernization and accessibility. They have implemented an integrated management and dissemination system for collections, utilizing Coeli technology. In this article, we delve into the development of this Digital Assets Management project. We start by detailing the migration process. Then, we cover the steps to the online publication of the heritage collection. This transition not only preserves the legacy but also enhances global access to these cultural treasures.
The primary goal of this project centers on enhancing the management of the Sagrada Família collection. Consequently, we aim to optimize the dissemination of this heritage online to fully realize its potential. Moreover, the project involves implementing an integrated solution for managing the collection. This comprehensive system will handle over 100,000 records. Also, it encompasses Movable Goods, such as the Museum and Original Fragments. Additionally, it includes the vast resources of the Documentation Center, covering the Archive, Newspaper Library, Library, Posters, and Plan Library. This integration will streamline Digital Assets Management across all platforms.
The Comprehensive Solution: Coeli Digital Assets Management (DAM)
Initially, experts performed a detailed analysis of the foundation’s existing collections. They used the old database managed by Inmagic DB/TextWorks, aiming to propose an efficient migration. This shift focused on moving to an interoperable online environment for Digital Assets Management. The process involved normalizing data, including individuals, organizations, dates, and chronological periods. Additionally, they adjusted and configured the tool concerning data, metadata schemas, and user permissions. Moreover, this phase included data consolidation to enhance usability and boost performance in managing Digital Assets.
In this context, it is worth noting that Coeli has a set of tools that allow for bulk file uploads, enabling imports from SQL systems or executing batch loading processes of records, loading approximately:
- 80,000 PDF documents
- 62,000 images of Movable Goods and the Documentation Center
- 8,300 links to 3D models of Movable Goods
For setting up the online collection website, the foundation’s team determined how to group digital assets on the main page. These groupings followed a generic classification of movable goods such as architectural projects, sculptures, and paintings. Additionally, they designed the configuration of the results list to improve the user experience. Finally, they chose which fields to display in the item details, including the title, authors, and production date. This setup also featured the generic classification, object name, materials and techniques used, and dimensions.
The Results
The Sagrada Familia team now employs Coeli Enterprise to enhance heritage comprehensively. This Digital Assets Management system covers everything from cataloging and conserving heritage assets to exporting reports and publishing online.
Moreover, the Sagrada Familia has made a significant part of its movable goods collection accessible online. This selection includes 200 works by Gaudí and his collaborators, featuring the Nativity facade model and a section of Casa Vicens’ fence. Over time, the team plans to expand this access to all citizens.
Additionally, the institution has enhanced internal knowledge sharing. They’ve integrated a search engine into their corporate intranet, improving the ability of technical teams to access and utilize the collections and resources.
Regarding database synchronization, the team utilizes a WordPress plugin that supports on-demand updates. This setup allows quick data synchronization in the dissemination web environment with a single click, instead of real-time updates.
Furthermore, the Sagrada Familia team has streamlined collaboration across various departments. By centralizing the institution’s databases, they foster a cohesive work environment. The team is also expanding into new areas such as exhibition management and modules for conservation and restoration, enhancing departmental efficiency.
In conclusion, this initiative marks a vital advancement in high-quality, modern, and accessible heritage management. It underscores a strong commitment to preserving and disseminating the institution’s cultural legacy through effective Digital Assets Management.
About Coeli
Coeli is the best Digital Assets Management (DAM) for museums, archives, libraries, art galleries, and more. We provide easy-to-use solutions for cataloging, collection management, and publishing collections online. Let’s empower your collection with our collection’s software.
