ETD on a shoestring

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe how, with minimal budget, lots of goodwill, and successful collaboration, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) – at the time Ontario's newest university, could rapidly build an ETD collection. Design/methodology/approach – The project was sponsored by the UOIT library. DSpace was selected as the software platform. The paper describes the collaboration between the library, the faculty of graduate studies and the campus information technology department which resulted in the successful launch of the ETD program, Ontario's first example of establishing a born digital theses program and publishing platform. Findings – Innovative and risk-taking approaches combined with intra- and inter-organizational collaboration were the key factors contributing to success of the library ETD project. Originality/value – This case study emphasizes the value of entrepreneurial thinking. Other organizations can learn from the pitfalls and benefits encountered during the implementation of this project.