Chicago Library Systems - eBusiness Registration
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Challenge
The Chicago Library System ("CLS") was established in 1966 under the authority of the Illinois Library Systems Act. CLS is one of 12 multi-type library systems in the State of Illinois and was established as a multi-type library system in 1990. Using funding it receives through an area and per capita grant from the State of Illinois, CLS provides its members with multiple services addressing a wide range of library needs, including:
- Continuing education for staff of member libraries;
- Reference back-up for members;
- Consulting on library automation;
- General consulting on library-related issues; and,
- Advocacy for issues related to libraries and grants.
Faced with an increase in the number of courses CLS was able to provide, and the excessive administrative workload of the continuing education department, CLS knew that increased automation was required. CLS envisioned an Internet solution that could manage course posting, attendee registration, and invoicing to CLS members.
Solution
Bronner was contracted to define, develop, and implement an eBusiness and course registration solution for the Chicago Library System and its member libraries. The scope included the definition of all requirements as they relate to member billing and course registration processes, the development of an interactive script to integrate the current accounting system with the database, and the development of a dynamic, and interactive Internet site.
Results
Using ASP coding, a SQL server database, and Visual Basic applications, Bronner successfully completed an integrated eBusiness and course registration system for CLS.
Utilizing a secured login, the member libraries now have billing and registration capabilities in a dynamic database-driven web site. The ability to find, view, and pay outstanding invoices saves both CLS and libraries' administration time while the integration with accounting software increases CLS' financial controls.
Displaying courses and facilitating the registration process have been dramatically improved for CLS by a dynamic web site that does not need updating by CLS staff and allows for on-line registration. Additionally, the member libraries now have the most up-to-date course schedules as well as access to their organization's registration statistics through the Internet.
