Evaluating DSpace for an industrial application

Asary, Gavin

Evaluating DSpace for an industrial application

Thesis / Dissertation

2024

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Computer Science

Faculty

Faculty of Science

Abstract

The industrial sector is experiencing challenges in managing the escalating complexity and volume of digital content. Traditional Enterprise Content Management (ECM) systems often fall short in addressing these sophisticated needs, leading to inefficient data handling and potential loss of crucial information. This problem is critical as it directly impacts operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and decision-making processes within industries. This study proposes the adaptation of DSpace, a tool predominantly used in academic settings, for industrial digital content management in a downstream oil and gas environment in the Western Cape. The goal of the study is to bridge the gap between academic and industry practices in digital content management by examining how DSpace can meet the intricate demands of a business setting. An online survey assessed the toolkit's functionality, usability, and impact on user experience within the industrial context. Participants, varying in IT proficiency, provided critical insights into the toolkit's adaptability to industrial needs. The results indicate that DSpace is a viable option for businesses seeking efficient digital repository or content management systems. It excels in usability, content management, search capabilities, and metadata handling, suggesting that, with certain adaptations and enhancements, DSpace could meet the requirements of end-users and administrators in an industrial environment. However, the study also identifies limitations and areas where DSpace differs from traditional ECM systems, indicating potential avenues for adaptation. Specific industrial demands may necessitate further investigation and customisation. This study opens new possibilities for digital content management in industries and advances practices in digital repository management, suggesting that academic solutions like DSpace could be reimagined for commercial use with the right modifications.