Predicting Trends in Trend Predictions: dynamic collection management

Carol KeddieSharon Laverick

Outline of the session

Exploration of some key issues around these resources: What are trend predictions? Stock selection Industry product in academic context Accessibility Print to online Collection review Future developments

Introduction to Fashion Trend Prediction Packages• Focus•What are they• Frequency• Range of titles• Format

Forecasts that inspire.“We’re here to stimulate your creativity and nurture your

inspiration by keeping you up to date about emerging trends from every continent. In all realms - consumer and designer needs, expectations and behavior - the world is alive with social and aesthetic innovations and teeming with talent and desire. With so many signs pointing to the future and waiting to be noticed, our role is to carefully filter them and put them into perspective.

Stay aware to be prepared.”• http://nellyrodi.com/en/inspire

Stock selection: which packages to provide?

• Big investment, needs informed decision• Not fixed – meets changing interests in

departments• Who makes this decision?– Move from autocratic system to more

collaborative approach– Loss of expert knowledge, but increased

liaison

Product designed for industry use

• Adapting this for an academic context

• Commercially sensitive• Very expensive• Online - designed for up to 3

users

Accessibility

• Need to balance usage with security• Restrict use to DMU staff and students only • Fragile and vulnerable content• Size and format – problematic for shelving

Move from print to online content• Access to WGSN – Issues with colours,

textures and downloads eg flats gallery• Online products from forecasting

houses – only up to 3 users• However, impact on usage figures

Predictions in practice: using them in teaching

• Managing the use of these resources in teaching– Room bookings– Extra copies?

Dynamic management

• Consulting with academic staff• Agenda point on departmental staff

away day• Librarians presenting the main issues• Looking at usage figures• Staff survey

Future developments• More online content• Promotional activities – Trend

Festival in the autumn term• Extending usage to other

departments in Design