Prepared to open on May 1, the Wright Museum of WWII has its sights set on upgrading its back-office operations to the cloud, a move Executive Director Mike Culver said underscores critical needs.
“We are working with a server, software and computers close to ten years old, much of which is not even supported anymore,” he said. “With staff often working remotely and the need to ensure all our information is as secure as possible, the cloud is our only option.”
Recently, The Wright received a $3,000 grant from the McIninch Foundation to upgrade its collections management software to a newer cloud-based program. This software will not only streamline how the collection is managed, it will enable the museum to share it with the public.
“The pandemic has us thinking in new and creative ways,” added Culver. “We have a beautiful 20,000 square foot facility here with plenty of space, but we need to focus on digital access to our collection and improve our back-office systems. This is an important time for many cultural institutions, as we seek to operate under the ‘new normal.’’
As for the anticipated costs of moving to the cloud, Culver estimated $10,000.
“We have been working with a local consultant who has really helped us understand what is needed and how to get there,” he said. “The hope is we can find partners — local foundations, sponsors and individuals — to help fund this project.”
If funding can be secured, Culver said the impact would be “tremendous,” as he cited the project would “help define the Wright for many years.”
“From how we store information and share our collection to how we communicate with our supporters and the general public, our entire operation would change,” he said.
The region’s leading resource for educators and learners of all ages on World War II, The Wright features more than 14,000 items in its collection that are representative of both the homefront and battlefield.
If you would like to help the Wright Museum reach the cloud, you can make a donation here – thanks for your support!
