SirsiDynix Synphony - Workflows Staff Client is essential software for Libraries
Use Cases and Deployment Scope
Symphony is the full suite product. We already have an Administrator who manages the entire package.
My use case is the Workflows Client, which is part of Symphony. Our librarians are the primary users of Workflows, but we use it up in our IT office as well, to locate users or to update circulation notes for IT-related checkout items. We also provide user support by configuring the Client to work on individual Staff computers on our network. We also installed the card readers recently so that our libraries could accept credit and debit cards for Patron fines or other billing issues.
This Workflows Staff Client allows librarians to check items in or out, allows for Patrons to pay fines or renew items, it allows for paying by credit or debit card with additional card reader hardware installed, setting items on hold, or transferring items between branches. The software also runs reports overnight, which the librarians use the following morning to put away books or to check the accrued fines.
Pros
- Checking items in and out - this would be the primary use of this product.
- Creating notes for specific items or specific users.
- Setting up library cards for users (setting up profile information.)
Cons
- There are a lot of options in Workflows Client, and editing a Circulation Note is not possible from everywhere you can see the note. It can only be done from a specific screen.
Most Important Features
- Setting up profiles when signing up new library cards for Patrons.
- Checking items (books, CDs, WiFi Hotspots, etc.), in and out.
- Transferring items between branches.
Return on Investment
- It's an essential product for librarian Staff.