Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Exhibition Design • Relative Humidity Control • Condition Reporting

Database Management

Term from Museum Curation industry explained for recruiters

Database Management in museums refers to organizing and maintaining digital records of artifacts, exhibitions, and collections. It's like having a well-organized digital filing cabinet where museum staff can easily store, find, and update information about every item in their collection. This includes details like an object's history, location, condition, and when it was last displayed or restored. Museum professionals use special software designed for cultural institutions to keep track of everything, similar to how a library uses a system to track books. Common museum database systems include PastPerfect, TMS (The Museum System), and CollectionSpace.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained and updated Database Management systems for over 10,000 archaeological artifacts

Implemented new Collection Database procedures that improved artifact tracking efficiency

Led staff training sessions on Museum Database Management software and best practices

Typical job title: "Collections Database Managers"

Also try searching for:

Collections Manager Registrar Collections Database Administrator Museum Records Manager Collections Information Manager Digital Collections Coordinator Museum Database Specialist

Where to Find Collections Database Managers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage a large-scale collection database migration project?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in planning data transfers between systems, ensuring data integrity, training staff, and maintaining daily operations during the transition.

Q: What strategies would you implement to improve the quality of collection records?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should include establishing data standards, regular auditing processes, staff training programs, and methods for enriching existing records with new research.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure consistency in collection records across different departments?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standardized data entry procedures, maintaining controlled vocabularies, and coordinating between curators, registrars, and other staff.

Q: What experience do you have with museum database software?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name specific museum database systems they've used and explain how they've used them for tasks like tracking loans, managing exhibitions, and generating reports.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the essential components of a collection object record?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic elements like object ID, title/name, measurements, materials, condition, location, and provenance information.

Q: How do you maintain accurate location records for collection objects?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic location tracking procedures, regular inventory checks, and the importance of updating records when objects move.