|
Maine Antique Digest
February 2002 More Software, More On Rare Books
by John P. Reid Collectify MyStuff
MyStuff for Windows is an interesting new program for collectors from Collectify LLC. It has a different look from the usual collection inventory program. The navigation controls resemble a Web browser, with Back and Forward buttons and underlined links to various functions and items.
It is not possible to list the fields or types of information that MyStuff records for collected objects because the fields can be different for each kind of object. Thirty different object types are built in, running alphabetically from animation art to watches, with such types as dolls, furniture, jewelry, and paintings in-between. Furthermore, you can create your own object types and field names.
MyStuff can record multiple collections and allows different passwords for each collection. Any one collection can contain multiple object types. For example, a personal inventory might include records for furniture, china, and carpets. Each object record would have information fields appropriate to that object. Virtual collections can be formed, drawing objects from several collections for viewing in a different context.
Entering information in a collection is simple. A series of screens appear asking for every possible detail from size and description to provenance and appraisal. The inappropriate fields can be skipped, but it takes it little time to click through the screens.
Locating a record is simple as well. A search function will locate all records containing a specified word or phrase. Pages of thumbnail pictures also help find objects.
Pictures can be attached to object records, and they are handled unusually well by MyStuff. Most common graphic formats arc accepted, including the important BMP (Windows bitmap) and JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group). Pictures from a scanner, digital camera, or the World Wide Web can be stored, and multiple pictures can be attached to any one object record.
One of the pictures can be designated for use as the thumbnail for the object. Unlike other software, MyStuff is not 1 fussy about the thumbnail size or format. It will adjust to fit the space available. To conserve hard drive space, pictures should not be too large. Maximum dimensions of 600 x 600 pixels are appropriate but not necessary.
It is possible to attach other things to an object record. Scanned pages of reference material, appraisals, or insurance policies can be linked. Related Web pages can be stored.
Insurance renewal reminders and details of insurance claims can be recorded. Extensive notes can also be written and attached.
Version 1.0 of MyStuff had no provisions for printed reports. Version 1. 1 (free to users of version 1.0) adds the ability to print catalog pages. For more detailed reports, records can he exported to a dBase, Microsoft Access, or Microsoft Excel file. They can also be exported to a delimited text file, which can be read by other database or spreadsheet programs. Reports could then be printed by anyone familiar with these programs.
There, however, is one novel form of report available. Individual records or whole collections can be included in a computer slide show. An executable computer program is created that can be mailed on a floppy disc or CD-ROM or attached to e-mail. It will run on any Windows computer. The recipient can view the individual pictures. Clicking on a pic lure causes a summary of the object description to be displayed.
MyStuff works well with no glitches or lockups. Navigation is simple, especially for those familiar with Web browsing. It is rich in features, so it takes time to learn the software's potential. The printed user's guide is rather general. I'lie on-screen help has a little more detail, but the best way to learn is by playing with the sample database supplied.
Collectify LLC is at 60 East 42nd Street, Suite 3112, New York, NY 10165; Web site (www.collectify.com). MyStuff may be purchased on line at the Web site or by phone at (800) 932-5811. From outside the U.S. call (514) 932-1500. It costs $99.95 plus $7.50 for ground shipment. There are no shipping charges if it is downloaded, but its 27.1 megabyte file size makes it difficult to download on a dial-up connection. www.maineantiquedigest.com
|
