Error-mining In Your Aleph-Oracle Database

Abstract

Errors and inconsistencies can creep into your Aleph data through the initial conversion process, staff inattention, and other routes. Many are innocuous, but some can cause problems with retrieval or even with functionality. We will look at ways to use SQL to discover and list errors and inconsistencies in order to correct them before they cause trouble. Simple queries on both administrative records (items, orders, patrons) and bibliographic records can identify potential errors. More complex queries can find inconsistencies and create input for Aleph batch services like manage-62 and the patron loader, to correct errors once they’re found. I present a rapid tour of such techniques with a focus on practical problem-solving.