Enacting an environmental monitoring plan for your institution can be overwhelming. With so many different options, we want to make it easier for you to select the best monitoring devices for your needs.
Things to consider
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What do you want to monitor?
- Objects can be highly sensitive to light exposure, changes in temperature and relative humidity
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What accuracy do you need?
- Look for devices that have been tested and validated by industry standards, and consider seeking recommendations from other museums or conservation professionals
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The device's ease of use and accessibility
- It's important to ensure the data collected can be easily accessed and understood
- Look for devices with user-friendly interfaces, clear displays, and intuitive software
- This increases the device's effectiveness and empowers staff with varying technical skills
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How data is collected
- Does it require manual downloading?
- Is it done wirelessly?
- Some devices even offer remote monitoring, providing real-time updates and alerts, enabling you to respond quickly to environmental changes
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Cost and maintenance
- Budget is often the deciding factor when selecting an environmental monitoring device, and you'll want to consider each device from various viewpoints before purchasing
- When considering the total cost of ownership, consider the initial purchase price, installation costs and ongoing maintenance expenses like recalibration
- Be sure to consider the human cost of the device as well - how often will a person have to go around and collect the data?
Ultimately, your goal is to ensure the best possible conditions for your collections. You can take a significant step towards achieving this goal by selecting the best environmental monitoring device for your needs.
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