top of page

PastPerfect

PastPerfect falls in the center of the access spectrum because of the flexibility of its services, however, it leans toward back-end functions because of its specialty in item cataloging and management. PastPerfect is a collections management software created by PastPerfect Software Inc. specifically for museums. Over 10,000 institutions have purchased PastPerfect's services, making them the amongst the most widely used museum software. Their tools allow users to catalog, manage, and track extensive collections. PastPerfect, through their optional add-ons, allows users to provide comprehensive object management that truly spans storage to public access. Because many of the features that allow for this must be purchased separately, it gives institutions the flexibility to not pay for more than they need. PastPerfect prides themselves on keeping their prices low so that they can remain affordable to large and small institutions alike. 

Licensing

Proprietary

$870 to purchase basic software ($696 for institutional members)

Licensing

System 

Requirements

Windows XP or higher

512 MB RAM

CD-ROM Drive

System Requirements

Usability

Built with museum professionals in mind 
Tech support available for purchase 

Usability

Administration

Manage memberships, payments, and track patrons 

Manage donors: store contact information and automatic thank you letter function

With purchase of network upgrade PastPerfect to be used across multiple computers 

Administration

Content 

Management

Nomenclature 4 Museum Cataloging Standards

Offer data conversion services for $80/hour

Content Managament

Target Market

Institutions with a large diverse collection and at least a moderate budget

Target Market

Inventory Manager Upgrade

With the purchase of this upgrade users can print and scan item barcodes, auto-generate targeted lists, and globally update inventory information

Inventory Manager Upgrade

Web Resources

Youtube webinars, online classes, and extensive Knowledge Base support forum 
Formal support can be purchased 

Web Resources

PastPerfect Online in Action

For an additional fee, users can publish their collections and create virtual exhibits. Check out the examples below! 

Stanford University Archaeology Collection

The Center for Art in Wood

Battleship North Carolina Online Collection

PastPerfect Online in Action

PastPerfect is currently a popular choice for institutions who have a moderate budget and an interest in outsourcing their technical support.  Although web-publishing services can be purchased, their strength is in collections management. It may be a good choice for more traditional institutions who are more concerned with developing their physical collections than cultivating a digital presence. 

source: PastPerfect http://www.museumsoftware.com/

© 2018 by Elizabeth Phyle

© 2018 Access Spectrum Reviewers

bottom of page