On Wed, 24 Apr 1996, Patty Nicholas wrote:

> Innopac
> . . .  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  * Another person says the only place
> that is cumbersome is the claiming process; cannot adjust the check in record
> from claiming - have to exit claiming to adjust the record.

We are a new Innopac serials module library, and I found that problem
tremendously time-consuming because at least half of the records that
wind up in our claims review file need their dates adjusted and are
not due for claiming.  So, I quit using the claims review function.
Instead, I use the powerful and flexible management list function to
capture the records with overdue issues, then I switch to the update
function where I can "update a review file" and work my way thru the
list, adjusting dates or "writing" claims, as appropriate.  Each claim
takes a few extra keystrokes this way, but the whole process takes less
time because I don't have to go back to the "non-claims" after I finish
the claims.  Also, since "finish the claims" is a goal seldom realized
in my periodicals public service office, my method is more accommodating
to interruptions -- I just note the number where I left off updating and
exit the update function, so when I go back the list is still ready,
unlike in the claims review function where you have to run the review
again if you exit in the middle.

Assuming that only Innopac users are still reading, and they will
understand this, here's the steps I follow:

1.  In "create lists" create a checkin record list, searching on the
checkin card, retaining the whole record (not each box separately).
Select "CLAIMON" dates Greater than x and "CLAIMON" dates less than y,
with x being an old date (I use 01-01-95) to screen out any blank ones,
such as on filled cards, and y being tomorrow's date.

2.  In the ordering and receiving subsystem, update records,
selecting the "review file" you created.  To claim, select "maintenance,"
"modify a box," "write a claim letter."

3.  In "serials processing" "claim overdue issues," skip the review step
and go right to "process claims."

I hope that's useful for somebody.  If you have a lot of too early claims,
I think it will be.

Judith Stokes
Serials Librarian
Rhode Island College
Providence, RI 02908

E-mail:  jstokes@ric.edu