Encoding the National Herbarium (PRE) for computerised information retrieval

This paper describes the operation of encoding information from 470 000 extant herbarium labels for accession to a computer data bank with a view to aiding curators and systems analysts who may wish to apply similar procedures in their herbaria. The preparation of the herbarium, encoding procedures used, verification of encoded information, costs and remuneration of encoders are described. A complete list of items encoded and their code equivalents is given. Some of the difficulties faced during the operation are discussed and the success of the project to date is evaluated briefly. Its success is attributed to a bonus incentive scheme and availability of a comprehensive instruction manual.