Chapter 4. Methods of Diagnosis

Abstract

One of the significant gaps in library troubleshooting literature is methods of diagnosis. Chapter 4 of Library Technology Reports (vol. 58, no. 7), “Methods of Diagnosis,” attempts to fill this gap by reviewing trends and common methods of diagnosis for both reactive and proactive troubleshooting. We discuss the DECSAR troubleshooting methodology; diagnosis techniques of re-creation, elimination, backtracking, and half-splitting; and tools such as link checkers, screen capture programs, OpenURL editors, and other remote-access troubleshooting tools. We also discuss proactive troubleshooting, analyzing problem reports, and access checks.