1. OHMS Overview

OHMS is a system designed to enhance access to online oral histories (or other time-based media) efficiently and affordably. The primary purpose of OHMS is to create a framework, space, and user interface to enhance the search and discovery of information in online audio and video by connecting textual searches of a synchronized transcript or of an index to the corresponding moments in the online audio and video sources. OHMS was designed to create an interoperable and sustainable framework using simple, open formats and technologies. There are two primary components of the OHMS system: The OHMS Application: The OHMS application, integrated with the Aviary platform, is the free, online space where the preparation of resources is completed. This is the back end, web-based application where metadata is imported or created, transcripts are uploaded and synchronized, or descriptive indexes are created. Upon completion, the interview record, which includes the synchronized transcript and/or time-coded index, is exported as a simple XML file. When this XML file is located on a web server, it interfaces with the content management system through the OHMS Viewer. OHMS is integrated into the Aviary Platform. Accounts are free. The OHMS Viewer: The OHMS viewer is where the public interacts with a resource prepared for public access using the OHMS Application. When a user clicks on the appropriate link, the OHMS viewer loads. The viewer combines select interview-level metadata and the intra-interview-level or segment-level metadata with the audio or video player. The OHMS viewer utilizes a built-in player for delivering the directly-linked audio/video. Additionally, OHMS is also designed to work with Kaltura, YouTube, Vimeo, Avalon, and SoundCloud streaming solutions. See more information, go to Section 12.