How to make a Community Archive
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Community archives are created using the Comma software, available from Commanet: the Community Archive Network.

The archives on the commanet website were produced by local groups, often based in community centers and libraries.

All you need is a PC computer, a scanner (100% TWAIN compatible) and the Comma software.

What is the Comma software

The (PC only) Comma software allows the simple entry of:

• Photographs
• Text
• Sounds
• Video
• You can add ‘Hot Spots’, which allow you to name individuals within a photograph.
• The software has been designed for installation and use by people with no knowledge of computers. Many of our users had never touched a mouse or even used a typewriter before starting.
• Training, often by older "peer group" trainers is available

Your finished or "work in progress" archive can be viewed on the computer, distributed as a CD ROM or put on the web.

Go to Getting Started to find out how to apply for funding

Commanet produce:

Comma 4 software package: £305

• CD ROM · Manual on CD
• From within Comma you can prepare files to cut to make a fully distributable CD ROM of your archive
• Free downloadable upgrades
• 3 months support contract from first support request

You can click on the button below to order, or contact sales@commanet.org

Commanet web hosting package: £905

• Full Comma software package
• Support and Web hosting on the Commanet server for three years
• Web can have as many images, reminiscences, sound clips and videos as can be returned on one backup CDR
• Several updates during hosting period

You can click on the button below to order, or contact sales@commanet.org

To try the software you can order a starter Pack for £5

This information is also available on the site and the Taster can be downloaded for free by clicking here.

You could also study the Full Comma manual by clicking here.

• A Taster CD Rom, allowing the entry of a limited number of picture, text, sound and video records
• How to set up a community archive group
• How to apply for funding
• Equipment specifications

Pay with PayPal

No charge for buyers

Alternatively click here for a form you can fill in and post