Software For Stamp Collectors

Hi all -

Just wondering how you all organize and keep inventory of your stamps? I have heard some use spreadsheets, but I wonder if there any other specific go-to software used?

I am trying to figure out how I can best create a checklist of stamps by Slania. Having a software engineering background I am leaning towards creating something to help me with the process... but I thought I'd ask here first.

Does any database exist?

*** Moved by Staff to a more appropriate forum. ***

Thanks!

This has been asked/answered more than a few times, just search the forum for the relevant threads.

There are many, many stamp databases running from desktop based apps through SQL based interfaces. There are commercial offerings, there are non-commercial efforts.
Don

Here is a link for a Slania website. You also have the opportunity to purchase a checklist. (no affiliation).
https://www.ronnei.com/slania/index.html

Why would I keep a list of stamps? Any hobby is about filling in time, but filling in that time with ancillary stuff rather than the main body of the hobby doesn't appeal at all.

The only reason for keeping a list of stamps, I can think of, is when you would like to show another collector what you have or what you are missing before beginning a swap.

To index a collection for insurance purposes or again for showing others (without having to bring the collection itself), I use the path finder of whatever operating system I might use on my PC. The trick is to name the image files in a way that makes it easy to show the files in a chronological order. The folders can then be saved to a USB-stick or a smartphone for convenient browsing with others for show.

Insurance, and as a want list? Those are two good reasons.

There are a number of other very good reasons;
- a database is the best foundational archival methodology. Storing your content in a DB and not in a higher-level application level removes a lot of dependencies. Application-level technology changes annually, new versions, changing devices, etc. By having your content in a lower-level database gives you exponentially greater portability and reduces the risk of painting yourself into a corner.
- a database is by far the best platform for 'community projects' or crowd sourced efforts like cover census and stamp catalogs. The capability of data sharing and cross platform simply makes database the best choice for keeping data that you want to remain accessible long term.
Don

Don

Doubtless good reasons for many, just not for me. When I had a decent-sized record collection, I had complex lists of stuff, as well as lists of the Stax etc 45s I was missing. It kept me amused and out of trouble, but I could probably have found more entertaining ways to waste time. And I had maybe 3,000 albums and 8,000 singles - I have a lot more stamps.

@GeoffHa, the reason why I index my collection is to know what items to discard. I would kick myself for selling something unique or other hard to get items. This of course would not be a problem if I could remember every item that I have, but that is not the case.

The tool should be selected to meet the task.

I make a list before going to the grocery store. I do not create a database for it.

So far, Excel has been a happy medium to list/track the level of detail I need, as I would rather spend time collecting philatelic items than being tied to a computer.

Geoff, I completely understand where you are coming from. That said, I have used Excel to manage a long series of wants and haves lists since the early 1990s. I only buy stamps in complete sets, partial sets, and singles where appropriate. I do not buy large collections or country collections. So for a collector like me, I would be completely lost without knowing what I have and what I would like to find.

I don't mind the ancillary stuff. In the same manner that we all want a neat looking collection, I like having a relatively neat collecting environment, which includes good records to help guide me as I search for material. The other benefit of having a good have/want list for collectors who collect in complete sets is actually time savings. If I know exactly what I'm shooting for, I will spend a lot less time trying to find things.

I use StampManage to inventory my worldwide collection. The US and Machin collections are in Excel. The tool should support the need. If a beginner, you can start with free software (like Google, etc.) and eventually you will figure out earn what you need more.

To keep track of what I have / need, for two of my collections (MNH classic era and pre-1900 used SON), I simply use my Scott Classic catalogue, with different symbols placed next to each stamp I have, right next to their listings.

I've created and edited my Excel (Libre) spreadsheets for over 30 years. Create column headers that are meaningful to you; Scott #, description, color, denomination, quantity, and album (Scott, Harris, Minkus, etc.) work best for me. Use tabs in Excel for each country. I save a spreadsheet for each letter of the alphabet. You can also create want lists for your in person or online dealers. Dealers prefer typed or the handwritten, chicken-scratch lists.