Planning is necessary in selecting the appropriate digital asset management system for your institution. Key issues one should consider in planning: the objects to be stored, where they come from, and how they will be accessed; the end users; and the needed staffing levels for system maintenance. During the development of the system requirements, think about the scope and objectives of projects and the business, functional, and testing requirements. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of open-source and vendor-provided software. Talking with similar institutions and other customers about their experiences can provide valuable insight and advice. (Contains 6 notes.)