For decades, Koha ILS has been the trusted backbone of countless library systems around the globe. It revolutionized how libraries managed their collections, patrons, and circulation workflows. But as digital transformation accelerated, even Koha began showing its age in certain areas particularly in user engagement, live notifications, and seamless system integrations. Recognizing this, Omkar Kakeru, founder of PlayTech, set out once again to modernize how libraries function with the launch of InOut Plus v1.0.
This is not just another tech upgrade this is a movement to bridge gaps that have long hindered the full potential of library automation.
The Problem: Koha’s Growing Pains
Koha has always been a robust and flexible solution. But as institutions began adopting newer user-experience standards, several limitations became apparent:
- No live alerts for book availability or overdue reminders.
- Fragmented OPAC experiences that weren’t mobile-optimized or easy to navigate.
- Inefficient workflows for librarians juggling circulation, cataloging, and patron communications.
- Integration challenges with modern APIs and third-party platforms.
These may sound like minor roadblocks, but together they slow down operations, frustrate users, and hinder libraries from being truly digital-first.
The PlayTech Response: InOut Management System & the Birth of Plus
Back in 2017, Omkar Kakeru launched the original InOut Management System to streamline attendance and administrative tracking in educational institutions. Its impact was immediate and powerful—it introduced a smoother, automated approach for managing day-to-day campus activities.
But Mr. Kakeru knew the work wasn’t done. Libraries were still lagging. And so, after years of refining feedback from educators and librarians, he and the PlayTech team created InOut Plus v1.0.
What Is InOut Plus v1.0?
InOut Plus isn’t a replacement for Koha; it’s a strategic layer on top of it. Designed to extend Koha’s capabilities rather than compete with them, InOut Plus addresses the key shortcomings that modern libraries struggle with.
Key Features Include:
- Real-Time Notifications: Students and faculty are instantly notified about due books, new arrivals, or reserved item availability via push, email, or SMS.
- Smart OPAC: A completely redesigned Online Public Access Catalog that’s mobile-friendly, visually intuitive, and designed for ease-of-use.
- Central Dashboard: A powerful interface for librarians to view real-time status updates, circulation summaries, and overdue trends.
- Multi-Platform Integration: InOut Plus can connect with other educational platforms, messaging apps, or even campus ERP systems.
- User Analytics: Gain insights into reading habits, peak borrowing hours, and most-demanded categories—all to inform better acquisitions and policies.
The Outcome: Smart Libraries, Happier Patrons
Early adopters of InOut Plus v1.0 report remarkable improvements:
- Reduction in overdue returns by over 30%, thanks to automated reminders.
- Higher OPAC engagement, particularly from mobile users.
- Increased operational efficiency, allowing library staff to focus on meaningful tasks rather than chasing admin overhead.
- Greater satisfaction among students, who feel more connected and informed about their library usage.
Educational institutions, both small and large, are now rethinking their library strategies—not just to digitize, but to optimize.
A Vision Rooted in Experience
What sets InOut Plus apart is the clarity of its vision. Omkar Kakeru isn’t just a technologist—he’s someone who has worked hand-in-hand with the education sector for over a decade. His ability to anticipate challenges and build solutions that are scalable, affordable, and deeply relevant is what makes PlayTech’s products resonate.
With a deep respect for Koha’s legacy and an eye on the future, InOut Plus v1.0 is built to evolve. And as newer versions roll out, PlayTech has hinted at upcoming integrations with AI for book recommendations, voice-based search tools, and even blockchain for secure digital lending.
Final Thoughts: Not Just a Tool A Turning Point
InOut Plus v1.0 is more than a tech solution; it’s a philosophy shift. It recognizes that libraries are not static book repositories but dynamic learning environments. By solving subtle but critical pain points, PlayTech empowers libraries to become smarter, more accessible, and deeply engaging.
For institutions still relying on Koha and looking to push their services to the next level, InOut Plus v1.0 isn’t just an option—it’s the evolution they’ve been waiting for.
For more information on InOut Plus v1.0 and its features, visit PlayTech’s official website or explore the InOut Management System on GitHub
Visit – https://playtech.in/inout/
Leave a Reply