Besides research sources, good quality tapes are essential for classroom instruction, media programming, museum exhibits, and other uses. Once you have planned your project, you will know the necessary requirements to conduct it. Now is the time to develop a budget. In discussing the budget here, we will look at the full range of options needed for an oral history project. Of course, some projects already will have office space or volunteer interviewers, so take the expenses that fit your project as you write up your budget.
Personnel includes project manager, support and office staff, interviewers, and transcribers.
Rates vary for these positions so check around your community for the going rate. Do not forget to include benefits when you calculate salaries. Supplies include paper, audio and video tapes, batteries, office supplies, computer supplies, and any other purchases that you need to ensure a smoothly operating office. Office space can be the most expensive part of your budget. Hopefully, your school or organization will already have an office that you can use.