Collections Management Software
Specify 7
The next generation of collections management — a fully web-based, open-source platform built for the way modern collections work. Specify 7 brings powerful data management, flexible workflows, and institutional-grade security to any device, anywhere in the world.
Built for modern collections
Specify 7 is the culmination of 30+ years of collections management expertise, redesigned for a web-first world. Whether you manage a dozen specimens or tens of millions, Specify 7 scales to meet your needs.
Access from anywhere
A pure web application — no desktop software to install or maintain. Staff, curators, and collaborators access your collection through any modern browser, from any device, on any network.
Enterprise-grade security
Single Sign-On (SSO) integration supports all OpenID-compliant institutional identity providers. Fine-grained role and policy controls let administrators grant precisely the access each user needs — from read-only guest accounts to full collection managers.
Collaborative digitization
Share a live specimen database with remote partners, visiting researchers, or distributed volunteer teams — no VPN or campus network required. Specify 7 was designed to support large-scale, multi-institution digitization projects from the ground up.
Bulk data import & editing
Bring large datasets in quickly and keep them accurate at scale. WorkBench lets you map, validate, and import spreadsheets of specimen data directly into your collection, while Batch Edit makes it easy to update thousands of records at once — no scripting required.
Accessibility-first design
Specify 7 is WCAG 2.1 AA compliant and built with accessibility as a core principle. Full screen reader support, customizable color schemes, motion reduction, and respect for system preferences for language, date format, and theme make it work for everyone.
Open source & Docker-ready
All Specify 7 server code is publicly available on GitHub. Official Dockerized compositions let you choose a version, configure your environment, and launch a fully functional instance with a single command — and update it just as easily when new releases ship.
Deployment options
Every institution is different. Specify 7 is designed to fit your infrastructure — whether you run your own servers or prefer to let our team handle the technical overhead.
Specify Cloud
RecommendedLet our team manage everything. With Specify Cloud, we handle provisioning, backups, security patching, software updates, and 24/7 uptime. Your staff can focus entirely on your collections. Our hosted members also receive faster support, interface customization assistance, report and label development, and direct support from our engineering team.
- ✓ Fully managed by the Specify team, data owned by you
- ✓ Automatic software updates and security patches
- ✓ 24/7 availability with routine backups
- ✓ Priority support and interface customization
Self-hosted
Run Specify 7 on your own infrastructure — on-premises servers, a campus data center, or a cloud provider of your choice. The Docker-based deployment makes installation straightforward, and our open-source codebase gives your IT team full visibility and control. Detailed documentation and community support are available to guide every step of setup, configuration, and upgrades.
- ✓ Full control over your data and environment
- ✓ Deploy on any Linux server or cloud provider
- ✓ Docker Compose setup with single-command launch
- ✓ Integrate with your existing IT infrastructure
Ready to see Specify 7 in action?
Explore our live demo instance, or get in touch with our team to discuss installation, migration, hosting, and membership options tailored to your institution.