Establish the major DVD film categories to be used by type or theme. Typical categories include, but are not necessarily limited to: action, animation, children, comedy, drama, family, horror, foreign, romance, science fiction, sports and suspense.
Determine subcategories within each major category (if desired). These might include, but are not limited to: adventure, history and myth. Comedies could be divided into romance, slapstick and sophomoric. Drama subcategories might include biographies, dramedies (a mix of comedy and drama), and real-life interpretations (of events rather than people). Science fiction could include fantasy, future predictions and traditional sci-fi.
Divide the collection into the categories decided upon in Step 1 above. Input each title into a computer database system.
Divide the collection into the established subcategories decided upon in Step 2, if applicable. Enter them into the database system as well.
Assign a cross-reference code to each DVD by actor and actress. For example, put all of Elvis’ films together; all of Marilyn Monroe’s films; and all of Humphrey Bogart’s films together. Then, whenever someone is in a mood for Bogie, it takes only seconds to find all the movies in the collection in which he starred.
Assign a cross-reference code by film age or time period of movie. Many movies have been remade over the years. For example, “King Kong” has been remade three times; “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” four times, under differing titles; and “The Three Musketeers” even more. Age cross-referencing will allow one to find the version he wants to see quickly. Lovers of classic films will particularly appreciate this type of cross-referencing.
Assign a cross-reference code to films about individuals, whether biographical or interpretive in nature.
Assign a cross-reference code for award-winning films (optional).
Assign any additional cross-referencing codes of personal choice (like movie sequels, prequels, or remakes).
Attach cross-referencing codes to each DVD and/or enter the films by cross-reference code into a computer database system.
Make category changes as the need is identified for them.