Thursday 28 August 2014

Vital Considerations Before Archival Digitization

By Harriet Porter


Digitizing materials is informed by unique reasoning. Success in this process depends on how well you plan and the consultants you involve. Planning for archival digitization should bear in mind a number of factors. The idea is to preserve your records in digital format without destroying the original scripts. Each item should be given individualized attention depending on its condition.

Before commencing with the project, you should identify if the materials can be safely handled up to the end of the project without damage. Some may be too old to the point of disintegrating during scanning. This will require a professional to ensure that you do not damage original transcripts in the name of preserving them.

The risk of damage must be identified and alternatives or the best options sort. The aim is to identify the best equipment that will guarantee high quality preservation. A better working space might be required to protect the items from damage. Such equipment should simplify the procedure and minimize handling challenges.

Personnel handling the project should have necessary skills. Since every project is unique, a briefing and initial evaluation is important. It helps in building consensus and devising the best approach depending on the uniqueness of each project. It minimizes the time taken to complete your project or the need to repeat procedures.

There is need to treat some materials before scanning. This is informed by their condition. Some materials and surfaces require special substances. Your consultant on archival services will offer directions in this regard. This will reduce the time taken to digitize the materials. Treatment will preserve your materials in their original state.

The services of a conservator should be considered alongside temporary storage. They allow you to sort materials in different classes as well as make concrete plans for your project. They facilitate planning to create an ideal space where the work can be completed. This will reduce the cost of the entire project and the time taken.

Digitizing should be scheduled to take place at the perfect time. Taking less time reduces cost and minimizes exposure to damage. Some conditions are likely to expose different materials to damage and therefore compromise your expectations.

There are problems that are worth identifying before beginning to digitize the materials. Some texts or images may be obscured by folds and creases. Such problems should be corrected before commencement of work. Some papers, images or photos may be cockled and therefore require flattening before beginning any procedure.

Torn pages or papers that are longer than quarter an inch need to be addressed. Some books are likely to have loose spines, boards and joints. Such books will present a huge challenge when placing them on the scanner and will slow down the process. Some methods of binding are restricted and can only open less than ninety degrees.

The success of your digitization process largely depends on the preparations you make. This calls for consultation with reliable experts who have the personnel, tools and experience to handle any project. They will offer directions to ensure that you complete the process in time and within your estimated budget. They also shield your items from damage.




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