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Friday, August 29, 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.

Safety of original transcripts is key consideration to avoid damage during or at the end of the project. The current condition will determine the measures to be taken to guarantee safety. Old and dilapidated transcripts are prone to tear or disintegration when being digitized. Handling in a professional way ensures that the materials are safe for reference and to preserve their sentimental value.

Preparation should consider the risks involved when digitizing with the view of finding an alternative. The alternative aims at giving value and ensuring that materials maintain their original condition. Advanced digitizing equipment and a better working space are perfect ways to reduce the risk. Such materials should be exposed to minimized handling for successful completion of the process.

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.

The condition of some materials may necessitate treatment before scanning. Special substances are used depending on their nature. Directions on the method of treatment and substances to use are given by your consultant. Treatment is meant to preserve the authentic look on the materials.

To reduce interference and facilitate planning, temporary storage and conservatory services may be sort. This gives ample time for planning and creates the space you require to digitize all the materials available. This provides convenience in access, simplifies the process and brings down the cost of digitizing.

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.

The process is likely to be slowed down by certain issues if they are not adequately addressed. Folds and creases obscure some images, text or pictures and are likely to affect the quality of scanned images. Papers, photos and images that are cockled must be straightened before commencement.

Tears on pages that exceed quarter an inch must be addressed. A loose spine, board or joint where the book is bound needs attention. This affects the speed of scanning and may accelerate damage on the book. Other books cannot open beyond 90 degrees and will be problematic to work with.

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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