Rabu, 03 September 2014

Vital Considerations Before Archival Digitization

By Harriet Porter


The benefits of digitization can only be enjoyed if the process is handled in a professional manner. Archival digitization aims at preserving original documents in a format that allows access without deterioration. It simplifies transfer across the digital platform. The original transcripts are not destroyed and in case this happens, digital formats will be available for reference. You should consider several vital points before beginning the procedure.

Safety of the materials remains your primary concern until completion of the project. This safety largely depends on their current condition. Old and dilapidated materials are prone to tear and disintegration in the process of digitizing. Professional preparation and handling minimizes damage and preserves the original transcripts for future reference and 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 necessitates treatment before scanning begins. Special treatment substances will be used to stabilize the materials in readiness for scanning. This will save you time instead of treating each item individually. Substances used for treatment protect original transcripts from damage during and after scanning.

Considerations should be made for temporary support with the aim of reducing interference. The support comes in the form of temporary storage or handling by a conservator. This will reduce your budget and allow you to digitize the materials at your convenience. Conservators allow you to plan your work well and thus simplify the process as well as reduce the cost.

Timing your digitization procedures is crucial for the success of your project. It should coincide with a time when there is little disturbance and the weather is perfect. This will minimize the possibility of damage on original manuscripts.

Some problems should catch your eye before commencing the process because of the possibility of slowing down scanning. The presence of creases and folds obscures images and text. Cockled photos, images and papers require flattening before you begin to digitize any material.

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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