Archaeological archives form part of the tangible results created from research projects. They provide a means for project teams to disseminate new information in a transparent way and support interpretation of data. Through being open, accessible and reusable, archives provide ways for researchers, advisors, decision makers and communities to manage, explore and celebrate places now and in the future.
The Dig Digital toolkit is designed to support all practitioners across the UK and beyond. As the project is entering an implementation stage, the Archaeological Archives Forum is keen to raise awareness of available resources and to outline changes that have been made to CIfA Standards and guidance. The toolkit provides supplementary guidance for those creating archives destined for any trusted digital repository, with usable tools to support data management and implementation of good practice. Through inclusion and review of documentation throughout a project, the management of data can be responsive, proportionate and considered – securing a FAIR future for archaeological information.
The Joint Statement from the Archaeological Archives Forum has been endorsed by its members, including representative bodies from across the heritage sector and the UK. The statement highlights that all heritage professionals can support the effective management of digital data in archaeological projects.
Background
The Archaeological Archives Forum was formed in 2002 to link together in partnership all major parties with an interest in archaeological archives in order that common policies and practice can be developed and applied. The forum identifies opportunities to develop and implement actions necessary to further good practice in the field of archaeological archives across the sector.
The Dig Digital project is a Historic England funded initiative developed by the Archaeological Archives Forum and delivered by DigVentures with CIfA. The work has created a toolkit and resource to support everyday management of digital data in archaeological projects.
For more information, please contact:
Claire Tsang (Claire.Tsang@historicengland.org.uk)
Archaeological Archives Principal, Historic England
Secretary, Archaeological Archives Forum
Manda Forster (manda@digventures.com)
Project Lead, Dig Digital Project
Chief Operating Officer, DigVentures
Jen Parker Wooding (jen.parkerwooding@archaeologists.net)
Project Partner, Dig Digital Project
Senior Professional Standards & Practice Coordinator, CIfA
