Define the Purpose
Record what will be digitised, for whom, and under which access rights. Give the original a stable identifier before capture.
Methodology · Digital Archive
Digitisation: From Plan to Reliable Copy
A consistent digitisation process that preserves each file's connection to its original, rights, and context.
At a glance
Why this guide matters
A useful digital copy belongs to a managed archive rather than standing alone. The plan covers selection, capture, checking, description, and backup.
Material status
This is an editorial guide for the initiative’s development version. It explains an approach and does not replace professional medical, legal or financial advice.
Practical route
Three steps for responsible work
Begin with context, record decisions and preserve each person’s right to revisit the terms.
Capture and Check
Capture the material consistently and with minimal handling. Check completeness, orientation, clarity, and correspondence to the original before finishing.
Organise the Files
Separate the master copy from publication versions. Preserve process notes, rights, metadata, and backups in an understandable structure.
Working checklist
What to check before moving on
- Link each filename to the original's stable identifier.
- Document equipment, settings, and the copy creation date.
- Check every sequence for omissions and duplicates.
- Keep backups separate from the working set.
Both photographs on this page are unique object-based AI illustrations. They do not depict real people, traditions or places.
FAQ
Common questions
Can a phone be used for digitisation?
It can be a capture tool when the result is stable, complete, and checked against the project's purpose.
Why keep a master copy?
It remains the controlled source file from which versions for different uses can be created.
Have experience or expert insight?
Tell us how you could contribute. Material is published only after rights, sources and consent have been reviewed.