Welcome to my Digital Archiving Blog

This is the temporary location for the Dkives Digital Archiving Blog until I get my webpage up and running next month. This weekly blog will cover topics dealing with the preservation and management of electronic records of permanent legal, historical or fiscal value. I will be sharing and commenting on news articles of interest to share my interpretation of how this affects digital archiving with my fellow archivists and IT professionals who are interested in this sector. There will also be comments on new and upcoming technologies and their potential impact on electronic record preservation. If you ask for it, I will also cover the basics of network technologies, database design and management and the basics of programming - I am finishing an Interdisciplinary Master's Degree in Business Administration and Computer Science so I know a little something about something. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with you and encourage you to post your comments, questions and links that you find. If you have a burning question about archiving or technology, go ahead and ask me, I love the challenge and open dialog.-Adam adam@dkives.com

Understanding the importance of media relations,Pt 1

I cannot stress enough the importance of forging and maintaining strong media relations. Archives tend to be viewed as dusty, musty places where old 'things' go to die. Legislators and public officials specifically need to understand the importance of the function of the archives, while creating a ground swell of citizen concern. One of the better ways to generate the understanding of the 'public value' (a concept I will cover in an upcoming blog) is an often difficult process for archives with limited resources, staff and media expertise. I recently completed a feasibility study for the Nebraska State Historical Society on their institution capacity to support a digital archiving initiative. Shortly after the final version was submitted to the Society and Secretary of State, the JournalStar ran a great article in their Sunday edition about how history is being lost due to the electronic nature of today's communication (Note the sidebar article discussing the feasibility study - already starting to make the case for increased funding and staff). By increasing public awareness -- and the distribution of several hundred copies to key legislators and stakeholders, important education and outreach can be accomplished. NSHS will find more doors open and key individuals receptive to their needs, while the newspaper gets a great human interest story. A win-win all around. Start working on your media contacts, newspaper, TV, Radio, Magazines now to generate support for you upcoming digital initiatives. To be Continued....