ISO 14721

Definition

ISO 14721, also known as the OAIS (Open Archival Information System) reference model, is an international standard that provides a framework for the long-term preservation of digital information. It establishes principles and practices for the management and preservation of digital objects, ensuring they remain accessible and usable over time despite technological changes. This standard is crucial for organizations involved in digital documentation and archiving, as it guides the development of effective archival systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ISO 14721 emphasizes the importance of having a well-defined organizational structure to manage digital archives effectively.
2. The model outlines six functional entities: Ingest, Storage, Archival Description, Access, Data Management, and Administration, which guide the archiving process.
3. It stresses the need for comprehensive metadata to ensure that digital objects can be understood and accessed in the future.
4. ISO 14721 promotes the idea of sustainability in digital preservation by encouraging organizations to adapt their practices as technologies evolve.
5. The implementation of ISO 14721 can significantly enhance the interoperability between different archival systems, facilitating easier data sharing and collaboration.

Review Questions

• How does ISO 14721 influence the structure and organization of digital archives?
  • ISO 14721 influences the structure and organization of digital archives by providing a framework that outlines essential functional entities necessary for effective archiving. These entities, such as Ingest, Storage, and Access, guide organizations in developing processes that ensure digital materials are preserved and accessible over time. By following this model, archivists can create systems that are more efficient and aligned with best practices in digital preservation.
• Discuss the role of metadata in the context of ISO 14721 and its significance for digital preservation.
  • In the context of ISO 14721, metadata plays a critical role as it provides essential information about digital objects necessary for their management and preservation. The standard emphasizes that comprehensive metadata ensures that users can understand and access these objects in the future. By documenting details such as creation date, format, and rights information, metadata helps maintain the integrity of digital archives, making them reliable resources over time.
• Evaluate the potential challenges organizations might face when implementing ISO 14721 standards for digital archiving.
  • Organizations implementing ISO 14721 standards may face challenges such as limited resources, technological changes that impact data formats, and the need for staff training on new procedures. Additionally, ensuring ongoing funding for long-term preservation efforts can be difficult. Balancing these challenges while striving to maintain compliance with ISO 14721 requires strategic planning and commitment from leadership to prioritize effective digital archiving practices within their operations.

Related terms

Digital Preservation: The process of maintaining and ensuring access to digital information over time, which involves strategies to manage and protect data against loss or obsolescence.

Metadata: Data that provides information about other data, helping to describe, manage, and preserve digital objects within an archival context.

Archival Science: The field of study focused on the principles and practices of managing records and preserving cultural heritage materials for future generations.