This implementation provides many features required in a digital archive. It has proved an effective basis for retrieval through an interface implemented on the World Wide Web using a standard WWW browser. The naming scheme provides a structure for project management during production and links different versions of the same item. The approach to naming has been coordinated with developments in standardized use of field 856 of the MARC record.
However, it lacks some features needed in the longer term. It can provide no mechanism for access control to satisfy copyright restrictions, comply with terms of gifts, or provide privacy for individuals. Nor is the structure robust for the long-term. It relies on files not being moved, existing formats continuing to be appropriate, and naming schemes being strictly followed, even decades hence.
For the long term, an approach is needed that takes advantage of the experience already gained, can co-exist with the existing implementation, and provides more support for managing items within the archive.
Digital Archive Structure:3 --
(12/27/95)