less costly transfers less costly long term increased interest in using open

preservation source software (for

preservation purposes) may
encourage new collaborative
production models

Table 13-1 Some potential benefits of collaboration between preservation programmes and
producers of digital heritage materials

TECHNICAL AND PRACTICAL ISSUES

13.10 Recognising differences
It is important to recognise that creators of digital materials work in different environments
and are likely to be quite diverse in many ways: how they approach their work, their size of
operations, the organisational and technical support at their disposal, and their interest in long-
term access issues. For example, scientists collecting data are likely to have an overriding
interest in how accurately and securely their data is protected; how well any proposed formats
and standards fit with their working needs; the convenience of transfer arrangements; and
maintenance of moral rights and access controls over their data. On the other hand,
commercial publishers of CD-ROM packages are likely to be more interested in controls on
unauthorised copying; the costs and risks associated with providing unprotected versions to
a preservation programme; the potential re-use of their content; and their licence obligations
to software owners whose products they have used.

13.11 Approaches to working with producers

There are many ways in which those responsible for preserving digital heritage may approach
working with those who create and disseminate it.
An obvious first step is to identify who is involved. Some action can be usefully
undertaken with industry representative groups, but some action may require
individual contact and negotiation
Creators also need to know who to deal with. Preservation programmes should
proactively promote awareness of their own role
It may be advantageous to identify particular groups of producers and work with them,
addressing specific issues, rather than trying to resolve everyones concerns at a
generic level
At a broader industry level, it may be helpful to develop a code of practice that sets
out agreed understandings about roles and responsibilities, and defines the scope and
terms of ongoing cooperation
Many sectors have active industry groups that provide forums for discussing issues.
As well as offering opportunities for dialogue with industry leaders, such forums may
help in establishing new norms of thinking that incorporate a longer term perspective
It is important for preservation programmes to offer positive encouragement and
feedback for the steps producers are willing to take, and to provide a level of

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