Empowering archival effectiveness: Archival strategies as innovation

Abstract

The ideas and arguments attributed to David Bearman over the last decade have triggered unparalleled controversy and debate among archivists around the world. In Archival Methods, Bearman initially de-constructed traditional archival endeavor in search of its true mission and functionality. Then, in association with a small circle of multinational colleagues, he evolved his findings into Archival Strategies, a new, proactive regimen of purpose and activities which he believes will transform and revitalize the archival profession. This paper discusses Bearman's role and contributions as an innovator, and comments on a selection of the ideas and activities proposed, with reference to recent studies of innovation diffusion.