Architectural archives in the digital era

Abstract

As with records everywhere, more and more architectural records are being prepared in a digital format. Even though this format shift is taking place gradually due to the complex nature of programs used in architectural design, digital designs are quickly becoming the designs of record, especially those of three-dimensional models. The increased digital nature of architectural records, many of which are viewed as disposable by their creators, raises questions for archivists about the records' intellectual and artifactual values. In addition, archivists must deal with the vast amount of digital records, the instability of their storage media, and the short life span of most software and hardware products used to create architectural designs. Developing strategies to deal with these issues is essential to the survival of architectural records created in the late-twentieth century and by future generations.