Digital Preservation
Introduction
The purpose of this policy is to outline the role, responsibilities and accountabilities of the University in preserving digital assets deemed to have long-term operational or archival value. Unlike paper, which can sit on a shelf without near-term risk of degradation, digital assets require active management in order to ensure their longevity. Bit rot, equipment failure, and hardware and software obsolescence can render digital files inaccessible or unreadable, and the authenticity of information can be called into question as a result of accidental or unauthorized alteration of digital files.
Since much of the textual and media content produced by University employees or donated to the University is now created in a digital format (e.g. documents, data, images, video), this policy is necessary to help mitigate the risks associated with maintaining digital files, to ensure that content of importance to the University’s mission remains accessible in the future.
The policy applies to both unique digital assets owned by the institution as well as those for which the University plays a stewardship role.
Definitions
Policy
The University of Regina affirms the importance of preservation of its digital assets. All digital assets deemed to have long-term operational or archival value by the University Records and Information Management Committee or the Dr. John Archer Library and Archives shall be managed, where possible, in accordance with this policy and related procedures.
Broadly speaking, digital assets are or will be:
- Stored in a managed storage system with appropriate levels of backup and replication, using industry standards to mitigate against risk of technological failure or natural disaster.
- Stored in or migrated to accessible file formats.
- Protected against alteration, deletion, corruption, degradation, or unauthorized access through security measures and active monitoring strategies.
- Accompanied by appropriate metadata to ensure that they remain authentic and usable over time.
The University will implement different preservation strategies over time as required. These strategies will be selected according to the requirements of particular digital assets, ongoing risk assessment, evolving best practice, and reviews of the resources required to execute the strategy in accordance with this policy.
Roles and Responsibilities
University Administration – provide resources to address this institutional issue
Dr. John Archer Library and Archives – provide advice and expertise on long-term digital preservation strategies and approaches, and communicate risk of inaction to campus. The Archives will maintain and preserve digital archival records in its custody and/or control in accordance with this Policy and associated procedures.
Information Services – Manage infrastructure related to information security and storage (e.g. identity management, network access, and active monitoring). Provide advice on system migration, storage, and software platforms in accordance with this Policy and associated procedures.
Custodians of digital assets – Manage, maintain, and preserve their assets in accordance with accepted policies, procedures, records schedules, and contractual obligations.
Consequences for Noncompliance
Mismanagement of University digital assets has financial, legal and/or reputational consequences for the institution.
Any University employee who does not manage digital assets in accordance with this policy may be subject to disciplinary action.