Connecting the dots - mapping the use of conservation records for quantification and research

Abstract

This study addresses the potential use of information from conservation records for research and quantification purposes. The aim of this study is to map out the information types and documentation methods in Swedish museum databases. And to explain how the structure and the quality of data entry enable or obstruct scalability of information. A quantitative survey was used to map out the documentation in Swedish museums, this was complemented with samples of conservation modules in databases collected from five museums. A qualitative interview was carried out to get more insight into the need and use of conservation documentation from the perspective of a museum currently adjusting their conservation module. A literature review was used to explore the use of conservation records for research methods epidemiology and data mining. The study resulted in a mapping of the current documentation methods and the structure of digital conservation records in museums in Sweden. The data structure was found to be fragmented due to parallel recording and storing of information. Issues such as heterogeneity, inter- and intra-operability of information, object-centred systems and a lack of standardized terminology obstruct the potential use of records for quantification and research. The study provides an overview of the relevant aspects revolving the improvement of information retrieval and operability of conservation records and point out semantic technologies as a way to enable inter-operability. An increased level of retrievability and inter- and intra-operability would potentially benefit research and quantification. But there is a conflict of objectives separating the use of records at the institution level and sector level.