Tools:

Digital archivists use a variety of tools in the creation of a digital archive, from hardware such as scanners and digital cameras to software such as Photoshop. If the digital archivist is working with audio or video the parameters for hardware and software are widened even more.

The decisions that a digital archivist makes regarding hardware can greatly impact any digitization initiative. Selecting the right scanner and the right digital camera can greatly affect the quality of the produced data. If a poor scanner is selected the images will in turn be of bad quality and not represent the original. The same goes for if a poor camera is selected, colors will be incorrect and overall image quality will suffer. In addition the materials may suffer at the expense of using a flatbed scanner over an overhead scanner. Digital archivists must make decisions as to when it is OK to cut corners and when it is not acceptable as we find ourselves in less than ideal situations.

Digital archivists also must employ a digital asset management system to manage and organize the generated data. This can be a internet application such as contentDM or an intranet application such as Xinet. Whether its web based or installed locally, the DAM system is at the core of any digital archive. There are a variety of different types of digital asset management systems to choose from some are geared toward individuals (Adobe Lightroom or iPhoto), while others operate on the enterprise-level (Xinet, Canto Cumulus). In addition the digital archivist must work with the IT department and graphic designers to develop a
way for the users to access the shared information via interfaces and
administrative menus.

A digital archivist must also know how to use image editing software such as Photoshop and other software specific to the needs of the digital collection. The other big component of a digital archive is storage and backup. Digital archivists must determine how much space is needed and make decisions regarding digitization in response to available space. The minimum requirements regarding file sizes and quality must be addresses as these greatly affect the use of storage.

A digital archivist wears many hats, but the most important of them all is keeping abreast with current technologies and how to apply them to your projects. Digital archivists cannot be afraid to jump into the fray and must have an insatiable appetite for all things technology. They are often times early adopters and conduits for change in many institutions.