Arkistoarvon

Arkistoarvon is a Finnish term that translates to archival value. It refers to the intrinsic worth of a record or document that justifies its permanent preservation in an archive. This value is not inherent in the object itself but is determined by its potential to serve as evidence of an organization's or individual's activities, functions, or decisions, or as a source of information for historical, research, or administrative purposes.

The assessment of archival value is a crucial aspect of records management and archival appraisal. It involves evaluating records based on several criteria, including their evidential value, informational value, and legal or administrative requirements. Evidential value relates to the record's ability to document the structure, functions, and operations of the creating entity. Informational value pertains to the data or content within the record that can be used for research or to understand past events. Legal and administrative requirements consider whether the record must be kept for regulatory or operational reasons.

Ultimately, determining archival value helps archivists and records managers make informed decisions about which records should be preserved for the long term, ensuring that valuable historical and administrative information is not lost. This process is essential for maintaining collective memory and supporting future research and accountability.