Arkistoyksiköiden

Arkistoyksiköiden, meaning "archive units" in Finnish, refers to a fundamental organizational concept within archival science and practice. It is the basic unit used for arranging, describing, and managing archival materials. An arkistoyksikkö can encompass a wide range of physical or digital entities, from a single letter or photograph to a box of documents, a series of ledgers, or even a digital folder containing multiple files. The key characteristic of an arkistoyksikkö is that it represents a discrete, self-contained whole that is managed and preserved as a single entity for archival purposes.

The definition and scope of an arkistoyksikkö can vary depending on the nature of the records and the archival institution's standards. It is often determined by provenance, meaning the records are grouped according to their creator or originating office. The principle of respecting provenance is crucial in archival arrangement, and arkistoyksiköiden are the building blocks of this arrangement. They are essential for ensuring the context and integrity of the records are maintained. Archivists use arkistoyksiköiden to create finding aids, such as inventories and descriptions, which allow users to locate and access specific information within the archive. Proper identification and management of arkistoyksiköiden are vital for the long-term preservation and accessibility of historical and cultural heritage.