Säilitusmetadata

Säilitusmetadata refers to the information that describes the characteristics and context of digital or physical objects for the purpose of long-term preservation. This type of metadata is crucial for ensuring that an object can be understood, accessed, and used over time, even as technologies and formats evolve. It goes beyond simple descriptive metadata, which might focus on title or author, to include details essential for archival integrity.

Key aspects of säilitusmetadata often include information about the origin of the object, its format and technical specifications, any modifications or transformations it has undergone, its authenticity and integrity, and the rights associated with its use and preservation. For digital objects, this can involve checksums to verify file integrity, details about the software and hardware used to create or access it, and information about file encoding. For physical objects, it might include details about materials, environmental conditions during storage, and conservation treatments.

The purpose of säilitusmetadata is to provide a complete and enduring record that supports the long-term usability and trustworthiness of the preserved item. Without it, valuable information could become inaccessible or its meaning lost due to technological obsolescence or a lack of contextual understanding. It acts as a guide for future custodians and users, enabling them to navigate, interpret, and interact with the archived content effectively throughout its lifecycle.