The DiSCmap project: Digitisation of special collections: mapping, assessment, prioritisation

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present the outcomes of digitisation of special collections:rnmapping, assessment, prioritisation (DiSCmap), a JISC and RTN-funded project which studied users'rnpriorities for the digitisation of special collections within the context of UK Higher EducationrnInstitutions (HEIs).rnDesign/methodology/approach - The project produced a list of 945 collections nominated forrndigitisation by intermediaries and end users and a user-driven prioritisation framework. Data wererngathered via web questionnaires. Focus groups and telephone interviews with end users providedrnadditional insights on the views of those working within particular domains or disciplines. Over 1,000rnintermediaries and end users contributed by nominating collections for the "long list" and providingrnopinions about digitisation priorities.rnFindings - The long list of collections nominated for digitisation provides evidence of identified userrninterest and is not merely a "snapshot" but a significant outcome. A user-driven framework forrnprioritising digitisation was also produced. The project suggests a flexible approach for prioritisingrncollections for digitisation based on the use of the framework in combination with the long list ofrncollections.rnResearch limitations/implications - The project did not undertake a representative study; thernparticipation of intermediaries and end users was a matter of goodwill. Yet 44 per cent of HEIs in thernUK nominated special collections to the long list.rnOriginality/value - The paper provides new insights and evidence on user priorities for therndigitisation of special collections. It also suggests a user-driven digitisation prioritisation frameworkrnof benefit in future decision making, both locally and nationally.