From: http://www.archivalplatform.org/news/entry/western_cape_digitisation_policy_for_comment_by_30_april_2014/ Western Cape Digitisation Policy: for comment by 30 April 2014 Category: In the Headlines Posted on April 16, 2014 The purpose of this document is to provide a uniform policy to governmental bodies in the Western Cape Province to assist them to comply with legislative requirements regarding digital records as an integral part of the strategic management of their records resources. The main aims and objectives of this document are: To provide a guiding framework for governmental bodies within the Western Cape to compile digital strategy documents that are aligned with international standards and best practices, as well as with an eye to the unique circumstances within South Africa and the Western Cape. To provide guidance on digital rights management issues that must be addressed in digitisation strategies compiled by governmental bodies. This policy document takes cognisance of the lack of guidance or legislation pertaining digital rights issues, This policy document will attempt to chart a course that will ensure that the Western Cape Archives and Records Service is able to safeguard the records in its care for future benefit of all South Africans. To provide guidance on the compilation of accurate and comprehensive metadata records, as a vital means for managing electronic records and digital surrogates in the future. To discuss and describe the requirements for the creation of authentic digital records that are useable and reliable for as long as they are required for functional, legal and historical purposes. This will include addressing issues such as digital rights management and metadata. To give consideration to the role of digital technology in the management of records, digital technology with regard to the digitisation of original historical records, for example paper-based documents and photographs, as well as the storage of digital records. To promote a preservation-appropriate approach to the digitisation of paper-based collections. In the urge to scan historical paper based records, many records are damaged and exposed to further harm. It espouses a “scan right” approach to the digitisation of historical paper based records; and a preservation-sensitive approach to the management of digitally born records. Please download the document below and forward comments to Ms Jolanda Hogg,[email protected] Western Cape Archives and Records Service, 2014. Kind regards Morvina Pharo Western Cape Archives and Records Service Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport Western Cape Government Downloads WCG_Digitisation_Policy_2013_Dec_Revised_2072012_Draft_ver_4_0.docx Western Cape Digitisation Policy for comment.