What is ISO 23938:2012

ISO 23938:2012 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for the preservation of digital audio-visual materials. It was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to address the challenges posed by the rapid digitization of audio-visual collections and the need for long-term preservation.

The Importance of ISO 23938:2012

In today's digital age, the preservation of audio-visual materials is crucial for cultural heritage institutions, broadcasters, and archives. These materials are often at risk of degradation due to various factors such as aging, obsolescence of playback equipment, and environmental conditions. ISO 23938:2012 provides a set of guidelines and best practices to ensure the long-term accessibility, usability, and authenticity of these materials.

Key Elements of ISO 23938:2012

ISO 23938:2012 covers several important aspects of audio-visual preservation, including format selection, storage conditions, metadata requirements, and migration strategies. One of the key elements is the recommendation to use open, non-proprietary file formats that are widely supported by software applications and hardware devices. This ensures that the content can be accessed and played back in the future, even as technology evolves.

Another essential aspect is the establishment of appropriate storage conditions. ISO 23938:2012 recommends controlling temperature, humidity, and light levels to minimize the risks of physical and chemical deterioration. It also provides guidance on the creation and management of metadata, which helps to describe and document the audio-visual materials throughout their lifecycle.

Benefits of Implementing ISO 23938:2012

By adhering to ISO 23938:2012, organizations can overcome the challenges associated with audio-visual preservation and ensure the long-term viability of their collections. Proper implementation of this standard helps to reduce the risk of format obsolescence, enabling content to be migrated from one format to another without loss of information or quality.

In addition, ISO 23938:2012 facilitates interoperability and exchange of audio-visual materials between different systems and institutions. It promotes the use of standardized metadata, which improves discoverability, searchability, and overall management of digital collections.