This resource details the technical specifications for the National Film and Sound Archive’s (NFSA) preferred digital objects covering the preservation, distribution and access of digitised materials.

As the trusted custodian of Australia’s audiovisual heritage, the NFSA actively advises on technical specifications and implements policies and procedures that contribute to good practice across the international GLAMR (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums and Research) sector. 

We recognise that evolving technology is integral to the digital expansion of audiovisual archives, from the 1930s to the present.

Our approach to selecting, reviewing and implementing digital object formats is undertaken in accordance with in-house operations which reflect current archival and industry standards.

Preserving and providing access for complex born-digital artefacts presents many challenges for traditional approaches to categorisation and documentation.

Born-digital artefacts are often acquired as ‘ecosystems’ of components, which are made up of many contextual elements. These elements can include a reliance on external linkages such as networks, servers and hardware. 

As collecting practices continue to increase and evolve for born-digital artefacts (e.g. video games and interactive content, social video), new terminology and recommendations for long-term preservation may aid us in how we steward and provide access to Australia’s audiovisual heritage.

We welcome collaboration and feedback from other institutions and communities who are actively collecting, managing and preserving complex born-digital digital materials.

Contact us

Contact our team by emailing DigitalPreservation@nfsa.gov.au.