Management and conservation of audiovisual documents in information institutions in Oman
Abderrazak Mkadmi
This paper investigates the management and preservation of audiovisual documents within Omani institutions, given their significance as records of institutional memory and heritage. Audiovisual materials face unique threats of deterioration and technological obsolescence that necessitate tailored preservation approaches. Through a qualitative field study utilizing semi-structured interviews, this research assessed the current state, strategies, perceived value, and digitization practices for audiovisual content across various Omani institutions, including archives, libraries, and information centers.
Key findings reveal that while usage rates are high at 35%, concrete preservation strategies tailored to multimedia remain inadequate, coupled with technology and policy-related obstacles. This highlights the need for dedicated digitization, training, and policy initiatives to safeguard audiovisual content, given their vulnerability and value as records of institutional identities.
The implications indicate the necessity of a collaborative national approach combining governmental, institutional, and community efforts to formulate multifaceted preservation strategies addressing related dimensions. Standardizing practices through training programs and global standards alignment are also integral for accessible and enduring multimedia conservation. As repositories of cultural heritage, dedicated audiovisual management frameworks will ensure their persistence for posterity.
managing access from document to data