Utilizing workflows as roadmaps in new digital preservation programs
Ciaran Purdome
Creating a digital preservation program from scratch involves many components, from establishing program scope to implementing preservation strategies. Keeping track of documentation and to-dos is challenging in the early stages of program development. 

Workflows, traditionally seen as documentation tools, offer a unique solution for tracking the development of digital preservation programs. Instead of viewing workflows as static documents, they can be transformed into dynamic roadmaps that guide practitioners through the program’s inception and evolution.  By crafting bespoke, high-level workflows tailored to individual institutional contexts, practitioners can effectively use them as planning tools. These workflows serve not only as project management tools to track progress but also help effectively communicate with program stakeholders. 

Workflows were used in planning Acadia University’s digital preservation program. The development of an ingest workflow identified key components of digital preservation, including ensuring authenticity, fixity, processing, and transfer into long-term storage. Identifying these components ensured tools were procured that adequately addressed ingest requirements. Sharing practical lessons learned through utilizing workflows in the planning stages of creating a new digital preservation program allows for other institutions to follow a similar process. Workflows, policy, and implementation are interrelated, and focusing on workflows highlighted priorities for Acadia’s policy development. Workflow planning allows small institutions to implement realistic digital preservation programs.
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