Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between EDRMS, Seamless Flow and Digital Continuity?

Electronic document and records management systems (EDRMS) store the sorts of data you need to access on a day-to-day basis. Different departments may have different EDRM systems, but they all do the same thing.

Seamless Flow is a programme set up by The National Archives to look at digital preservation. It´s developing a solution for archiving the sort of digital information that is needed for permanent record, and increasing public access to it via The National Archives´ website.

Digital Continuity is looking at the digital information that government departments need in the medium term - so anything from three to 30 years. Departments will need to be able to search for documentation and recall it whenever they need it. The volume of information they store in the interim is likely to be larger than the information that´s permanently archived.

What's the difference between Digital Continuity and back-up systems?

A back-up is simply a copy of information. It does not guarantee the information will be readable if formats or computer systems change - new versions or application do not guarantee to provide all the functions of the original. This can be critical, for example in a table or chart where a moved comma can change values and meaning.

How can you guarantee the security of the information?

We will put in place all appropriate government standards to ensure information is secure. We are appointing an IT security specialist as part of the project team.

Why is The National Archives running this project?

With our expertise in managing digital projects, The National Archives is well placed to negotiate the best value deal possible. Our expertise was recognised at the 2007 Conservation Awards, where The National Archives won the top award for digital preservation.

We have already developed the ´core´ of a solution that suppliers could build on - the software and systems of our digital preservation programme, Seamless Flow.

Any more questions?

If you have any more questions about how the Digital Continuity project will work or why it is needed, email digitalcontinuity@nationalarchives.gov.uk or telephone Judith Riley on +44 (0) 20 8392 5330 extension 2411.