Digitization and Its Benefits

Digitization is the process of converting information into a digital format. In this format, information is organized into discrete units of data (called bit s) that can be separately addressed (usually in multiple-bit groups called bytes).

Through Digitization we can collect data into digital formats that promote easy discovery, access, and use.  Basically, it means taking the static, hard-edged ink of typewriter ribbon or ball-point pen and converting it into fluid, digital formats – electrons that move easily through air and wires, to be converted back to us as reflected light.  

Benefits of Digitization

So what are the benefits of digitizing? This has been explored in depth elsewhere, but in summary the listed advantages offered by digitization tend to come under the headings of increasing access, preservation, and meeting strategic goals (i.e., raising the profile of the institution running the project, and so on). The first, allowing increased access to the object, is the most-often-cited benefit of digitization. An electronic facsimile of a page, for example, can be theoretically copied and distributed ad infinitum without any degradation in quality (if correct standards are maintained). More importantly, a single copy can be mounted on a server (most commonly a Web server), and this can be viewed and downloaded by a large number of users (possibly in the region of hundreds of thousands), simultaneously, and from any location in the world (assuming appropriate access restrictions and server technology). 

The clear advantage of such a system is that it liberates the document (albeit a facsimile) from the constraints of traditional access methods. Take, for example, a digital image of a folio from a rare manuscript. Traditionally users may only be allowed access to the original item if they have an appropriate reader's card, and a good and validated reason. Most importantly they would have to physically go to the manuscript itself, which may involve travel, time, and/or money. However if a digital facsimile of the folio was mounted on the Web, for example, and made freely accessible, suddenly everyone can look at the image from the comfort of his own home, office, or school. This example also leads us to the second-cited advantage of digitization, namely preservation. Although the preservation of digital objects is a discussion in itself, the above scenario does imply that the original item might be handled less, or at least that the curators would have an extra reason for restricting access to the print manuscript.