This two‑hour webinar will explore how improved documentation practices make heritage science data - and the material samples behind it - more findable, accessible, and valuable as a research resource.
Bringing together practitioners who work with material samples, analytical data, and associated metadata, the session aims to share findings, highlight current challenges, and discuss practical approaches to organising, documenting, and sharing heritage sample information.
We will introduce key concepts in heritage sample documentation and consider the varying levels of documentation required for different use cases and user communities. Short case studies will illustrate real‑world workflows, notable examples, and emerging directions in the field.
The Heritage Science Data Service (HSDS) team will be among the invited contributors, adding their expertise to a programme designed to highlight a wide range of perspectives. The event will celebrate the diversity of approaches, tools, and documentation strategies used across different institutions, offering an inclusive platform for shared learning and collaboration.
Outline programme
1. Introduction & Context
- Why documentation standards matter
- What problems are we trying to solve?
- Overview of current challenges in locating, organising, and sharing heritage sample data
2. Case Studies
- Real examples from conservators, conservation scientists, and collection specialists
- Stories illustrating documentation gaps, successes, and lessons learned
3. Group Discussions
- Identifying common pain points
- How do people currently find things, organise material, and share it?
- What levels of documentation are appropriate for different users?
4. Tools, Approaches, and Directions
- Overview of existing documentation frameworks
- HSDS as an example standard (without making it the main focus)
- Encouraging participants to develop and maintain their own documentation structures
5. Wrap-up: Findings & Next Steps
- Summary of discussion
- Pathways for improving documentation practice
- Opportunities for collaboration
The webinar will foster a constructive, cross-disciplinary exchange and encourage participants to reflect on their own documentation practices and needs.
Attend this event, and many more, free with an Icon 26 ticket.
