Operationalizing the United States Department of the Air Force Digital Archives

Abstract

Abstract This paper analyzes the current state of digital curation within the United States Air Force History and Museums Program and evaluates the lifecycle of Air Force digital records. The scope of this evaluation includes information from existing literature, in-the-field personnel, and named experts to generate an independently understandable archival needs assessment. The paper supplies numerous synopses of American and international digital archive models and standards to create a baseline understanding of the benefits of digital curation. In contrast, the research generates several Air Force case files highlighting the need for standardization and training across the force. The study delivers a controlled and measurable appraisal of the current state of digital asset management and information packaging employed by the Air Force. The analysis concludes by recommending the courses of action the Air Force History and Museums Program must implement to operationalize and connect the global network of United States Air Force digital archives.