This principle is also known as respect des fonds or respect for the source or originator. For example, if the University Archives holds the records of two economics professors, it would not consolidate their records even though both are involved in the same teaching activities and both create similar records. The principle of original order requires that the order in which an organization or person created, maintained, and used records be respected and preserved. For example, if the Department of Graduate records maintained files arranged alphabetically by name of student, that order would be maintained or, if necessary, reconstructed by the Archives. Moreover, where no particular order existed or cannot be reconstructed, archivists may either leave the material in the order it was received or impose an order to facilitate research.
Archives are unique materials containing evidential and informational value.
The principles of provenance and respect for original order preserve these essential qualities. As a result, records' creators and researchers can use, analyze and interpret archival materials within the context of their creation. Total Archives Canadian archives also adhere to the principle of total archives. A uniquely Canadian practice, total archives means that Canadian archives acquire and preserve historical materials in all medium or form from both public and private sources. Your comments and queries are welcomed.