Initially this volume focuses on the implications of the survey results for the development of national polices for digital data. Results from the survey are placed in the wider context of developments in archaeology and the humanities, specifically regarding the creation, preservation and provision of access to digital cultural heritage resources. The actual results of the survey are then presented. They show that the following four issues may be central to any national policy for digital data in archaeology. A wide variety of programs are used to create these data.
Some information is created solely in digital form.
These diverse practices can create barriers to the exchange of information. Although standards are now available and being developed for the preservation of digital datasets, there is as yet no standard practice in archaeology. Any strategies for digital archiving therefore need to be addressed to all sectors of archaeology. Poor cataloguing and limited information on digital holdings for all areas of archaeology are major barriers to raising awareness of digital resources. Provision for outside access and support for users are additional, essential services.