1. Archiving is focussed on use
(
)
Statement The choices made regarding collecting and preserving information are derived from the purpose for which that information might be used, now or in the future. Rational This is the most critical principle from which all other principles are derived. Archiving is essentially making choices. These choices determine which information is recorded by the data creators and must be kept accessible over time. The underlying question is what kind of information requires long-term accessibility. These choices are necessary to be able to target the finite resources needed to achieve sustainable accessibility. This explicitly includes answering the question of what time period the information must at least remain accessible. Implications This principle implies that the archival value of the information is appraised. The appraisal should be risk based, taking into account the needs of current, and if possible, future user groups (designated communities). Within the appraisal process, one should make explicit (as far as possible) what information is to be kept, the level of importance and for how long. When possible, the identified user groups should be involved in the appraisal process. Notes (if any)