What is ISO 20560-2:2018

Introduction

In today's technological era, the need for standardization is of utmost importance to ensure compatibility and interoperability between different systems. ISO (International Organization for Standardization) plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining these standards on various aspects of technology and industry. One such standard is ISO 20560-2:2018, which focuses on the development of a technical metadata schema for cultural heritage institutions. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of ISO 20560-2:2018 and its implications.

Key Features of ISO 20560-2:2018

ISO 20560-2:2018 provides a standardized framework for describing, encoding, and exchanging technical information about cultural heritage objects. It offers a comprehensive metadata schema that covers diverse aspects such as object identification, physical characteristics, manufacturing techniques, preservation history, and much more. This standardized approach enables cultural heritage institutions to manage and share information about their collections efficiently.

The schema defined in ISO 20560-2:2018 follows a modular structure, allowing institutions to tailor their metadata according to specific needs. It uses XML (eXtensible Markup Language) as the preferred syntax for encoding the information. This choice ensures platform independence and long-term data preservation, as XML is widely adopted and supported across various software applications and operating systems.

Benefits and Implications

The adoption of ISO 20560-2:2018 brings significant benefits to cultural heritage institutions worldwide. Firstly, it enhances the discoverability and accessibility of cultural objects by providing standardized descriptions that can be easily shared and understood by both humans and machines. This, in turn, promotes increased collaboration and knowledge exchange within the cultural heritage community.

Secondly, ISO 20560-2:2018 facilitates the long-term preservation of cultural heritage objects. By capturing detailed technical information, including manufacturing processes and materials used, institutions can implement effective conservation strategies to ensure the longevity of these objects. Additionally, standardized metadata enables better tracking of provenance and attribution, aiding in the prevention of illicit trade and enhancing cultural heritage protection efforts.

Conclusion

ISO 20560-2:2018 plays a vital role in establishing a common ground for describing and managing technical information related to cultural heritage objects. Its standardized metadata schema brings numerous benefits, ranging from improved discoverability and accessibility to enhanced preservation and protection. By adopting ISO 20560-2:2018, cultural heritage institutions can unlock new opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and ensuring the richness of our cultural heritage for future generations to appreciate.