Software for conservation documentation

Conservation Data Systems (CDS) is announcing new PC based software
for documenting conservation projects.

CDS Documentation (CDS D) is a full featured database for reporting
examinations, proposals, treatments, and associated analyses.
Digital images and slides (as well as other types of digital or
analog graphics) can be cataloged in the system and linked to
specific locations in the reports. Digital images can be made to
print in their specific context within comprehensive reports, or
appear in separate reports, along with their image labels,
commentaries, and technical data.

The program is a practical tool for documenting projects of all
sizes and complexity, from ten minute repairs to architectural scale
projects. Customization features make it adaptable for all types of
historic and artistic works, library and archive materials,
archeological objects, complex mechanical arts, natural history
collections, and architecture.

The system uses relational database technology to automate much of
the work of recording and reporting, and to logically organize many
types of data. User customizable automation includes pick lists;
report headers; reusable language; data defaults; and standardized
procedures. Multi part objects can be divided into individual
components, each with its own description record if needed, and each
with one or more records of condition. Proposed and actual
treatments are then linked to the relevant condition record. Using a
single documentation system, conservators can document examination,
proposal, and final treatment, producing reports separately for each
phase, or integrating all of these phases in a single comprehensive
report. CDS D is not for collection surveys.

Paper reports produced with the software are user customizable. They
are designed so future readers can easily scan for specific types of
information. When used with Adobe Acrobat or another PDF generator,
CDS D produces digital reports that can be emailed, electronically
searched and archived, or linked to object records in collections
management databases.

CDS D helps conservators comply with AIC Guidelines for Practice. It
can help "organize the thinking of the conservator in planning a
full course of treatment; ... clarify the goals of treatment and the
sequence of steps necessary to reach them; [and] ... help ensure
that relevant logistical factors are considered." (Commentary 26 on
Treatment Plan, the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.)

CDS D is part of an ongoing research and software development effort
that is driven by the practical needs of conservators. Help for
users is provided through a full and searchable help document, a
dedicated help web site, and through email support.

For more information and to download a demo version or the complete
help file, visit <URL:http://www.ConservationDataSystems.com>.

James F. Judson
Conservation Data Systems


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 17:63
                  Distributed: Tuesday, March 30, 2004
                       Message Id: cdl-17-63-007
                                  ***