Collaborative Development of Polymer-Based Collection Survey Methodology and Relational Data Model

Abstract

ABSTRACT Plastic-focused collection surveys are a fundamental starting point for locating, identifying and assessing the conservation needs of polymer-based objects, and are increasingly conducted internationally. As surveys are both time- and people-intensive, it is critical to ensure the optimal usefulness of the data for the institution and wider conservation community through consistent documentation, using flexible robust data structures, and making results accessible. However, only summaries of survey results have been published in the conservation literature, resulting in a lack of continuity and information dissemination. This is problematic for institutions without the necessary resources to conduct extensive surveys and to identify polymer types. This paper outlines the collaborative development of a plastic-focused collection survey methodology, highlighting the importance of developing and testing standardised procedures, engaging with expert collaborators, and ensuring results are accessible.