Preserving digital heritage: assessing the compliance of digital repositories in South Africa with OAIS and TDR standards

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Purpose The preservation of digital records, particularly their authenticity, integrity and accessibility over time, is a critical challenge faced by institutions worldwide. In South Africa, these challenges are further compounded by inadequate infrastructure, legal complexities, ad limited resources, which threaten the long-term sustainability of digital repositories. This study aims to investigate the compliance of selected digital repositories in South Africa with the standards of a Trusted Digital Repository (TDR) and the Open Archival Information System (OAIS) model. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research approach was used, assessing five purposefully selected repositories based on their significance in preserving South Africa’s digital cultural heritage. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with key personnel, content analysis of relevant documents (such as policies and procedures) and direct observations of repository environments to evaluate operational frameworks and technological infrastructure. A review of relevant literature informed the development of assessment criteria, while data from interviews, content analysis and observations were triangulated to ensure reliability. Findings The findings reveal significant shortcomings in compliance with OAIS and TDR standards, particularly in areas such as policy implementation, staffing, financial sustainability and technological infrastructure. None of the repositories fully met the OAIS responsibilities, and all lacked systems to ensure the independent understandability of digital records by designated communities. Practical implications The study highlights the need for improved staff training, stronger preservation policies and increased financial and technological investment to enhance compliance with international standards. Recommendations emphasize capacity building, strategic planning and collaborative efforts to sustainably manage South Africa’s digital heritage. Social implications The study highlights the importance of preserving South Africa’s digital cultural heritage, which holds value for both present and future generations. Ensuring the authenticity, accessibility, and long-term sustainability of digital records is crucial for fostering a sense of national identity, supporting historical research and promoting inclusivity in cultural representation. By improving digital preservation practices, these repositories can serve as reliable resources for education, cultural engagement and community empowerment, ultimately strengthening social cohesion and collective memory in South Africa. Originality/value This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of digital repository compliance within South Africa, a context marked by unique infrastructural and resource constraints. The recommendations offer a foundation for addressing gaps in repository management and contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable digital preservation.