The application and management of information systems in the care and conservation of historic buildings and their contents

Abstract

Information systems are making a growing contribution to the conservation of important historic buildings and their contents which require high standards of maintenance and management to stave off the natural processes of decay. Cultural properties are also subject to various late 20th century social, political and economic issues which affect their conservation such as energy, legislation, cost, access, arson, terrorism, violence, theft, vandalism and change of use. This paper evaluates the advantages and drawbacks of information systems and their management in relation to the conservation of several outstanding historic buildings. The systems include environmental controls, fire, safety and security systems and others which monitor the buildings, their contents and their occupants. In each case, the ability to harmonize them has also been examined. The conclusions demonstrate that the application of information systems can be invaluable in supporting the conservation of historic buildings and their contents but illustrates that skilled managers are required for this work. Furthermore, whilst information technologies can make an important contribution to the conservation of these buildings, they can be counter-productive by depleting their fabric. Attention is also drawn to the need to support information systems with adequate human resources and to be aware of their fallibility.