Il riversamento di formato elettronico tra standard internazionali e Linee guida sulla formazione, gestione e conservazione di documenti informatici dell’AgID

Abstract

The problem of file format obsolescence poses significant challenges for the long-term preservation of electronic records. Continuous technological developments make existing formats obsolete, requiring timely conversion to new formats to ensure future usability. This issue affects both open-source and commercial formats, with vendors sometimes encouraging a switch to new products through planned obsolescence. To solve this problem, the strategy of file format conversion has been proposed, which involves converting electronic records from an old format to a more current one. However, although the importance of this strategy is widely recognised, its practical implementation is still limited due to a lack of knowledge and expertise, operational guidelines, and advise. This paper aims to fill this gap by outlining the rationale behind format conversion,
the timing of its implementation, and the methodologies for conversion – referencing both international and national guidelines – and proposing a methodology for mass conversion based on process certification.