Electronic Currents

Lessons Learned from a Low-tech E-mail Capture Plan

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Abstract

Between 2008 and 2012, the Bentley Historical Library at the University of Michigan (UM) undertook a major project to develop a reliable mechanism for identifying and preserving e-mail correspondence created by university leaders. The first phase of this effort involved identifying an off-the-shelf software tool that would work well with a range of e-mail servers and services, was affordable, and was easy to implement. Several leading industry vendors were considered, but, in the end, the University Archives retreated from this approach. The second phase focused on a low-tech and completely voluntary process for capturing e-mail called the “Copy Method.” This paper briefly describes the project background, what the Copy Method is, and lessons learned. For more details on the Bentley’s work with preserving e-mail, visit the SAA case studies website.

How to Cite:

McKay, A. C., (2013) “Lessons Learned from a Low-tech E-mail Capture Plan”, MAC Newsletter 41(2), 19-21.