What are the best formats for preservation?

Over time, electronic file formats can become obsolete, risking harm or even the disappearance of important data. Many organizations have tackled the issue of what formats are best to protect against this risk.

For simpler explanations of recommended file formats, review the ADAH acceptable file format guide:

• Accepted File Format Guide

The U.S. Library of Congress (LOC) also provides helpful guidance in identifying formats that best protect against the risk of obsolescence. The annually-reviewed Recommended Formats Statement includes guidance by type, including textual works, print and digital photographs, audio, and video.

1. Textual Works
   1. Textual Works – Print
   2. Textual Works – Digital
   3. Textual Works – Electronic Serials
2. Still Image Works
   1. Photographs – Print
   2. Photographs – Digital
   3. Other Graphic Images – Print
   4. Other Graphic Images – Digital
   5. Microforms
3. Audio Works
   1. Audio – On Tangible Medium (digital or analog)
   2. Audio – Media-independent (digital)
4. Moving Image Works
   1. Motion Pictures – Digital and Physical Media
   2. Video – File-Based and Physical Media
5. Musical Scores
   1. Musical Scores - Print
   2. Musical Scores – Digital
6. Datasets/Databases
   1. Datasets
   2. Databases
7. GIS, Geospatial and Non-GIS Cartographic
   1. Geographic Information System (GIS) - Vector Images
   2. GIS Raster and Georeferenced Images
   3. GIS Vector and Raster Combined
   4. Non-GIS Cartographic
8. Design and 3D
   1. 2D and 3D Computer Aided Design
   2. Design (schematics, architectural drawings) - Print
   3. Scanned 3D Objects (output from photogrammetry scanning)
9. Software and Video Games
10. Web Archives