What is a possible consequence of inadequate digital preservation?

The potential consequence of inadequate digital preservation is indeed the loss of access to valuable digital information. Digital preservation is essential in ensuring that digital materials remain accessible and usable over time. Without appropriate preservation strategies, data may become corrupted, obsolete, or lost due to technological advancements, hardware failures, or software incompatibilities. As formats evolve or media become unreadable, it can be impossible to recover or access critical records, research, or cultural artifacts that were digitally created.

Choosing to neglect digital preservation means risking the permanence of digital assets, which can lead to gaps in knowledge, loss of historical records, and diminished cultural heritage. Thus, the primary concern is maintaining the long-term viability of digital information, which underscores the necessity of implementing robust preservation practices.