What is collection management in the context of digital archives?

Collection management in the context of digital archives primarily encompasses the systematic processes involved in acquiring, preserving, and providing access to digital collections. This aspect is critical in ensuring that digital materials not only remain accessible over time but also retain their integrity and usability for future audiences.

In digital archives, collection management involves assessing what digital materials to acquire, how to store them effectively, and implementing preservation strategies to protect against data degradation or obsolescence. Additionally, it includes the creation of metadata and tools that facilitate access, enabling users to locate and utilize the digital resources effectively.

The other options focus on areas outside the primary scope of collection management in digital contexts. For instance, while planning and acquiring physical items is relevant to traditional archives and collections, it does not pertain to the management of digital collections. Similarly, donor relations are important for funding and sourcing materials, but they are not the core focus of collection management itself. Lastly, financial management, while essential in the overall operation of an archive, does not specifically align with the concept of collection management within digital archives, which is much more concerned with the lifecycle of digital assets.