What is the primary purpose of data migration in digital archives?

The primary purpose of data migration in digital archives is to move data between formats or systems as an act of preservation. This process is crucial for ensuring that digital materials remain accessible and usable over time, especially as technology evolves. By migrating data, archivists can adapt to new storage systems or formats that may be better suited for preservation purposes, thereby preventing data loss due to obsolescence or system failure.

Data migration is not focused on enhancing visual design or optimizing website functionality, as those elements pertain more to user interface design and user experience rather than the core function of preserving historical records. Additionally, creating duplicate copies of files is not the same as migration; while duplicating may serve redundancy or backup purposes, migration involves a more complex transfer process to maintain the integrity and accessibility of the archived material. Thus, the correct choice highlights the essential role of preservation in the data migration process within digital archives.