Our Digital Recording System solves real difficulties encountered by archaeologists during fieldwork
Table of contents:
1. Introduction to the field of archaeology without holding back
2. Top difficulties archaeologists face on a dig site
3. What is the Digital Recording system, and how does it work?
4. Specific features built for archaeologists
5. How the system optimizes field productivity and data accuracy
6. In conclusion
7. FAQs
Field archaeology in the real world
The romantic search for lost civilizations is not romantic, but a serious and complex activity. It is a meticulous set of actions, driven by data and often full of surprises. Weather can change. Logistics constrain activity. As a result, most archaeologists work under pressure to collect, analyze, and preserve data.
The most pressing issue? Time and its mandatory helpers: paperwork, human error, and data loss. It is not easy to manage all of them, especially during a hot summer day or a rainy one.
Technology is now a vital ally in the battle against lost time and human error. One of the most exciting pieces of technology designed for archaeology comes from us: the Digital Recording System. This is a flexible, offline-capable application built for specific use in dig sites or specific archaeological fields.
Top difficulties archaeologists face on a dig site
Even the most experienced archaeological teams face various hurdles during work. Despite amazing preparation or best intentions, problems appear out of nowhere. Some of the most common challenges archaeologists face on-site include:
- Paper notes get wet, misplaced, or damaged in one way or another in the field. Some of the most valuable notes vanish due to a rainy day or a swift storm.
- Duplicated data entry. Confusion appears and stops researchers in their tracks.
- Human error and data inconsistencies appear when changing one form to another.
- Poor or lack of internet connection makes cloud-based tech unreliable.
- The inexistence of specialized digital tools ideal for archaeological data structure and adding context to research programs.
These are only a couple of issues archaeologists face on-site. These are more than minor inconveniences; they can slow down or even jeopardize the integrity of the archaeological study. As a result, it is best to treat them with utmost seriousness and apply due diligence when choosing a software partner to remedy them.
Our tip: we have more than 18 years of experience working with archaeologists, offering them solid solutions to what they encounter.
Schedule a meeting. Find out more about our Digital Recording System!
What is the Digital Recording System?
One of our most appreciated digital apps for archaeology is the Digital Recording System. This is a progressive web app (PWA), designed by Newroco specialists in tight collaboration with experienced archaeologists from Oxford Archaeology and other educational institutions. The app replaces pen-and-paper recording methods with a solid, digital-first solution that works ONLINE and OFFLINE.
Our system permits archaeologists to document contexts, finds, stratigraphy, and notes in the field. No delays. How? Simply by using a tablet or a smartphone. No worries about Internet connectivity or data loss. It is that easy.
Key features that target archaeologists' needs
Our system responds to the specific needs of field archaeologists. DRS has the imprint of real archaeologists. So, let us see them:
Offline-first functionality
In some archaeological sites, there is no internet. With DRS, that is not a problem. This app works without internet and synchronizes automatically when a connection is available. It is possible.
The system has forms easy to customize for context, features, finds, photos, layers, and sections. Archaeology becomes solid with proper data. No more misinterpretations of written notes.
There is no need for retypes. The data is up and running in the central database once the internet is available. Archaeologists can enter smart validation to reduce the occurrence of common errors and alert users to inconsistencies.
Another feature is multi-use collaboration. Team members work better and even simultaneously without interfering with one another’s responsibilities. Even during complex excavations, DRS works without issues to optimize overall performance.
Even clearer: DRS improves field efficiency and data accuracy
Archaeologists understand that limiting problems equals more time to perform their tasks better. With DRS, workflows begin to skyrocket. A major upgrade? Yes! It can transform fieldwork and give it new meaning. Useful examples to consider:
Problem:
1. Lost or wet paper notes
2. Double entry of field notes
3. Inconsistent recording styles
4. Limited internet access
5. Slow post-fieldwork reporting
DRS solutions:
1. Data is saved locally and backed up
2. One-time entry, synchronized to database
3. Standard and customizable forms
4. Offline-capable PWA
5. Data export for reporting tools
No more repetitive admin tasks. Centralized field documentation and security for all information. Our system permits archaeologists to focus on their work and not worry about transcribing issues. Focus on what matters: bringing life to history.
In conclusion
Every layer matters in archaeology. Precision follows hard while efficiency on the dig site can make the difference between a huge discovery and a near miss. The Digital Recording System is a personalized solution for modern archaeologists, bent on optimizing work irrespective of their location or the presence of a stable internet connection.
If you want to bring your archaeology work to the next level, time to use a tool that can do it: the Digital Recording System.
For a demo of the product or more information, please contact one of Newroco specialists through the contact form.
FAQs
1. How hard it is to use the Digital Recording System by non-tech archaeologists?
Very easy. The interface is intuitive and was co-designed with real archaeologists who understand the importance of simplicity. We also provide support and tutelage during implementation.
2. What happens if the device gets damaged or lost during work?
Nothing. The system stores the data locally until it is synced and automatic backups kick in, for extra security of the information.
3. How customizable are the forms to match the specific needs of a project?
Very. We can customize forms to fit your exact needs or recording standards. That is the beauty of a custom-built app.
4. Does the system work for large-scale dig sites with a lot of users?
Yes. You can allocate roles, permissions to match the project’s distinct particularities.