In the fellowship, Saaman will conduct research into the importance and possibilities of archiving by design for government information. Archiving by design means that already in the design phase of information systems, decisions are made about how the information will become and remain sustainably accessible (DUTO). DUTO stands for discoverable, accessible, readable, interpretable, reliable, and future-proof – similar to the FAIR principles for scientific data.
In his research, Saaman will examine the potential of technological developments – such as datafication and the use of AI – to make information sustainably accessible, as well as the organisational, legal, and ethical conditions that influence this.
Collaboration and education
The fellowship was established in collaboration with the National Archives, which, as a center of expertise, plays an important role in developing and sharing knowledge about information management in the public sector. In his research, Saaman will also collaborate with other partners outside the academic world, particularly archival institutions and government organisations.
At the UvA, Saaman is affiliated with the Institute for Logic, Language, and Computation (ILLC). In addition to his research, he will teach courses in the Department of Media Studies – including in the Bachelor’s programme in Media and Information, the Dual Master’s in Archival and Information Studies, and the Research Master’s in Media Studies.
About Erik Saaman
Erik Saaman earned his PhD in Computer Science from the University of Groningen. He then worked as a consultant and project manager at the University of Groningen, SURFnet, and ICTU. He has been affiliated with the National Archives since 2011. There, he has contributed to the development of numerous standards, guidelines, and publications on information management, and, as a strategic advisor, he focuses on the digital transformation of archival institutions.