Informing the Future of the Past (IFP) 2022 - AWARD

The purpose of this work is to ensure guidance for Historic Environment Records (HERs) is up-to-date and easily accessible. Current guidance, also referred to as Informing the Future of the Past, is available as an online manual that uses a wiki format and is delivered via the Archaeology Data Service (https://archaeologydataservice.ac.uk/ifp/). It was published in 2012 and although the original intention was to regularly update sections, this has not taken place.

The consultancy work will be based on liaison with the HER community, Heritage Information Partnership (HIPS) team and others to: 1. Develop detailed proposals for restructuring IFP to better align with current audit practices. 2. Carry out research to identify different options for a new digital home for IFP 2022. 3. Secure agreement from sector partners on a new IFP structure and digital platform. 4. Complete a detailed timetable for re-drafting and uploading IFP content to the new digital platform. 5. Draft a restructured IFP that incorporates existing content where appropriate. 6. Draft updates to key sections of IFP. 7. Research the most cost-effective and interactive approaches to training staff responsible for maintaining the HER and, in the light of these findings, develop a training plan in consultation with sector specialists. 8. Develop a sustainable plan to keep IFP up-to-date and establish it as a live suite of resources.