Article: The Development of a Computer-Based Curatorial System for Palaeontology at the British Museum (Natural History)

A computerized data handling system at the British Museum (Natural History) has grown out of the work of the Information Retrieval Group of the Museums Association (IRGMA) and Cambridge Geological Data System (CGDS). The system is one of great flexibility and allows the use of non-coded plain language, so that curators can quickly become familiar with the method of data entry, using a visual-display terminal. A special format for the collection and entry to the computer system of curatorial and research information has been devised, including the use of Data Recording Forms applicable to most Sections in the Department of Palaeontology. It is suggested that only by using such systems can sufficient information be recorded and handled to satisfy research needs. The availability of full specimen information should reduce the necessity for extensive additional collecting of material, and thus assist in the conservation of geological sites.