51 Figure 5.26. Process model for dataset outputs, schematically showing data selection and use of
templates.
52
5.5.2 Export formats
A number of data formats file types are commonly used in environmental archaeology and Quaternary science. Table 5.4 shows those identified as essential for the current
needs of SEAD. It is further anticipated that the availability of XML formats will eventually be required for all non-graphical output types. Additional format needs will
become evident under development and as the scientific community’s needs change.
Name File extensions Purpose
Excel spreadsheet Database cross-
tabulationtables xls, dbf, csv
Soil chemistryproperty data for samples Biological proxy data species lists with
abundance values Data with coordinates for GIS
... plus other tabulated data e.g. for Tilia.
MS Word Text files
doc, txt SEAD Reports site summaries,
Publicationreference lists. Web based data
retrieval asp
Data returned by and displayed on web interface note that user will be the facility to output this
in the above formats from their browser.
Maps wmf other
ArcGIS supported
exports Maps created with the GIS interface, for
inclusion in reports.
Table 5.4. Predicted common export formats for data from SEAD.
5.5.3 Templates standard recording sheets
To improve the standardisation of the recording of biological proxy counts and sample processing notes, SEAD will store standardized recording sheets which can be printed
either on the creation of a projectsitesample group or on demand. This will help to ensure the quality of data entered into SEAD, and their use by all potential user groups
will be encouraged as a form of quality assurance. These sheets will be designed in collaboration with MAL staff and external partners during the design phase. Recording
sheets for fossil insects are already in use at MAL and by partner universities in the UK and Ireland. External parties will be consulted during the design of those for other
proxies. In addition to the above, a number of documents that are commonly used by SEAD’s
target groups will be stored to improve the efficiency with which researchers can undertake these tasks. Forms for the submission of samples for carbon dating, for
example, are routinely filled in by hand by the majority of researchers. SEAD will replicate these forms as templates, and provide the facility to addenter all relevant data
through the interface and output a completed form, as modelled in Figure 5.27.
53 Figure 5.27. Process flow model showing the creation of a standard C14 submission form for Uppsala
laboratory, with user inputselected data including sample and submitter contact details.
5.6 Documentation
Good documentation is essential in both the continued use and future enhancement of a database system. Four levels of project documentation are envisioned:
i Inline documentation of programming code and database objects – to enable future
developers to rapidly gain an understanding of the system. In addition, programming and development logs will be maintained in which all changes will be recorded.
