Preservation and access of cultural heritage objects through a digital archive network for anthropology

In 1999, the Archaeology Technologies Laboratory (ATL) at North Dakota State University (NDSU) began developing an Internet-based Digital Archive Network for Anthropology (DANA). This federation of databases links researchers, students, and the general public to distributed databases that include realistic, accurate, three-dimensional (3D), visual representations of artifacts, fossils, and other objects, along with 2D digitized documents (e.g., maps, plan views, excavation profiles, and photographs) and various associated data. DANA is being created through development and implementation of cross-platform, open standards that will facilitate interoperability and exchange of information between remote systems. DANA enables dynamic use of digital models, virtual measurement tools, and an array of data supplied by contributing content providers (collaborators) for education and scholarly research. This online network of anthropology resources facilitates reliable, "anytime, anywhere" access to content and services. DANA constitutes an enormously valuable learning resource that can be accessed and used at all levels, from K-12, to undergraduate, to post-graduate, to professional, to lifelong learning