Preservica, a leading provider of digital preservation technology, has launched a new version of its archiving software designed specifically for UK local authorities. The updated system aims to improve the efficiency and compliance of record-keeping teams tasked with managing long-term and permanent digital records under laws such as the UK Public Records Act, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and UK GDPR.
The new “UK Local Government edition” of the software has been developed in collaboration with nearly 50 UK local authority records offices and archives. It comes pre-configured with folders, metadata, and workflows to help councils quickly establish secure repositories for various digital records, ranging from democratic services to land planning, infrastructure, and historical archives.
Ensuring Record Reliability
The system uses Preservica’s unique Active Digital Preservation™ technology to automatically ensure that critical long-term records remain accurate, complete, and accessible. One of the key benefits of this software is its ability to preserve records in readable formats for decades, minimising the risk of non-compliance and ensuring that government departments can quickly retrieve files for operational purposes or to handle Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.
The platform also includes a built-in portal that allows for public records to be published online, enhancing the transparency and accessibility of government data.
Integrated with Microsoft 365
A significant feature of the new edition is its optional integration with Microsoft 365, allowing councils to transfer and retrieve long-term records as part of their everyday SharePoint workflows. This integration simplifies the process for government staff by automating and standardising records management using Microsoft tools such as retention labels and Power Automate. It also connects to other common government applications and catalogue systems used across the UK.
Sam Johnston, Service Manager for Archives and Records at Dorset History Centre, praised the software for helping to streamline operations. “Preservica has provided us with a cost-effective solution for securely preserving and sharing records through an online digital archive. The ready-configured folders, metadata, and workflows for key record types will enable us to improve efficiency further,” he said.
Driving Efficiency and Transparency
The need for effective digital preservation is growing as UK government bodies face increased pressure to enhance transparency and deliver services more efficiently. The new edition of Preservica’s software aims to address these challenges by making it easier for councils to manage long-term records and comply with their legal obligations.
Mike Quinn, CEO of Preservica, said: “Open and digital government creates new challenges in the way long-term digital information is captured, protected, and made accessible. As public sector institutions are being asked to deliver more transparency and efficiency, the need for sustainable and automated digital preservation is increasing each year. It is encouraging to see more local and central government agencies adopting Preservica’s software.”
The software’s ability to reduce the time spent handling FOI requests and enhance public access to records is expected to drive widespread adoption among UK local authorities.
For more information on the Preservica UK Local Government edition, visit: Preservica for UK Government.