„The excavation Team from the University of Warsaw conducting a research in Nea Paphos in Cyprus decided to transform their database from the MS Access system into the Database. Digger mainly due to the ease and flexibility of data entry in this system and full user control access to data.”

An important feature was the integration of the system with software supporting the creation of spatial models (Agisoft) and a stratigraphic matrix (Harris).

The base system has been built to provide maximum flexibility. The user is able to determine access to each record separately. An archaeologist who starts building a database can create record types (entries) that are equivalent to the structure of tables in classical database systems. Correlations are created between records, including linking record types and individual records.

Great freedom in using any type of data (text, illustration, 3D model files) and the practical lack of size limitation, makes the conversion of traditional documentation into a digital form much easier. Determining the structure of record types (entries) for a specific database is in the hands of the user. It allows to adapt the database to the site’s documentation system. After creating the structure of entry types, it is possible to change the additional record fields, which allows to eliminate unnecessary areas or add new ones. It releases us from the boundaries of predetermined templates, leaving the fundamental key elements.

Dr. Henryk Meyza,Institute of Mediterranean and Oriental Cultures of the Polish Academy of Sciences

Uniqueness. That was what I needed. The whole documentation of our Mission at the Temple of Hatshepsut in Deir el-Bahari in Egypt, both the one archived and the one created today, including 3D models, has been successfully gathered in one database, which allows also for the initial analysis of data and their reporting. Importantly, I choose have an impact on what is visible on the website available to people from around the world, and what remains in my resources. This tool also allows for monitoring excavation sites for danger risks and planning conservation activities. And it’s easy to use and intuitive.

Dr. Jadwiga Iwaszczuk,Institute of Mediterranean and Oriental Cultures of the Polish Academy of Sciences

„Digger is a database tool in which in a very clear and most importantly simple and intuitive way we can add a record. However, it’s biggest advantage is creating a quick link between records or metadata. The correlation map is the best solution for me, it will encourage the majority of users to create them at the introductory stage – monotonous entry of data / links is the biggest problem for users or entire institutions. Visualization with the help of a correlation map will convince even digitally excluded people. Professionals in the field of 3D image technologies will also find this fun and useful. Digger has a fast browser for such objects and also has tools for describing solid elements with metadata relations.”

Marcin Szmit,Department of Digitization and Archiving of the Archaeological Museum in Gdańsk, Poland