The following measures are taken to enhance the chance of future interpretability of the data.

The number of accepted file formats is small and well documented to make future conversions to other formats more feasible. As much as possible, open (non-proprietary) file formats are used. For textual resources, XML formats are used whenever possible, to ensure future interpretation of the files even if the tool that was used to create them no longer exists. The Språkbanken Text repository recommends to use formats listed in the CLARIN Standards Information System.

The Språkbanken Text participation in relevant networks like e.g. CLARIN enables steady information about recent developments in file formats and encodings. Plans to migrate or convert files will be developed if new standards arise; all relevant features of the old formats will be preserved employing reliable procedures.

For more information, see the full Språkbanken Text repository description.

Språkbanken Text Clarin repository gives further information on policies.

Data will not necessarily be stored in the delivered formats. They might be converted to more appropriate formats for long-term preservation.

Data that are not delivered in the accepted formats usually require higher curation measures. By a consultation you can receive an estimation on when the capacity for depositing the not appropriate formats.

Plain text and XML files will normally only be accepted in Unicode character encoding, including UTF-8.

As a general guideline, Språkbanken Text believes that the file formats best suited for long-term sustainability and accessibility:

• Are frequently used
• Have open specifications
• Are independent of specific software, developers or vendors