Anthony Corns | The Discovery Programme (original) (raw)

Papers by Anthony Corns

Research paper thumbnail of Virtual Historic Centers: Digital Representation of Archaeological Heritage

Handbook of Cultural Heritage Analysis

Research paper thumbnail of Virtual Heritage Learning Environments

Digital Heritage. Progress in Cultural Heritage: Documentation, Preservation, and Protection, 2021

The change and restrictions in how we react with cultural heritage because of the COVID-19 pandem... more The change and restrictions in how we react with cultural heritage because of the COVID-19 pandemic has created an urgency in advancing remote and digital access to objects and sites. This paper outlines the process for developing Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) using digital recording and modelling of architectural heritage and archaeology. Virtual Reality (VR) software, game engine platforms and WEB platforms are outlined which can be applied to represent heritage sites in addition to emerging screen based technological learning systems. The application Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) and Game Engine Platforms for creating Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) is also examined. The design-theory based on Virtual Learning Objects for cultural heritage is explored. Two case studies are explored for their potential to create Virtual Heritage Learning Environments. Finally, a design framework is proposed for developing Virtual Heritage Learning Environments.

Research paper thumbnail of Tripping the Light Fantastic: Using Light-Based Techniques to Digitally Document Megalithic Architecture

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Losing the edge – gaining ground

Louise Barker, CHERISH project, Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales... more Louise Barker, CHERISH project, Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales CHERISH (Climate, Heritage and Environments of Reefs, Islands and Headlands) is a five-year (2017-2021), €5.2 million EU project, funded through the Ireland Wales Cooperation Programme 2014-2020, bringing together a cross-disciplinary team from the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales; the Discovery Programme, Ireland; Aberystwyth University: Department of Geography and Earth Sciences; and Geological Survey Ireland. The team are undertaking investigations at several iconic coastal locations to raise awareness and understanding of the past, present and future impacts of climate change on the rich cultural heritage of the Irish and Welsh regional seas and coast.

Research paper thumbnail of DPASSH 2015 pre-print papers

Research paper thumbnail of 3D-ICONS: Digitising our Cultural Heritage Structures for Scientific and Public Use

Research paper thumbnail of Irish Archaeological Data: Towards a framework

Research paper thumbnail of Recording Archaeological Excavation Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Low-Cost Balloon-Based Photogrammetry

The Discovery Programme has successfully implemented terrestrial laser scanning for the recording... more The Discovery Programme has successfully implemented terrestrial laser scanning for the recording of archaeological excavations. However, a number of weaknesses in the process were identified, particularly the poor quality of the derived orthoimages, the basic visual record of the excavation. Searching for a solution lead us to consider the potential of using a low-cost PC based photogrammetric system. In these systems images are taken using inexpensive non-metric cameras and processed in the software to generate DEM's and orthoimages. A helium kite/balloon was implemented as a low level aerial platform from which to capture our images. This paper describes the practicalities encountered in operating such a system using comparative data from our excavation. Our research ultimately addresses the question as to how these technologies relate to each other. Are they competing or complementary approaches to the recording process?

Research paper thumbnail of High Resolution Airborne LiDAR for the Recording of Archaeological Monuments

Within the archaeological community the application of traditional ground based survey techniques... more Within the archaeological community the application of traditional ground based survey techniques for the 3-dimensional recording of monuments has been successful, but with several limitations. Within the past seven years the application of LiDAR technology for the capture of landscape topography data has been used to great effect. However, the accuracy and resolution of height data created using fixed wing sensor platforms does not effectively record the subtle monument features that can be recorded using ground based survey methods. This paper describes the use of the FLI-MAP 400 helicopter LiDAR system in the production of high resolution DTMs and DSMs. Three contrasting archaeological monuments and landscapes were recorded using this technology. This paper describes the data capture, processing and subsequent visualization of the resulting topographic surface models. Finally the economic benefits of employing this technology is discussed in comparison with conventional ground ba...

Research paper thumbnail of Shape Grammar Libraries of European Classical Architectural Elements for Historic Bim

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2021

This paper proposes a design for libraries of European Classical architectural elements based on ... more This paper proposes a design for libraries of European Classical architectural elements based on shape grammars. This design is based on a workflow which develops library objects from 3D CAD primitives using architectural rules to construct parametric representations of architectural elements. In the case of Classical architecture, the design and detail for the parametric objects are based on manuscripts ranging from Vitruvius to Palladio to the architectural pattern books of the eighteenth century. The generation of 3D objects for virtual reconstruction necessitates the application of computer algorithms and rules introduced by the user to generate objects, buildings and spaces from a grammar and vocabulary of shapes. Both the use of graphicly constructed and coded parametric libraries in formal and open-source platforms will be considered here.

Research paper thumbnail of Coastal Erosion and the Promontory Fort: Appearance and Use during Late Iron Age and Early Medieval County Waterford, Ireland

Sustainability, 2020

Promontory forts are an understudied but distinctive maritime archaeological feature from the Iro... more Promontory forts are an understudied but distinctive maritime archaeological feature from the Iron Age to the early medieval period from northern Spain to Scotland. Their coastal location renders them susceptible to erosion and loss to history, a situation exacerbated by increased storm frequency and sea level rise. Reconstruction of their original form is important to determine their role in the society of the time. This paper concentrates on a particularly notable group of promontory forts along the Copper Coast of Co. Waterford, where traces of up to 32 remain today within a 24 km stretch of coastline. The methodology has involved using oral tradition, historical records and field survey. This has been enhanced by aerial survey using drones and light aircraft. This paper models the data to estimate areas eroded and show how forts were once significantly larger and dominated coastal resources with an economy of farming, fishing, mining and trading. This paper calculates a likely e...

Research paper thumbnail of One Archaeology: A Manifesto for the Systematic and Effective Use of Mapped Data from Archaeological Fieldwork and Research

Information, 2020

The Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe (INSPIRE) Directive (2007) requires public o... more The Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe (INSPIRE) Directive (2007) requires public organisations across Europe to share environmentally-related spatial datasets to support decision making and management of the environment. Despite the environmental focus of INSPIRE, it offers limited guidance for archaeological datasets. Most primary data is created outside, but ultimately curated within, the public sector. As spatial evidence from fieldwork activities is not considered by the Directive, it overlooks a range of barriers to sharing data, such as project-based fieldwork, a lack of data standards, and formatting and licencing variations. This paper submits that these challenges are best addressed through the formalised management of primary research data through an archaeological Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI). SDIs deliver more efficient data management and release economic value by saving time and money. Better stewardship of archaeological data will also lead to more...

Research paper thumbnail of Lidar and World Heritage Sites in Ireland

Interpreting Archaeological Topography, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of An Initial Design Framework for Virtual Historic Dublin

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2019

As a single coherent model, the proposed Virtual Historic Dublin City will improve the current ap... more As a single coherent model, the proposed Virtual Historic Dublin City will improve the current approaches for planning, conserving, presenting and interpreting cultural heritage buildings and their environments. The combination of digital recording, modelling and data management systems enable the interaction with complex, interlinked three-dimensional structures containing rich and diverse underlying data. End users can encompass architectural and engineering conservation, education and research, in addition to public engagement and cultural tourism. In this paper a digital design framework is presented, based on state of the art current approaches for recording, modelling and presenting Virtual Historic Dublin. The modelling sites and structures is based on remotely sensed survey data which is processed and modelled in Historic BIM or GIS allowing the addition of semantic attributes. Archiving and storage of both models and knowledge and information attributes requires open systems and server data base capable of handling vector and point cloud information in addition to other digital data. The dissemination and interaction with the models and attached knowledge attributions is based on combining game engine platforms, Historic BIM, Historic GIS and access to compatible storage and data base.

Research paper thumbnail of A Review of 3D Gis for Use in Creating Virtual Historic Dublin

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2019

This paper illustrates how BIM integration with GIS is approached as part of the workflow in crea... more This paper illustrates how BIM integration with GIS is approached as part of the workflow in creating Virtual Historic Dublin. A design for a WEB based interactive 3D model of historic buildings and centres in Dublin City (Virtual Historic Dublin City) paralleling smart city initiates is now under construction and led by the National Monuments at the Office of Public Works in Ireland. The aim is to facilitate the conservation and maintenance of historic infrastructure and fabric and the dissemination of knowledge for education and cultural tourism using an extensive Historic Building Information Model. Remote sensing data is now processed with greater ease to create 3D intelligent models in Historic BIM. While the use of remote sensing, HBIM and game engine platforms are the main applications used at present, 3D GIS has potential to form part of the workflow for developing the Virtual Historic City. 2D GIS is now being replaced by 3D spatial data allowing more complex analysis to be carried out, 3D GIS can define and depict buildings, urban rural centres in relation to their geometry topological, semantic and visualisation properties. The addition of semantic attributes allows complex analysis and 3D spatial queries for modelling city and urban elements. This analysis includes fabric and structural elements of buildings, relief, vegetation, transportation, water bodies, city furniture and land use.

Research paper thumbnail of 3D-ICONS Ireland – fulfilling the potential of a rich 3D resource

Internet Archaeology, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of Developing Historic Building Information Modelling Guidelines and Procedures for Architectural Heritage in Ireland

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2017

Cultural heritage researchers have recently begun applying Building Information Modelling (BIM) t... more Cultural heritage researchers have recently begun applying Building Information Modelling (BIM) to historic buildings. The model is comprised of intelligent objects with semantic attributes which represent the elements of a building structure and are organised within a 3D virtual environment. Case studies in Ireland are used to test and develop the suitable systems for (a) data capture/digital surveying/processing (b) developing library of architectural components and (c) mapping these architectural components onto the laser scan or digital survey to relate the intelligent virtual representation of a historic structure (HBIM). While BIM platforms have the potential to create a virtual and intelligent representation of a building, its full exploitation and use is restricted to narrow set of expert users with access to costly hardware, software and skills. The testing of open BIM approaches in particular IFCs and the use of game engine platforms is a fundamental component for developing much wider dissemination. The semantically enriched model can be transferred into a WEB based game engine platform.

Research paper thumbnail of Why the Historic Environment needs a Spatial Data Infrastructure

Internet Archaeology, 2017

The INSPIRE Directive (2007) mandates European Union countries to share environment-related datas... more The INSPIRE Directive (2007) mandates European Union countries to share environment-related datasets so that they can be easily accessed by other public organisations within their own and neighbouring countries to inform policies or activities that may impact on the environment. Key to delivering INSPIRE is the establishment of Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs) providing frameworks for coordinating the policies, infrastructure and standards needed to acquire, process, distribute, use, maintain and preserve spatial data through discovery, view and download services by 2020. Archaeological information is inherently spatial yet, despite the environmental focus of INSPIRE, guidance is limited and ambiguous for archaeological datasets and consequentially there is limited engagement from data curators. Although Protected Sites is an INSPIRE theme, does it cover only those formally designated through legislation or include sites managed through legal or other effective means? INSPIRE publishes data to help inform environmental policies and if data is unpublished there is a risk it will simply be ignored. Complex modelling of environmental change through Ecosystem Services remotely consuming web services is already happening but the lack of published reference datasets from the historic environment compromises consideration of the resource in decision making processes. Development of SDIs for heritage can bring wider benefits for the profession. Too often fieldwork extents and results are confined to paper publications or reside in project archives. Consequentially we lack a spatial record of fieldwork activities. Although cultural heritage data often has a strong spatial component, the full potential of the geographies created through discovery, recording and analysis is far from being realised. Harmonisation and publication of spatial data to consistent standards through an SDI is an essential pre-requisite for mainstreaming the use of heritage data in the 21st century to get cultural heritage to work for Europe.

Research paper thumbnail of Developing a Spatial Data Infrastructure for Archaeological and Built Heritage

International Journal of Spatial Data Infrastructures Research, ,, Jun 19, 2011

Although the INSPIRE Directive provides a roadmap and technical specifications for providing inte... more Although the INSPIRE Directive provides a roadmap and technical specifications for providing interoperability of spatial information created and held by public bodies across Europe, its relevance to archaeological and built heritage information is unclear. Whilst there is a clear need for access to information about the historic environment by a range of audiences actively engaged in the management of Europe's rich heritage, delivery of relevant services is restricted to a narrow interpretation of the Annex I Protected Sites theme that focuses on statutory designations. This paper explores business reasons for adopting a more expansive interpretation of what information should be considered as and distributed as part of the Protected Sites theme in order to support policies and activities that impact upon the wider historic environment. The paper also considers the range and potential of information created through investigation and recording of the historic environment, often at public expense or interest. The potential for data reuse generating savings, inspiring smarter working practices, and developing sustainable datasets is explored through case studies from Scotland and Ireland and proposals to establish a thematic geo-portal, web services and applications through the EU Culture funded project ArchaeoLandscapes Europe (ArcLand), are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Irish Archaeological Data: Toward a Framework

New Review of Information Networking, 2015

The EU co-funded project Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Dataset Networking i... more The EU co-funded project Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Dataset Networking in Europe (ARIADNE) aims to integrate data and services across Europe for the archaeological research community. The Discovery Programme has investigated data holdings and management practices in Irish archaeology, focusing on what information is available in physical and digital forms, approaches to preservation and accessibility, and the challenges and opportunities around dataset networking with Irish archaeological data. While significant work will be required to enable the accessibility expected by researchers now and in future, there is also an opportunity to approach the challenges of digital preservation as a community.

Research paper thumbnail of Virtual Historic Centers: Digital Representation of Archaeological Heritage

Handbook of Cultural Heritage Analysis

Research paper thumbnail of Virtual Heritage Learning Environments

Digital Heritage. Progress in Cultural Heritage: Documentation, Preservation, and Protection, 2021

The change and restrictions in how we react with cultural heritage because of the COVID-19 pandem... more The change and restrictions in how we react with cultural heritage because of the COVID-19 pandemic has created an urgency in advancing remote and digital access to objects and sites. This paper outlines the process for developing Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) using digital recording and modelling of architectural heritage and archaeology. Virtual Reality (VR) software, game engine platforms and WEB platforms are outlined which can be applied to represent heritage sites in addition to emerging screen based technological learning systems. The application Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) and Game Engine Platforms for creating Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) is also examined. The design-theory based on Virtual Learning Objects for cultural heritage is explored. Two case studies are explored for their potential to create Virtual Heritage Learning Environments. Finally, a design framework is proposed for developing Virtual Heritage Learning Environments.

Research paper thumbnail of Tripping the Light Fantastic: Using Light-Based Techniques to Digitally Document Megalithic Architecture

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2022

Research paper thumbnail of Losing the edge – gaining ground

Louise Barker, CHERISH project, Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales... more Louise Barker, CHERISH project, Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales CHERISH (Climate, Heritage and Environments of Reefs, Islands and Headlands) is a five-year (2017-2021), €5.2 million EU project, funded through the Ireland Wales Cooperation Programme 2014-2020, bringing together a cross-disciplinary team from the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales; the Discovery Programme, Ireland; Aberystwyth University: Department of Geography and Earth Sciences; and Geological Survey Ireland. The team are undertaking investigations at several iconic coastal locations to raise awareness and understanding of the past, present and future impacts of climate change on the rich cultural heritage of the Irish and Welsh regional seas and coast.

Research paper thumbnail of DPASSH 2015 pre-print papers

Research paper thumbnail of 3D-ICONS: Digitising our Cultural Heritage Structures for Scientific and Public Use

Research paper thumbnail of Irish Archaeological Data: Towards a framework

Research paper thumbnail of Recording Archaeological Excavation Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning and Low-Cost Balloon-Based Photogrammetry

The Discovery Programme has successfully implemented terrestrial laser scanning for the recording... more The Discovery Programme has successfully implemented terrestrial laser scanning for the recording of archaeological excavations. However, a number of weaknesses in the process were identified, particularly the poor quality of the derived orthoimages, the basic visual record of the excavation. Searching for a solution lead us to consider the potential of using a low-cost PC based photogrammetric system. In these systems images are taken using inexpensive non-metric cameras and processed in the software to generate DEM's and orthoimages. A helium kite/balloon was implemented as a low level aerial platform from which to capture our images. This paper describes the practicalities encountered in operating such a system using comparative data from our excavation. Our research ultimately addresses the question as to how these technologies relate to each other. Are they competing or complementary approaches to the recording process?

Research paper thumbnail of High Resolution Airborne LiDAR for the Recording of Archaeological Monuments

Within the archaeological community the application of traditional ground based survey techniques... more Within the archaeological community the application of traditional ground based survey techniques for the 3-dimensional recording of monuments has been successful, but with several limitations. Within the past seven years the application of LiDAR technology for the capture of landscape topography data has been used to great effect. However, the accuracy and resolution of height data created using fixed wing sensor platforms does not effectively record the subtle monument features that can be recorded using ground based survey methods. This paper describes the use of the FLI-MAP 400 helicopter LiDAR system in the production of high resolution DTMs and DSMs. Three contrasting archaeological monuments and landscapes were recorded using this technology. This paper describes the data capture, processing and subsequent visualization of the resulting topographic surface models. Finally the economic benefits of employing this technology is discussed in comparison with conventional ground ba...

Research paper thumbnail of Shape Grammar Libraries of European Classical Architectural Elements for Historic Bim

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2021

This paper proposes a design for libraries of European Classical architectural elements based on ... more This paper proposes a design for libraries of European Classical architectural elements based on shape grammars. This design is based on a workflow which develops library objects from 3D CAD primitives using architectural rules to construct parametric representations of architectural elements. In the case of Classical architecture, the design and detail for the parametric objects are based on manuscripts ranging from Vitruvius to Palladio to the architectural pattern books of the eighteenth century. The generation of 3D objects for virtual reconstruction necessitates the application of computer algorithms and rules introduced by the user to generate objects, buildings and spaces from a grammar and vocabulary of shapes. Both the use of graphicly constructed and coded parametric libraries in formal and open-source platforms will be considered here.

Research paper thumbnail of Coastal Erosion and the Promontory Fort: Appearance and Use during Late Iron Age and Early Medieval County Waterford, Ireland

Sustainability, 2020

Promontory forts are an understudied but distinctive maritime archaeological feature from the Iro... more Promontory forts are an understudied but distinctive maritime archaeological feature from the Iron Age to the early medieval period from northern Spain to Scotland. Their coastal location renders them susceptible to erosion and loss to history, a situation exacerbated by increased storm frequency and sea level rise. Reconstruction of their original form is important to determine their role in the society of the time. This paper concentrates on a particularly notable group of promontory forts along the Copper Coast of Co. Waterford, where traces of up to 32 remain today within a 24 km stretch of coastline. The methodology has involved using oral tradition, historical records and field survey. This has been enhanced by aerial survey using drones and light aircraft. This paper models the data to estimate areas eroded and show how forts were once significantly larger and dominated coastal resources with an economy of farming, fishing, mining and trading. This paper calculates a likely e...

Research paper thumbnail of One Archaeology: A Manifesto for the Systematic and Effective Use of Mapped Data from Archaeological Fieldwork and Research

Information, 2020

The Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe (INSPIRE) Directive (2007) requires public o... more The Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe (INSPIRE) Directive (2007) requires public organisations across Europe to share environmentally-related spatial datasets to support decision making and management of the environment. Despite the environmental focus of INSPIRE, it offers limited guidance for archaeological datasets. Most primary data is created outside, but ultimately curated within, the public sector. As spatial evidence from fieldwork activities is not considered by the Directive, it overlooks a range of barriers to sharing data, such as project-based fieldwork, a lack of data standards, and formatting and licencing variations. This paper submits that these challenges are best addressed through the formalised management of primary research data through an archaeological Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI). SDIs deliver more efficient data management and release economic value by saving time and money. Better stewardship of archaeological data will also lead to more...

Research paper thumbnail of Lidar and World Heritage Sites in Ireland

Interpreting Archaeological Topography, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of An Initial Design Framework for Virtual Historic Dublin

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2019

As a single coherent model, the proposed Virtual Historic Dublin City will improve the current ap... more As a single coherent model, the proposed Virtual Historic Dublin City will improve the current approaches for planning, conserving, presenting and interpreting cultural heritage buildings and their environments. The combination of digital recording, modelling and data management systems enable the interaction with complex, interlinked three-dimensional structures containing rich and diverse underlying data. End users can encompass architectural and engineering conservation, education and research, in addition to public engagement and cultural tourism. In this paper a digital design framework is presented, based on state of the art current approaches for recording, modelling and presenting Virtual Historic Dublin. The modelling sites and structures is based on remotely sensed survey data which is processed and modelled in Historic BIM or GIS allowing the addition of semantic attributes. Archiving and storage of both models and knowledge and information attributes requires open systems and server data base capable of handling vector and point cloud information in addition to other digital data. The dissemination and interaction with the models and attached knowledge attributions is based on combining game engine platforms, Historic BIM, Historic GIS and access to compatible storage and data base.

Research paper thumbnail of A Review of 3D Gis for Use in Creating Virtual Historic Dublin

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2019

This paper illustrates how BIM integration with GIS is approached as part of the workflow in crea... more This paper illustrates how BIM integration with GIS is approached as part of the workflow in creating Virtual Historic Dublin. A design for a WEB based interactive 3D model of historic buildings and centres in Dublin City (Virtual Historic Dublin City) paralleling smart city initiates is now under construction and led by the National Monuments at the Office of Public Works in Ireland. The aim is to facilitate the conservation and maintenance of historic infrastructure and fabric and the dissemination of knowledge for education and cultural tourism using an extensive Historic Building Information Model. Remote sensing data is now processed with greater ease to create 3D intelligent models in Historic BIM. While the use of remote sensing, HBIM and game engine platforms are the main applications used at present, 3D GIS has potential to form part of the workflow for developing the Virtual Historic City. 2D GIS is now being replaced by 3D spatial data allowing more complex analysis to be carried out, 3D GIS can define and depict buildings, urban rural centres in relation to their geometry topological, semantic and visualisation properties. The addition of semantic attributes allows complex analysis and 3D spatial queries for modelling city and urban elements. This analysis includes fabric and structural elements of buildings, relief, vegetation, transportation, water bodies, city furniture and land use.

Research paper thumbnail of 3D-ICONS Ireland – fulfilling the potential of a rich 3D resource

Internet Archaeology, 2017

Research paper thumbnail of Developing Historic Building Information Modelling Guidelines and Procedures for Architectural Heritage in Ireland

The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2017

Cultural heritage researchers have recently begun applying Building Information Modelling (BIM) t... more Cultural heritage researchers have recently begun applying Building Information Modelling (BIM) to historic buildings. The model is comprised of intelligent objects with semantic attributes which represent the elements of a building structure and are organised within a 3D virtual environment. Case studies in Ireland are used to test and develop the suitable systems for (a) data capture/digital surveying/processing (b) developing library of architectural components and (c) mapping these architectural components onto the laser scan or digital survey to relate the intelligent virtual representation of a historic structure (HBIM). While BIM platforms have the potential to create a virtual and intelligent representation of a building, its full exploitation and use is restricted to narrow set of expert users with access to costly hardware, software and skills. The testing of open BIM approaches in particular IFCs and the use of game engine platforms is a fundamental component for developing much wider dissemination. The semantically enriched model can be transferred into a WEB based game engine platform.

Research paper thumbnail of Why the Historic Environment needs a Spatial Data Infrastructure

Internet Archaeology, 2017

The INSPIRE Directive (2007) mandates European Union countries to share environment-related datas... more The INSPIRE Directive (2007) mandates European Union countries to share environment-related datasets so that they can be easily accessed by other public organisations within their own and neighbouring countries to inform policies or activities that may impact on the environment. Key to delivering INSPIRE is the establishment of Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs) providing frameworks for coordinating the policies, infrastructure and standards needed to acquire, process, distribute, use, maintain and preserve spatial data through discovery, view and download services by 2020. Archaeological information is inherently spatial yet, despite the environmental focus of INSPIRE, guidance is limited and ambiguous for archaeological datasets and consequentially there is limited engagement from data curators. Although Protected Sites is an INSPIRE theme, does it cover only those formally designated through legislation or include sites managed through legal or other effective means? INSPIRE publishes data to help inform environmental policies and if data is unpublished there is a risk it will simply be ignored. Complex modelling of environmental change through Ecosystem Services remotely consuming web services is already happening but the lack of published reference datasets from the historic environment compromises consideration of the resource in decision making processes. Development of SDIs for heritage can bring wider benefits for the profession. Too often fieldwork extents and results are confined to paper publications or reside in project archives. Consequentially we lack a spatial record of fieldwork activities. Although cultural heritage data often has a strong spatial component, the full potential of the geographies created through discovery, recording and analysis is far from being realised. Harmonisation and publication of spatial data to consistent standards through an SDI is an essential pre-requisite for mainstreaming the use of heritage data in the 21st century to get cultural heritage to work for Europe.

Research paper thumbnail of Developing a Spatial Data Infrastructure for Archaeological and Built Heritage

International Journal of Spatial Data Infrastructures Research, ,, Jun 19, 2011

Although the INSPIRE Directive provides a roadmap and technical specifications for providing inte... more Although the INSPIRE Directive provides a roadmap and technical specifications for providing interoperability of spatial information created and held by public bodies across Europe, its relevance to archaeological and built heritage information is unclear. Whilst there is a clear need for access to information about the historic environment by a range of audiences actively engaged in the management of Europe's rich heritage, delivery of relevant services is restricted to a narrow interpretation of the Annex I Protected Sites theme that focuses on statutory designations. This paper explores business reasons for adopting a more expansive interpretation of what information should be considered as and distributed as part of the Protected Sites theme in order to support policies and activities that impact upon the wider historic environment. The paper also considers the range and potential of information created through investigation and recording of the historic environment, often at public expense or interest. The potential for data reuse generating savings, inspiring smarter working practices, and developing sustainable datasets is explored through case studies from Scotland and Ireland and proposals to establish a thematic geo-portal, web services and applications through the EU Culture funded project ArchaeoLandscapes Europe (ArcLand), are discussed.

Research paper thumbnail of Irish Archaeological Data: Toward a Framework

New Review of Information Networking, 2015

The EU co-funded project Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Dataset Networking i... more The EU co-funded project Advanced Research Infrastructure for Archaeological Dataset Networking in Europe (ARIADNE) aims to integrate data and services across Europe for the archaeological research community. The Discovery Programme has investigated data holdings and management practices in Irish archaeology, focusing on what information is available in physical and digital forms, approaches to preservation and accessibility, and the challenges and opportunities around dataset networking with Irish archaeological data. While significant work will be required to enable the accessibility expected by researchers now and in future, there is also an opportunity to approach the challenges of digital preservation as a community.