The reality for all of us is that media will change over time and file formats will change over time. If you REALLY want your research to last:
- Store your data in simple, open, industry-standard file formats (nothing beats Plain Text)
- Avoid proprietary formats tied to a particular company (e.g., Microsoft Word) or tied to a particular computer platform
- Store your data on multiple media: acid-free paper, CDs and/or DVDs, hard disk(s), flash drive(s)
- Upload your data to a central server (like Rootsweb.com)
- Regularly verify your stored archives and refresh your data onto new media
And last but not least, the single most important way to get your research to last: SHARE IT !!
