RCAHMS nominated at British Archaeological Awards

13 June 2012

The RCAHMS Specialist User Recording Environment (SURE) initiative is one of three nominees for "Best Innovation" at the 2012 British Archaeological Awards.

The award seeks to recognise projects which lead to significant improvements in archaeological practice and which demonstrate excellence in experimental techniques, imaginative investigations and innovative solutions.

Launched in December 2011, SURE allows up to the minute archaeological and heritage data from partners in national, local and third sector organisations across Scotland to be held and updated in one place, online. Partners can enter information directly into the RCAHMS Canmore database and instantly publish the results of their work for public and professional access – any additions or changes are live and visible as soon as they are made.

First established by RCAHMS and the National Trust for Scotland, SURE now includes the Orkney Islands Council, the Garden History Society in Scotland and Treasure Trove Scotland, with more local and national organisations – including further local authorities – expected to join throughout 2012. With more partners feeding their archaeological data into SURE, public and professional users will increasingly be able to access the information they need in one place, and view online – and in real time – the results of collaborative working by a number of Scottish heritage organisations.

SURE is the only Scottish nominee at this year’s Awards, and the winner will be announced in a ceremony at the British Museum on 9 July 2012.

For more information about SURE contact susan.hamilton@rcahms.gov.uk

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