The Specialist User Recording Environment

Launched in 2011, SURE – the Specialist User Recording Environment – 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, Dundee City and Scottish Borders Councils, the Garden History Society in Scotland, Scottish Canals and Treasure Trove Scotland, with more local and national organisations – including further local authorities – joining on a regular basis. As partners feed 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 was nominated for "Best Innovation" at the 2012 British Archaeological Awards – shortlisted as a project which has led to significant improvement in archaeological practice and which has demonstrated excellence in innovative solutions.