File Formats Policy for KEEP
File formats are standard ways that information is encoded for storage in a digital computer file. The standards specify how bits are used to encode information, and they tell software programs how to display its contents.
ASU's digital content repositories accept digital files in widely-adopted formats that have the best likelihood for long-term sustainability. Selectivity in formats accepted for deposit is due to the challenge of maintaining file functionality over time. Characteristics of file formats that are correlated with better digital preservation outcomes include, but are not limited to, the following:
- non-proprietary
- extensively documented
- unencrypted
- in wide public use
- do not contain embedded programs or scripts
- not controlled by DRM (digital rights management) software
ASU Library is committed to preserving the binary form of deposited materials and takes measures to preserve the look and feel of deposited digital objects, as resources permit. This may involve migrating files to open and accessible file format standards, or using emerging technology when necessary.
Examples of preferred file formats include:
- PDF for documents and presentations (Microsoft Word documents must be converted prior to submission by the depositor)
- JPEG or TIFF for images
- MP4 or MOV for video
- WAV or MP3 for audio
ASU Library reserves the right to decline to accept file formats that are inadequately supported in its repository environment, or those that present obstacles to access or preservation. Please contact us if you have any questions concerning preparing your files for deposit.