EAD/XML finding aids are rendered into HTML on the fly using DynaWeb from Enigma, and as such are usable in any web browser. DynaWeb also provides sophisticated indexing and searching capabilities. EAD/XML finding aids are also available to users with XML/XSLT compatible web browsers, though this method does not allow for searching across finding aids or tag level searching within them.
With an initial phase of retrospective conversion of existing finding aids complete, Duke is now concentrating on two fronts. The first seeks to refine the process of creating new finding aids using XMetaL, an XML authoring software by Softquad, and web forms. The second involves participating in the North Carolina Encoded Archival Description (NCEAD) consortium to standardize EAD encoding practice. Duke is integrating the writing and encoding process for new finding aids using a combination of web-forms, XMetaL, and macros. The web form is used to enter information that is processed into the header and collection level description sections ofwsers as well as in the DynaWeb system.
The process of writing and encoding finding aids is performed by both students and professional staff. Student responsibilities include processing collections and writing container lists. Staff members complete the finding aids with header and collection level information and bibliographic records, as well as performing other quality control functions.
All finding aids are encoded according to a set of guidelines written by the members of the North Carolina Encoded Archival Description (NCEAD) consortia. At present, this consortia includes North Carolina State University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, State Archives of North Carolina, and Duke University. The NCEAD AG seeks to standardize EAD encoding at the four institutions in order to present users with a set of consistently encoded finding aids.
For more information about Duke EAD see http://scriptorium.lib.duke.edu/findaid/ead