Communication with Users
In general, the impact on users of opening access to all collections is a positive one. By providing a full picture of a repository’s holdings, users can determine on their own what is and is not relevant for their research.
Recommendations
Find clear ways to communicate to users what they might expect from a less restrictive approach to “what a processed collection looks like.” In general, collections with minimal processing will likely result in users needing additional time for research as they may have to review more material to find what is relevant to their research.
Consider articulating the level of processing to users in language that is meaningful to them. Even the use of the term “unprocessed” is often not meaningful to users, therefore shared access statements as described in the processing section may assist in communications about collections.