Regulations for archival classification and description: an analysis of CONARQ resolutions (1995-2021)

Abstract

Classification and archival description are considered processes of organization and representation of knowledge and information. This study analyzes the characteristics of the classification processes and the archival description provided for in the regulations in the area of ​​Archivology. It is characterized as exploratory and descriptive research. As for the methodological procedures, it is a documentary research and uses Bardin's content analysis. The corpus of the analysis are the resolutions of the National Archives Council (CONARQ); Among the resolutions, through analysis of structure and content, ten were selected that directly address the themes of archival classification and description. It carries out a horizontal analysis, linked to the classification and description observations in each of the normative instruments, while the vertical analysis seeks to define standard categories for the classification and description of these instruments. Content analysis developed the formulation of fifteen categories for classification and eight for description. In the resolutions that deal with archival classification, we see the endorsement of governance initiatives that encompass the activities and stages that factually implement the practice and development of classification in different organizational environments. As for the resolutions that deal with archival description, we have a scenario dominated by the use of models and standards for description guaranteed by norms, which, in turn, highlights the need to broaden the perception of how these guidelines can be contributory in this scenario. The number of resolutions that present approaches related to these two core archival functions represents 10% of the resolutions published by CONARQ, which highlights the need to expand this discussion.