Knowledge sharing as a catalyst for the curation of archives through free and open-source software in South Africa

Abstract

Background: Knowledge sharing is increasingly recognised as a strategic enabler for the sustainable digital curation of archives, particularly in resource-constrained environments. In South Africa, governmental institutions and archival bodies face financial, technical and infrastructural challenges that hinder effective digital preservation and long-term access to information. Free and open-source software offers a cost-effective alternative for supporting digital curation and facilitating knowledge sharing; however, its successful implementation depends on institutional capacity, staff competencies and effective knowledge-sharing practices.
Objectives: This study investigated the role of knowledge sharing in supporting the digital curation of archives through the use of free and open-source software (FOSS) within South African governmental institutions.
Method: The study adopted an interpretivist paradigm to explore participants’ experiences and perspectives. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 purposively selected participants, including records managers, archivists, information technology specialists and officials from National Archives and Records Services of South Africa (NARSSA) and State Information Technology Agency (SITA). Thematic analysis was employed to analyse the data.
Results: The findings reveal that knowledge sharing is essential for enhancing collaboration and strengthening the skills, tools and infrastructure required for digital archive curation through FOSS. Participants highlighted the importance of knowledge exchange in supporting institutional readiness and capacity development.
Conclusion: Knowledge sharing plays a critical role in informing decisions regarding the adoption, implementation and use of FOSS for digital archive curation in governmental institutions.
Contribution: The study provides practical strategies for enhancing knowledge sharing to support sustainable digital archive curation through FOSS in South Africa.