Processing Rates

There are many ways to process collections and archivists bring a variety of approaches, levels of experience, subject knowledge, and other strengths and weaknesses. Very few processors would process the same collection in the same way, however it is possible to derive some averages across institutions and across the profession for how long processing will take, taking into consideration the level of control achieved and the initial state of the materials. The chart of processing rates below is designed to help determine the time and resources needed for a processing project, depending on the level of processing desired.

The hours per linear foot represent a range. The lower end would be reserved for materials that are in good condition while the high end would be for materials that are in poor condition. 

For examples, see: Processing Rates Case Studies