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Define what should be retained
Separate original work, published versions, sources, credits and working documents. A personal archive should not become systematic collection of others’ conversations or profiles. For a group, specify continuity needs and access rules. The leaving-a-network guide complements this work when an account must close.
Name and describe files
Use a full date, subject and version rather than “final-final”. Keep original URL and language where needed. An accompanying file can explain rights, creator, changes and publication. Avoid unnecessary personal data in filenames.
Test recovery
Actually open some files and check linked documents are present. An export may have a different structure from the familiar interface. Do not promise that a download recovers all content or exchanges: consult service help and record missing items. Check external media links separately.
Maintain a controlled archive
Define who accesses copies, where they are kept and when reviewed. Keep authentication material outside the editorial index. A forgotten copy may retain information deleted from a profile. Prepare a procedure to locate and handle copies according to actual needs.
Choose the right check for the situation
These editorial pointers help prepare and review your work. Choose the situation matching your content; check current features and conditions in the cited sources before applying it to a service.
| Situation | Useful action | Mistake to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| First export | Open representative files and check text, dates, media and formats. | Confusing a completed download with a usable archive. |
| Many folders | Name service, period and version; keep a brief note explaining organisation. | Using only names such as final, final2 and latest. |
| Backup containing messages | Restrict access and retain only what serves the defined need. | Sharing a raw archive with the whole team to save time. |
| Restoration test | Retrieve a specific item and check it remains readable outside the service. | Waiting for account loss to discover missing files. |
Hypothetical example: apply the method
A team keeps original posters, published versions and a credit file. It tests opening files after handover and finds an inaccessible old external link. It records the gap without recreating invented data.
Template to adapt
Copy this outline into your working document. It collects no information on this site; complete it for your situation.
Content set: Original files: Published versions: Sources and rights: Recovery date: Missing items: Access and review:
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Frequently asked questions
Is a backup a migration?
No. A recovered file does not mean content can be imported elsewhere with links and interactions.
Should everything be kept indefinitely?
Define the need and suitable duration. Accumulation makes retrieval and control harder.
Continue with related content
Sources and scope
Primary references consulted for factual points. Methods and templates are editorial suggestions; service conditions should still be checked in current documentation.