Summary listing of common outputs generated during Stratigraphic Analysis
Recommended Outputs
Site Excavation ‘Archive’
The comprehensive management and organisation of archaeological site archives involves a diverse range of analogue and digital components, each contributing to the documentation, analysis, and preservation of valuable archaeological data. Following is a list of key archaeological site archive elements, with indications of whether they might be expected to be analogue or digital outputs:
Site Documentation Outputs List:
Stratigraphic Documentation Outputs List:
Matrices and Registers:
Visual Documentation:
Digital Data:
GIS Data:
It is important to note that some elements can exist in both analogue and digital formats, depending on the specific project requirements (example file types above are for digital formats only).
Grouping & Subgrouping Recommended Outputs
Subgroup Outputs:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Subgroup Plans (Analogue/Digital) | Plans showing the spatial relationships between subgroups, including structural elements and significant finds or features. | Analogue or digital maps (e.g. .jpg, .pdf, .dxf or .dwg) |
| Subgroup Matrix (Sequence Diagram) (Analogue/Digital) | Diagrammatic representation of the stratigraphic sequence of subgroups. | Analogue/Digital matrices (e.g. .pdf, .docx, .xslx, .dwg or .json) |
Group Outputs:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Group Plans (Analogue/Digital) | Spatial representation of group, highlighting contemporary group horizons and main features. | Analogue or digital maps (e.g. .jpg, .pdf, or .dwg) |
| Group Matrix (Sequence Diagram) (Analogue/Digital) | Diagrammatic representation of the stratigraphic sequence of subgroups within each group. | Analogue/Digital matrices (e.g. .pdf, .docx, .xslx, .dwg or .json) |
Comprehensive Outputs:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Grouping Index or Index of Archaeological Association (Digital) | Comprehensive table documenting key stratigraphic, grouping, and phasing relationships between contexts on an archaeological site. | Flat file tables (e.g. .csv, .xlsx, or .ods) |
| Overall GIS Plan (Digital) | Comprehensive spatial representation of all stratigraphic groupings within the archaeological site. | Digital maps in GIS compatible formats including data tables, shapefiles, and spatial raster data Metadata (e.g. .csv, .shp, .kml, .gdb, .gml, .geojson, .geotiff) |
It is important to note that some elements can exist in both analogue and digital formats, depending on the specific project requirements (example file types above are for digital formats only)
Phasing Recommended Outputs
Please note that the formats mentioned are examples, and the actual output formats can vary depending on project requirements and preferences.
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Phased Plans (Analogue/Digital) | Maps illustrating the key contexts or groupings present in each phase. | .jpg images, or ideally GIS compatible format including data tables, shapefiles, and spatial raster data Metadata (e.g. .csv, .shp, .kml, .gdb, .gml, .geojson, .geotiff), or vector graphics format (e.g. .dxf, .dwg or svg) |
| Phased, Revised and Updated Harris Matrix (Analogue/Digital) | Modifications made to the Harris matrix to reflect the results of the phasing analysis. | Analogue/Digital matrices (e.g. .pdf, .docx, .xslx, .dwg or .json) |
| Phasing Index or Index of Archaeological Association (Digital) | A complete table that documents the key stratigraphic, grouping and phasing relationships between contexts upon an archaeological site. | Flat file tables (e.g. .csv, .xlsx, or .ods) |
| Phasing Report (Digital) | A comprehensive document outlining the results and interpretations of the phasing analysis, including the sequence of archaeological deposits and features (may form part of the narrative output). | Document (e.g. .docx or .ods) |
| Phasing Interpretations/Conclusions (Digital) | Interpretive conclusions drawn from the phasing analysis, providing insights into the development and occupation history of the site (may form part of the narrative output). | Document (e.g. .docx or .ods) |
| Stratigraphic Sequencing Descriptions (Digital) | Detailed descriptions of the stratigraphic sequencing and relationships between different layers and deposits (may form part of the narrative output). | Text Document (e.g. .docx, or .ods) or spreadsheet (e.g. .csv, .xlsx, or .ods) |
| Chronological Framework (Digital) | A framework establishing the chronological context and sequence of the archaeological site (a definitive list of periods). | Text Document (e.g. .rtf, .docx, or .ods), or graphical representation, or timeline visualisation in digital format (e.g. .jpg, .png or interactive web-based format) |
It is important to note that some elements can exist in both analogue and digital formats, depending on the specific project requirements (example file types above are for digital formats only).
Dating & Periodisation Recommended Outputs
Integration of Spot Dates and Period Assignment Outputs:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Integrated Spot Dates and Periods Matrix (Digital) | Matrix integrating spot dates with period assignments. | Spreadsheet or database file (e.g. .xlsx, .ods or .db) |
| Spot Date and Period Correlations Report (Digital) | Report correlating spot dates with periods. | PDF document or Word document (e.g. .pdf or .docx) |
Stratigraphic Harris Matrix with Spot Dates and Period Assignments:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Updated Stratigraphic Harris Matrix (Digital) | Harris matrix updated with spot dates and period assignments. | Diagram or graphic representation (e.g. .jpg or .svg) |
| Stratigraphic Harris Matrix Summary Report (Digital) | Summary report of the updated Harris matrix with spot dates and period assignments. | PDF document or Word document (e.g. .pdf or .docx) |
Period Plans and Overviews:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Period Plans (Analogue/Digital) | Visual representations of archaeological periods. | Hand-drawn or digitized maps/illustrations (e.g. .jpg or .pdf) |
| Period Overview Report (Digital) | Comprehensive report overviewing archaeological periods. | PDF document or Word document (e.g. .pdf or .docx) |
Chronological Interpretation and Analysis:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Chronological Interpretation Report (Digital) | Report interpreting chronological findings. | PDF document or Word document (e.g. .pdf or .docx) |
| Chronological Analysis Tables (Digital) | Tables analysing chronological data. | Spreadsheet or database file (e.g. .xlsx, .ods or .db) |
It is important to note that some elements can exist in both analogue and digital formats, depending on the specific project requirements (example file types above are for digital formats only).
Land Use Recommended Outputs
Please note that the formats mentioned are examples, and the actual output formats can vary depending on project requirements and preferences.
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Land Use Plan (Analogue/Digital) | Visual representation of land usage over a certain period or phase. | Hand-drawn or digital plan (e.g. .jpg, .pdf, .dxf or .dwg) |
| Land Use Diagram (Analogue/Digital) | Diagrammatic representation illustrating specific aspects or sequences of land use. | Diagram or graphic representation (e.g. .jpg , .dxf, .dwg or .svg) |
| Land Use Diagram Layout Considerations: -Orientation Decision: The orientation (portrait or landscape) of the land use diagram is determined based on the content and space requirements, ensuring optimal presentation. -Alignment with Phase Plans: Maintaining consistency, the land use diagram is aligned with the phase plans, allowing for easy comparison and understanding of the spatial relationships. -Consistent Positioning of Land Use Items: By placing the land use items in the same positions as on the plan, recognition and comprehension of the spatial relationships are enhanced. | ||
| GIS Plots or Layer Files (Digital) | Geospatial files capturing the spatial representation of land use and its attributes. | GIS files including data tables, shapefiles, and spatial raster data Metadata (e.g. .csv, .shp, .kml, .gdb, .gml, .geojson, .geotiff), or vector graphics format (e.g. .dxf, .dwg or svg) |
| Land Use Text (Digital) | Detailed textual information or description related to land use, its phases, or features. | Word document or text file (e.g. .docx or .txt) |
| Recommended Text Contents: -Summary of Each Land Use: Each land use is concisely described, highlighting its characteristics and key features, providing an overview of its significance within the site. -Component Groups/Subgroups Description: Detailed descriptions of the component groups and subgroups within each land use are provided, offering specific information on their attributes and associations Relationship of Land Use Text to Stratigraphic Narrative: -Identification of Cross-over with Stratigraphic Narrative: Connections and overlaps between the land use analysis and the stratigraphic narrative are identified, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the site’s development and the integration of both elements. -Land Use Text as Building Blocks for Narrative/Archive Report: The land use text serves as foundational elements for constructing a comprehensive narrative or archive report, integrating information from various sources to present a cohesive and detailed account of the site’s history. | ||
It is important to note that some elements can exist in both analogue and digital formats, depending on the specific project requirements (example file types above are for digital formats only).
Additional Considerations:
- Variation in Archive Report Expectations: Recognizing the differing expectations of curators regarding content and format, flexibility in report preparation is essential to meet specific requirements.
- Post-excavation Assessment Focus on Research Aims and Outputs: Further analyses, including stratigraphic work, are directed towards elements of the site that align with the research aims and desired project outputs, ensuring efficient use of resources.
Stratigraphic Narrative Recommended Outputs
Please note that the formats mentioned are examples, and the actual output formats can vary depending on project requirements and preferences.
Primary Output:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Stratigraphic Narrative Report (Analogue/Digital) | Written account of the site’s stratigraphy forming part of a larger report to explain the role of each context in site formation and present a chronological sequence. May be included in archive/publication. | PDF report, printed document (e.g. .pdf, .docx or .txt) |
| This will likely comprise some key elements: | ||
| Description of the Stratigraphic Sequence (Analogue/Digital) | Detailed and descriptive summary of the depositional sequence, written in order of deposition, highlighting stratigraphic relationships and interpretations. | Word document or text file (e.g. .docx or .txt) |
| Phased Stratigraphic Discussion (Analogue/Digital) | Synthetic interpretation of the sequence, ordered by phase, offering insights into the site’s development, spaces’ functions, and relationships with other parts of the site. | Word document or text file (e.g. .docx or .txt) |
| Supported by: | ||
| Phased Plans (Analogue/Digital) | Detailed drawings showing the layout of features within specific areas or phases of the site, providing a comprehensive view of spatial organization. | Hand-drawn plan, CAD drawing, digital graphic (e.g. .svg .dwg or .dxf) or GIS data including data tables, shapefiles, and spatial raster data Metadata (e.g. .csv, .shp, .kml, .gdb, .gml, .geojson, .geotiff), or vector graphics format (e.g. .dxf, .dwg or svg) |
Secondary (Supporting) Outputs:
| Output Category | Description | Example Output Format |
| Sections/Profiles/Elevations (Analogue/Digital) | Visual representations showing vertical slices of excavation area, illustrating stratigraphic layers and relationships, aiding in understanding the site’s vertical dimension. | Hand-drawn section/profile, digital graphic (e.g. .jpg, .png or .svg) |
| Photographic Images (Digital) | Photographs showcasing the physical remains, structures, and artefacts from the excavation, providing a visual record of the archaeological evidence. | Digital photographs, image files (e.g. .jpg, .png or .svg) |
| 3D Models (Digital) | Three-dimensional digital models of the site allowing for virtual exploration and visualization of site layout, structures, and features. | 3D digital models, interactive virtual tours (e.g. .obj or .ply) |
| Reconstruction Drawings (Analogue/Digital) | Illustrations showing hypothetical or speculative reconstructions of features, buildings, or landscapes based on archaeological evidence, providing insights into past appearance and function. | Hand-drawn drawings, digital graphic (e.g. .jpg, .png or .svg) |
| GIS Data and Outputs (Digital) | Integration of GIS to enhance analysis and understanding of spatial relationships, distributions, and site formation processes, including map creation and spatial data analysis. | GIS files including data tables, shapefiles, and spatial raster data Metadata (e.g. .csv, .shp, .kml, .gdb, .gml, .geojson, .geotiff), or vector graphics format (e.g. .dxf, .dwg or svg) |
| Digital Archive Reports (Digital) | Use of modern tech and platforms to disseminate findings, including online databases and digital archives, to ensure accessibility and promote public engagement. | Digital report online (e.g. .pdf or .docx), database entries (e.g. .db, .csv or .xlsx) |
It is important to note that some elements can exist in both analogue and digital formats, depending on the specific project requirements (example file types above are for digital formats only).