archium® microsheets and their contribution to savings in archives

archium® microsheets are a hybrid archiving solution that stores digital and digitized documents in a miniaturized, high-resolution, and color form on acid-free archival paper (according to DIN ISO 9706). This technology combines the advantages of digital storage (fast access) with analog longevity (durability of over 200–300 years), making it ideal for archives. They contribute to efficiency improvements by simplifying workflows, accelerating access, and optimizing management. At the same time, they optimize resources through a massive reduction in space, costs, energy consumption, and material use, while promoting sustainability.

Efficiency improvement through simplification of workflows and access

microsheets increase efficiency in archives by seamlessly bridging the transition between digital and analog storage and minimizing dependencies on complex technology:

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    Faster access and retrieval: Each file on a microsheet is equipped with a QR code containing metadata such as file name, creation date, and content description. This enables rapid identification of documents via the table of contents and keyword index generated from the metadata. Automated re-digitization using common office equipment such as smartphones or scanners – without specialized reading devices as required for microfilm – is possible. Contents can be immediately re-digitized, significantly reducing search and retrieval times.
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    Simplified data management and compliance: Integration into archium®’s arTUX archive database enables a hybrid structure in which digital data is secured analogously in parallel. This reduces the effort required for migrations and simplifies compliance with regulations such as the GDPR, since microsheets only become relevant upon disposal. The process includes table of contents and keyword indexes that allow access similar to an encyclopedia, thereby increasing efficiency in management.
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    Mobility and flexibility: The compact form makes archives portable – one shelf-kilometer corresponds to just two Euro pallets with 180 boxes each. This optimizes logistics and enables efficient relocations or decentralized storage, saving time and personnel resources.

With archium® microsheets, you can save the costs for planning, construction, and operation of a new archive building!

Resource optimization through reduction of space, costs, energy, and materials

microsheets optimize resources by relying on analog storage that is independent of electricity, internet, and technology. This minimizes ongoing consumption, IT costs, personnel expenses, and maximizes lifespan:

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    Space optimization: The high storage density (3 times higher than microfilm) enables miniaturization: Up to 28,000 A4 pages fit into a single archive box, resulting in a volume reduction of up to 96%. Large formats (>A0) are normalized to A3 sheets without loss of detail.
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    Cost reduction: One-time costs start at €0.06 per microsheet or €1,680 (net) per archive box. Compared to digital systems, expenses for electricity, maintenance, migration, and special equipment are eliminated, enabling savings of up to 99% over the storage duration (300 years). External storage costs decrease since the archive can be managed internally.
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    Energy and environmental optimization: As “cold storage,” microsheets require no energy for storage or access, minimizing the CO₂ footprint. The paper is recyclable, contains no rare earth elements or pollutants, and generates no hazardous waste. This promotes sustainability and reduces long-term resource consumption.
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    Further optimizations: The technology protects against cyber risks, saving resources for IT security. Color and high-resolution prints preserve authenticity without additional tools.

archium® microsheets revolutionize archives through their unique concept that increases efficiency and optimizes resources. They offer a forward-looking alternative to purely digital systems with measurable savings in all areas. For institutions with high archiving requirements, they mean not only cost reduction but also increased resilience and sustainability.

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