Platform

Omeka: An easy-to-use Web Publishing Platform

September 11 Digital Archive: Sustaining the Historical Memory of 9/11

When the September 11 Digital Archive was created in 2002, it pre-dated content management systems. As a result, the platform that the Arhcive was operating on was unique and prone to the constant need of being updated. Important in creating digital archives and repositories is their functionality and usability. This means that a stable platform is needed. Omeka provided just that.

In 2007, CHNM created Omeka, a content management system focused on the item. It allows for the creation of collections and exhibits to showcase items from archives, libraries, museums and more. The creation of Omeka and especially its Contribution plugin, can be seen as a product of prior projects at the Center. Most specifically the September 11 Digital Archive and other digital memory banks. Omeka now provides an easy to use platform that can be utlized in response to an event or as a gateway to collecting histories from a large group of individuals.

In 2011, the September 11 Digital Archive was moved from its pre-CMS platform onto Omeka. This allows the Archive to be easily worked with and managed and to be constatnly up to date with new and emerging technologies.