IFML uses a repeatable digitization workflow designed for consistency, legibility, and long-term reuse. The process prioritizes resolution, color accuracy, and non-destructive handling of botanical material and related forestry resources.
Hardware
Large-format flatbed scanning using the Epson Expression 13000XL for distortion-free capture of fine structure.
Output tiers
Archival TIFF files for research, plus processed access files and supporting derivatives for teaching, outreach, and general use.
Documentation
Standardized metadata, naming conventions, and quality control steps support consistent publication.
Scanning Parameters
- Optical resolution: Minimum of 600 DPI, with capture workflows ranging to 2400 DPI when finer detail is needed.
- Color depth: Up to 48-bit color when available.
- Raw format: Uncompressed TIFF for archival retention.
Scanning Protocol
Download protocol PDF- Pre-scan calibration
Clean the scanner bed, confirm focus, and run a blank test scan. - Sample positioning
Place the specimen flat on the bed and include a ruler or scale reference when appropriate. - Scanner settings
Set optical resolution, disable automatic enhancement, and retain the intended color profile. - Preview and framing
Run a preview scan and adjust placement until the specimen is fully legible. - Full-resolution capture
Save the master file as an uncompressed TIFF with the embedded profile intact. - Quality control
Review sharpness, artifacts, scale visibility, and overall fidelity before moving forward. - Metadata recording
Document species, date, collector, locality, phenological stage, and any relevant specimen notes. - Access copy generation
Create the presentation-friendly PNG derivatives for broader educational use. - File organization
Apply standardized names and package the files for storage and Zenodo publication.
Scale Verification & Morphometrics
Pixels per millimeter: At 1200 DPI, 1200 pixels divided by 25.4 mm per inch equals 47.24 px/mm.
Verification: Measure a known dimension in an image editor and compare it to the expected value. Independent verification is recommended for scientific measurements.
Use cases: Leaf area calculations, sinus depth measurement, vein-angle analysis, petiole length documentation, and related morphometric work.
Archival Storage & Publication
- Validate files
Confirm file integrity, bit depth, and required metadata before upload. - Create metadata package
Prepare descriptive metadata aligned with the publication record. - Upload to Zenodo
Publish the TIFF master, preview assets, and associated record metadata to the IFML community. - Verify DOI assignment
Confirm the record resolves correctly and update the collection tracker.
Best Practices
- Clean the scanner glass before every session and minimize dust during handling.
- Keep original TIFF masters unchanged and perform edits on derivative files.
- Maintain multiple storage copies in addition to the Zenodo publication copy.
- Batch similar specimens together to streamline metadata entry and review.