Records may be revised to correct errors.

Purpose

This principle allows records to improve over time while keeping faith with what originally occurred.

Principle

Records may be revised to correct errors.

Meaning

When inaccuracies, omissions, or technical problems are identified, revisions are permitted so the record more faithfully represents reality. Correction is an act of responsibility, not instability.

The goal is closer alignment with truth.

What Revision Is For

• Fixing factual mistakes.
• Restoring missing material.
• Clarifying ambiguity.
• Updating attribution.
• Improving technical quality without changing meaning.

What Revision Is Not For

• Rewriting history.
• Adjusting content to fit preference.
• Removing uncomfortable elements.
• Expanding authority beyond what was recognized.

Why This Matters

• Maintains credibility across generations.
• Demonstrates openness.
• Prevents small mistakes from becoming permanent.
• Encourages participation in improvement.

Examples

• Updating transcript after audio review.
• Correcting date or location.
• Adding note that wording was uncertain.
• Repairing damaged or incomplete data.

Revision and Transparency

Changes should remain visible so that readers can understand what was modified and why.

Risks if Misused

• Alteration may become manipulation.
• Trust in archives may weaken.
• Confusion about original events may grow.

Safeguards

• Preserve earlier versions.
• Document who made change and when.
• Limit revision to demonstrable error.
• Seek lawful guidance where meaning is affected.

Cross-references

• Errors Must Be Identified and Corrected
• Version History Supports Transparency
• Accuracy and Restraint Preserve Integrity
• Witnessing Does Not Alter Content
• Method Matters as Much as Content

Notes

Future development may include revision approval processes.