Some of the key features of the implementation we propose:
A completely open standard. A non-proprietary, well-documented
format reduces the risk of the data becoming inaccessible as a result of
obsolete technology.
A format capable of being created and understood by humans without
the need for special software (although of course such software
may make the task easier). The use of plain text makes the data
accessible to standard search engines.
Significant details should be abstracted by someone familiar with
the investigation - this is likely to be more efficient and accurate than
relying on third parties to collate relevant details at a later date.
An SSD forms an integral part of a report and so is most usefully
created as the report is written.
The author can decide on the level of detail he/she feels
appropriate for describing a particular site. A rigid, tabular system
requires either many blank fields or the provision of extraneous or
unhelpful information.
A single central repository can be used but is not required -
anyone who wants to can create databases/tools to search and process
the data.
Thus far, relatively few reports have been published on the Web,
so any approach adopted now can be applied consistently.