Understanding and using archaeological topographic surveys - The "error conspiracy"

Surveys of archaeological sites form a basis for management decisions, and through the displaying of spatial relationships they are an interpretative tool. They are commonly re-used for later work, particularly if damage has occurred in the intermediate period rendering features indistinguishable on the ground In these cases, the need for a plan to assist in both the management and interpretation of the site is fundamental. Developments in digital archiving and data management have changed the way in which archaeologists work and hold the potential for the re-use of survey data. However, the re-use of data requires an understanding of the accuracy and applicability of earlier material. This paper highlights the inherent dangers in re-using survey data using the example of an Iron Age site near Doncaster England. The results demonstrate how errors can be perpetuated within the literature and how they continue to be used for the decision-making processes despite this.