Rice Research Repository: Recommended file formats

The Rice Research Repository (R-3) accepts many file formats. However, research and experience has shown that some file formats have a higher likelihood of successful long-term preservation than others. File formats with the following characteristics are recommended:

• Open source rather than proprietary software used for creation or access
• Widespread use of format
• No "lossy" or proprietary compression
• No embedded files, programs, or scripts
• No full or partial encryption
• No password protection

The table below, adapted from Duke University Libraries' Recommended File Formats for Digital Preservation, shows probability for full long-term preservation. When possible, select file formats from the "Recommended" column. Formats in the "Medium" column are preferred over those in the "Low" column, but assurance of long-term preservation is not as high as in the "Recommended" column.

Note about PDFs: PDF is a good choice for preservation, with PDF/A being the best option. For maximum preservation and accessibility, do not embed media files in the PDF or encrypt or lock the file. Rice's Digital Accessibility office maintains a list of resources for creating/converting accessible PDFs.