Choose sources and framing

Choose a view because it helps visitors examine the question in that step. A closer view is useful when it reveals evidence; an overview is useful when the relationship between details matters.

Keep a source register

For each object, record its title, creator when known, date or period, holding institution, catalogue address and credit. Keep the IIIF manifest address separately from the catalogue page: the former supplies the image; the latter gives readers its context.

Note what you can publish and any uncertainties in attribution or interpretation. For your own material, keep the original file as well as the copy prepared for the exhibition.

Pair each step with a view

Add three notes to each question in your plan:

Which object, page or time segment will visitors see?
Which detail should they notice?
What does the short answer help them understand about it?

You can return to the same object several times. Changing the framing can build an argument without introducing a new source at every step. Use a wider view when moving between distant details so visitors can understand their relationship.

Plan images, documents and recordings

For a multi-page document, choose the page before choosing the framing. For video or audio, identify a segment and write down the proposed start and end. Check whether the segment needs a transcript or other explanation.

The khipu walkthrough demonstrates the full image workflow: add the manifest, select that khipu in a story step, frame the khipu and capture the position. The source shown in the framing step must match the object you added.

Write the description alongside the interpretation

Describe the relevant visible or audible details in the step’s alternative text or accompanying prose. Do not rely on “look here” or colour alone to identify the evidence.

Test the view at a smaller window size. A tiny label that you can read on your own monitor may need a closer view, a transcription or an explanation in text.

Your result: a source register and a proposed view or segment for every step. Next, decide what belongs in panels and the glossary.