Longevity in NIME research: a case study using time-based media art preservation models

This paper presents the reactivation of Soundrise, an interactive multimedia application for deaf children, as a case study to demonstrate the application of time-based media art preservation and reactivation strategies in NIMEs. Drawing upon the Multilevel Dynamic Preservation (MDP) model and the Digital Preservation Object (DPO), structured frameworks designed to comprehensively document time-based media art across different levels of information and iterative processes, this article introduces a novel decision-making process for reactivating NIMEs, outlined in five steps: Collection, Assessment, (re)Design, Implementation, and Archiving. Through an exploration of the Soundrise reactivation, the article elaborates on each step of the proposed reactivation process, illustrating the application of the DPO and MDP model to ensure the preservation of the application. From the analysis of the previous iterations of the application, we also provide design reflections on obsolescence and longevity. By aligning our work with recent NIME literature on documentation and reuse, we aim to offer insights on how to preserve, reuse, or maintain and document research.