This historical project is looking at the development of research museums in early twentieth century. So, the technology was all analog. They were essentially building a database, but they had to figure out how to store this data about flora and fauna through technologies of preserving the actual remains of the animals and plants. Grinnell also needed detailed descriptions of the habitat in which the specimens were living at the time they were captured. Otherwise he would not be able to conduct his analysis of the impact of environment on evolution. Thus data negligence, loss, and destruction was a huge obstacle to be overcome through discipline and through technologies of standardization. The standardized methods of data collection, including the stock forms/templates to be filled out, were crucial to ensuring the quality of the data collected. The technology of money was also necessary to enlist the help of trappers, creating the opportunity for market-like exchanges.
