11th November 2005, 12:48 PM
Quote:quote:However, for the practical user of (for instance) a trial trenching report, it is better for that detailed description to be separated from the discussion and interpretation - whether that means putting it in a separate chapter or in an appendix. I'm probably closer to Eggy on this aspect
Separation of the descriptive and interpretive parts is done as a matter of course. (It is specified in the brief for one region in which I work)
In answer to the question of who the report is intended for I consider it to be the curator. I have had curators request that info is not hidden away in the appendices, but is integrated in the text, as it is then easier to judge whether the archaeology was dealt with properly. Of secondary importance is the readability and interest to the developer and other parties. I try to satisfy both, but the curator gets precedence. If the descriptive parts are boring to the layperson they can ignore them and skip to the discussion and conclusions.