From Discovery to Preservation of Metal-Detected Artefacts: alternative routes to one destination

This paper explores the application of Business Process Management (BPM) principles and Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) in the context of processing metal-detected artefacts and related information. It focuses on six European case studies, Estonia, Finland, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Sweden, representing a range of regulatory frameworks and opportunities for private individuals to use metal detectors. The study proposes a conceptual typology for comparing different models of regulation and cooperation in contexts where private metal detecting is allowed, using two core dimensions: the degree of centralisation and the degree of digital integration. Analysis of the constructed BPMN models reveals significant variation in process complexity, institutional responsibilities and stakeholder involvement, reflecting broader national legal and administrative contexts. These findings are complemented by an evaluation of publicly available online information, which highlights differences in the accessibility and clarity of guidance provided to hobbyist detectorists. The main conclusion of the study is that no single system is universally optimal; rather, it is crucial to identify context-specific opportunities for the lawful use of metal detectors and the collection and preservation of related information, despite the constraints imposed by limited resources and restrictive legal frameworks. The results will hopefully provide valuable insights for countries seeking to develop or reform their approaches to metal detecting, and demonstrate how process modelling can support more effective, inclusive and sustainable heritage management and use.