Purpose: To examine the reasons behind, and issues involved in digitisation projects at archival repositories. Design/methodology/approach: The paper uses practical examples from the University of Dundee Archive Services to consider why archivists devote time and resources to digitising collections and to mounting digital images online. Advantages to collections, services and users are considered in the context of the archival mission and user expectations. Findings: Despite the need to divert existing resources or to attract new ones, digitisation is becoming a core activity in many archives. Originality/value: The paper should be of value to information professionals interested in the use of new technology by the archival profession. Many of the issues raised are cross-sectoral and not just of interest to the archival world but to anyone with a role in preserving and using records.