Archival work constitutes a core domain within document science, functioning as an integrated information system that supports scholarly research across historical, legal, social, economic, and cultural contexts. This study provides a systematic analysis of the evolution of archival work, focusing on its historical development, legal and organizational structures, and its transformation under contemporary technological conditions. The research examines both physical and electronic archival systems, with particular emphasis on digital transformation processes, including the implementation of electronic archives, metadata infrastructures, and advanced analytical technologies. Within this framework, the legal and ethical status of documents is evaluated, highlighting key issues such as authenticity, legal validity, data confidentiality, and institutional accountability. Special attention is given to the Azerbaijani archival system, where the interaction between traditional archival practices and modern digital solutions is analyzed. The study also considers the alignment of national archival structures with international standards and situates these developments within a broader comparative context. The findings indicate that archival work has evolved beyond traditional preservation functions into a multidimensional system that contributes to scientific research, legal processes, and public administration. The integration of digital technologies, international cooperation, and regulatory harmonization significantly enhances the effectiveness and strategic relevance of archival systems.
Bayramov et al. (2026) studied this question.