Accurate, efficient and clear recording is a key aim of archaeological field
studies, but one not always achieved. Errors occur and information is not
always properly recorded. Left unresolved, these errors create confusion,
delay analysis and result in the loss of data, thereby causing
misinterpretation of the past. To mitigate these outcomes, quick response
(QR) codes were used to record the rock art of Telperion Shelter in
Mpumalanga Province, eastern South Africa. The QR codes were used to store
important contextual information. This increased the rate of field
recording, reduced the amount of field errors, provided a cost effective
alternative to conventional field records and enhanced data presentation.
Such a tool is useful to archaeologists working in the field, and for those
presenting heritage-based information to a specialist, student or amateur
audience in a variety of formats, including scientific publications. We
demonstrate the tool's potential by presenting an overview and critique of
our use of QR codes at Telperion Shelter.