What is FADGI?

FADGI is a set of technical guidelines developed by U.S. federal agencies to standardize digital imaging quality, metadata, and preservation practices. These guidelines are widely adopted by institutions such as the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the Library of Congress, and numerous state and municipal agencies. FADGI ratings range from 1-star (basic) to 4-star (archival/master-quality).

What Is FADGI and Why Does It Matter for Document Scanning?

FADGI is a federally developed framework of technical standards designed to ensure consistency in digital imaging quality, metadata structure, and preservation practices. Originally established by U.S. federal agencies, these guidelines are now widely adopted by institutions such as the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the Library of Congress, and various state and local government entities. FADGI uses a star rating system ranging from 1-star (basic quality) to 4-star (archival/master-level quality)—to assess and benchmark digital imaging performance. FADGI compliance matters because it ensures scanned images are accurate, consistent, and usable for long-term access, digital preservation, or legal reference. Poor-quality scans that don’t meet these standards can result in information loss, failed audits, or rework down the line. For public agencies, universities, libraries, museums, and legal organizations, following FADGI guidelines is no longer optional—it’s an expectation.

How TierFive Delivers FADGI-Compliant Scanning Services

TierFive’s FADGI compliance package includes scanning workflows, production class equipment, and quality assurance processes are configured to meet or exceed FADGI 3-star and 4-star image quality levels, depending on the client’s preservation or access requirements. TierFive also maintains HIPAA and SOC2 certifications as well as ISO 27001 and our staff is both PBSA and E-Verify background verified to best comply with the HIPAA, GDPR, FERPA, and DOL ERISA frameworks under which many of our healthcare, finance, education, legal, government, and insurance clients face strict regulatory and operational requirements for handling scanned records. We use calibrated production scanners, target-based testing, and color management tools that conform to FADGI’s objective scoring metrics, including:

• Spatial resolution

• Tonal response

• Color accuracy

• Noise levels

• Compression integrity

Our imaging technicians are trained in FADGI-compliant capture workflows, including the use of ISO 19264 targets and proper lighting, file formats (TIFF, PDF/A, JPEG2000), and metadata structures. We perform regular image quality testing, track capture conditions, and deliver full QA documentation to support compliance, audits, and digital preservation initiatives.

Why FADGI Compliance Is Critical for Archives, Legal Records, and Government Digitization

For organizations digitizing collections of historical significance, evidentiary value, or long-term public record, FADGI compliance ensures your scanned output meets the highest standards of fidelity and permanence. It’s especially relevant when:

• Scanned files are submitted to government repositories (e.g., NARA)

• Agencies follow 36 CFR Part 1236 for electronic records

• Legal records must be admissible and fully reproducible

• Cultural institutions receive federal grants requiring quality benchmarks

TierFive understands that FADGI compliance isn’t just about image quality—it’s about trust, transparency, and technical accountability. We help agencies and institutions maintain credibility and ensure that scanned documents can stand the test of time—digitally and legally.

Why It Matters for Government Contractors, Regulated Employers, and HR Leaders

If your organization is a federal contractor, operates under state E-Verify mandates, or handles sensitive data subject to I-9, HIPAA, FERPA, FCRA, or SOX, your vendor’s workforce matters. TierFive’s E-Verified personnel not only meet legal eligibility standards—they’re also trained in secure data handling, confidentiality, and compliance protocol. This gives HR leaders, compliance officers, and procurement teams confidence that scanned records—from I-9 forms to medical documentation and payroll files—are handled legally, ethically, and in accordance with your internal vendor risk management standards. Choosing TierFive means choosing a secure partner whose staff is as trustworthy as your own.

Key Benefits of TierFive’s FADGI-Compliant Scanning Services

Working with TierFive means your documents are digitized with federal-grade precision, enabling archival quality and compliance confidence. Our FADGI-aligned workflows reduce risk of image rejection, support long-term digital preservation strategies, and ensure scanned materials are accurate, accessible, and defensible—even decades from now.

Contact TierFive today to learn more about how our FADGI compliant imaging process we can help your archival organization reduce overhead costs securely and accurately digitize time sensitive records with the peace of mind knowing that you have the right partner with the right team.