The documentation of cultural heritage is a fundamental first step in the heritage management process. Documentation of conservation and management actions is also vital for proper monitoring and evaluation of such activities. To facilitate students' learning of heritage documentation techniques, UTM established the Heritage Documentation Lab in 2013. The Lab introduces the methods of collecting, processing and presenting detailed information about various types of cultural heritage resources using mainly digital technology. Emphasis is given on using digital technologies in tandem with traditional methods of documentation.
The Lab is equipped with professional quality equipment and computer software and hardware that take advantage of the use of digital technology in the modern heritage management process. It includes powerful Workstations with Computer-aided Design (CAD), 3D modelling, graphic design and video editing software. The Lab has Full Frame DSLR cameras, professional grade lenses and audio recording devices, and light equipment for video and photography. For 3D documentation of heritage structures, the Lab has a 3D laser scanner, which was the first in Macao among all educational institutions. Students studying in the Cultural and Heritage Management programme at IFTM get the opportunity to learn the use of these techniques and apply them in and outside course activities and projects.