(A) Concept schema for interconnected object histories (example). (B) Corresponding abstract concept schema of sequences of processes (triangles) and objects in particular states (circles) before and after processes. Processes give rise to new objects, object states and data items about objects and processes. Processes in the context of collection management will usually consist of separable sub-processes (e.g., different steps in a preservation protocol). Objects can be an aggregate of other objects (e.g., a lot of biological specimens and the preparation container as a composite object originating from a preparation process).