FAQs

Answers to common queries about how you can get the most out of Decompanion.
What is Decompanion?

Decompanion is an online platform designed for researchers, forensic experts, and students interested in taphonomy—the study of postmortem processes and their impact on human remains. It facilitates collaboration, data sharing, and knowledge exchange within the forensic community.

To contribute data, follow these steps: Register or log in to your Decompanion account.

  • Navigate to the “Contribute” tab.
  • Fill out the required fields (e.g., location, date, context).
  • Upload or email relevant files (e.g., images, reports).
  • Provide any additional details about the data.

Decompanion welcomes various types of data related to taphonomy:

  • Field Observations: Descriptions of decomposition stages, scavenger activity, and environmental conditions.
  • Experimental Studies: Results from controlled experiments (e.g., decomposition rates, insect colonisation).
  • Case Reports: Real-world forensic cases with relevant taphonomic information.

You can collaborate with other researchers by:

  • Joining the discussion forums or groups related to specific taphonomic topics.
  • Connecting with fellow researchers through user profiles.
  • Sharing insights, asking questions, and engaging in meaningful conversations.

Follow these guidelines:

  • Standardise: Collect data systematically using consistent protocols.
  • Document Context: Record contextual information (e.g., burial environment, weather conditions).
  • Ethical Considerations: Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines when working with human and/or animal remains.

Explore visualisations such as maps, charts, and graphs:

  • Look for patterns, trends, and anomalies.
  • Consider the context (geographical location, time of year) when interpreting results.

For technical issues, account assistance, or general inquiries, we’re here to help.

Reach out to our support team via email: support@decompanion.com or use the contact form below.

Stay tuned! We’re continually trying to improve the platform based on user feedback. You can expect new features, research updates, and enhanced collaboration tools.

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