Analysis and processing of source materials in the development of an online system presenting information on toponyms

Abstract The article outlines the objectives, methodology, and challenges of digitizing and extending the Etymological Dictionary of Geographical Names of Silesia (SENGŚ). The implemented process uncovered numerous inaccuracies and omissions in the original edition, necessitating corrections and enhancements based on primary sources and original research. Geolocation of toponyms proved essential for identifying errors, duplicate entries, and misattributions. Despite technological advancements, specific geographical names still require field verification or even archaeological investigation, particularly in areas affected by significant landscape transformations or shifts in nomenclature. The authors underscore the value of field interviews and data from governmental registers as complementary sources. They also emphasize the importance of precise terminology and syntactic consistency in formulating dictionary entries.