Wikipedia:Please don't edit the (SPI) archives

Wikipedia is the encyclopedia anybody can edit. A few nooks and crannies are exceptions, however, and the SPI archives are one of those exceptions. If you're used to WP:AfD or WP:AN, or a host of other discussion forums, you'll probably find the archiving process at SPI confusing. At SPI, when a case is closed, it's moved onto a queue for manual review by a clerk. The reviewing clerk checks the case to make sure there's no problems. They're looking to see that the page is properly formatted, that all required blocks have been properly executed, and that appropriate tags have been placed. They also give it an overall read to see if they can spot anything else that needs attention. Once the archiver is satisfied that everything's OK, they move the case text to a /Archive subpage. This ensures that at least two sets of (well-trained) eyes have looked at the case to make sure it's in good shape. Once that quality control step has been done, we want to make sure everything stays in good shape.

Non-clerks, no matter how well-meaning or experienced in other areas, don't have the training needed to edit the archives; the formatting is quirky and various bits of software depend on it being just right. And since the archives are referenced during subsequent investigations, we want to make sure the data is accurate. This is why we ask editors who aren't SPI clerks not to edit the archives. Even to make a minor correction or ask a question. If you do, some clerk will undoubtedly notice and undo your edit. You'll also get a polite request not to do that again. If you ignore that request, the next one might be less polite.

All that being said, we do take WP:ADMINACCT seriously. Not being able to edit the archives doesn't mean you can't ask questions or express concerns. But, the place to do that is on the closing admin's talk page. If it's a more general question about process, WP:SPI/CN is the right place. SPI cases do have talk pages, but those are essentially never used.