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| Are Your Information Governance Policies Still Based On This? |
Since 2007, in spite of my best efforts, I have watched as
organizations lost control of their electronic data and struggled to implement
classification systems and other good information governance protocols. And yet, it might not be entirely their fault. I routinely see advertisements from
"expert" consulting groups that offer a “solution” for records and information management
based on the ancient approach of retention policies and schedules. This is like having a modern steel and glass
building and hiring a carpenter with wood and nails to help you
expand. The usual advice starts with
“the foundation” that includes a records plan or policy and then attempts to expand it to cover
electronically stored information (ESI). Why? Is it because existing records programs have
been performing so well? I doubt it. Ask employees at most organizations about the adequacy of their current records policy and you will receive the same response, “what
records policy?” So, if it really was not
working for paper, why would consultants suggest that you just update it to handle ESI? Classification and retention programs that achieved barely adequate to horrendous results historically with paper, are not going to work with your
expanding email, instant messaging, social media, and new media applications. How about an approach that will work?
