ISO 15489 SETS THE STANDARDS FOR RECORDS MANAGEMENT

In an effort to help organizations set the groundwork for better management of their records and vital information, the International Standards Organization (ISO) has established ISO 15489: Information and Documentation-Records Management. ISO 15489 provides a global quality benchmark for records management practices. It stresses that for a records management system to be successful, it should be developed in alignment with a company's business goals and objectives.

ISO certification is not a government regulation; rather it is a standard of excellence set forth that provides guidelines to achieve a higher level of accuracy, integrity and efficiency in document management practices. ISO 15489 was drafted and adopted in 2001 by experts from around the world who realized that records management involved more than just filing. It is considered the "gold standard" for records management practices.

Part one of the standard outlines the requirements for structuring a records management system. It addresses all formats and media for the entire life cycle of an organization's records. Part two is a technical report that is designed as a guidance tool to help create an effective recordsmanagement system. It also discusses recommended processes for the implementation of the system to meet the requirements of part one.

The process of implementing ISO certification for records management forces an organization to self-examine its current procedures and move toward improvements in the way they manage their vital records and information. As the ISO principles are constantly evolving and being re-evaluated, so too are an organization's processes and goals. This drive toward constant improvement demonstrates a commitment to maintain the most effective and efficient information management program.

Another beneficial outcome to ISO certification is increased marketability. When an organization commits itself to a higher level of quality and performance in their record management practices, they reduce costs and add value to their customer's experience. ISO compliance will help organizations move towards excellence and long-term business success.