National Archives and Records Administration Releases Digital Preservation Guidance

Of interest to local and state agencies as we grapple with the long term management of electronic records in various formats, The National Archives and Records Administration is releasing its Digital Preservation Framework, following the release of drafts for public comment in September 2019, which consists of NARA’s approach to determining risks faced by electronic record files and plans for preserving different types of file formats. According to Leslie Johnston, NARA’s Director of Digital Preservation, “The framework is a set of documents that describe how we identify risks to digital files and prioritize them for action, identify the essential preservation characteristics for 16 different categories of electronic records, and plan for the preservation of over 500 file formats. The framework documents the National Archives’ current capabilities and practices, which will evolve over time.”

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National Archives and Records Administration Release of Universal Electronic Records Management Requirements, Version 2

In April, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) released Universal Electronic Records Management Requirements, Version 2. This update includes a revised abstract, the addition of lifecycle requirements, a new transfer format requirements calendar and a glossary. Because of the increase in teleworking, virtual meetings and other online events, a commitment to compliance and best practices in ERM is more vital than ever. This resource can also provide a foundation of requirements for electronic management systems and software.

Records Management Storage Considerations

While many of you are working remotely, you may have opportunities to start reviewing more of your electronic records storage to see what meets retention or could be better managed per your records management policies. The Blog for the Society of American Archivists Records Management section released blog posts reviewing considerations and costs of electronic and paper storage. The blog includes 1-page brochures that can be used as references, in addition to an analysis of storage from cost-savings and best practices perspectives. Check it out here:  https://saarmrt.wordpress.com/tag/storage/