Staying Ahead of the Curve — The Latest Trends in Records and Information Management

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With tax season coming to an end, the topic of records and information management is on everyone's mind— both personally and professionally. While you’re gathering tax documents, the need to stay up to date on proper records and information management (RIM) practices likely becomes more apparent the longer you must search for them.

The RIM industry is continually evolving, with new advancements emerging at a rapid pace. As technology continues to progress, it's no surprise that the industry is undergoing significant transformation.

So, what are the latest trends and innovations driving the evolution of the records management industry? Keep reading to find out!

1. Digital Transformation

The most significant trend is the prioritization being placed on digital transfomation . Organizations are increasingly moving towards paperless environments and relying on electronic records. This shift has led to the development of new digital tools, such as electronic document management systems (EDMS) and cloud-based storage solutions. These tools are designed to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

2. Automation

Automation is another records management trend that’s transforming the industry. Organizations are using automation tools to streamline their processes and reduce the amount of manual labor required. For example, robotic process automation (RPA) can automate repetitive tasks, such as data entry and file organization. This helps to save time and reduce errors.

3. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also making its way into the RIM industry. AI tools analyze large amounts of data, identify patterns, and provide insights that help organizations make informed decisions. For example, AI-powered software can help organizations identify duplicate records, classify documents, and automate record retention and disposition schedules. Similarly to automation, the use of AI helps to streamline processes and cut back on manual tasks.

4. Cybersecurity

As organizations move towards digital transformation, cybersecurity has become an increasingly important issue that records managers and information governance professionals must be aware of. The increasing use of cloud-based storage solutions and electronic records has led to new security challenges. Organizations must ensure that their records management systems are secure, and that sensitive information is protected from cyber threats.

5. Data Privacy

Data privacy is another area of concern in the RIM industry. As organizations collect and store more data, they must ensure they’re complying with data privacy regulations, such as GDPR and CPRA . It’s crucial for organizations to develop a compliant privacy program that can adapt to these current privacy laws as well as future legislation. Having clear policies and procedures in place enables organizations to protect personal information and prevent data breaches.

6. Remote Work

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend toward remote work, and this has had a significant impact on the records and information management industry. Organizations must now find ways to manage and secure records in a remote environment , as well as ensure documents are accessible from anywhere. This has led to the development of new tools and technologies, such as virtual private networks (VPNs) and remote access software.

Conclusion

The RIM industry is undergoing significant changes that impact all of us in some way, and organizations must adapt to the changing landscape to stay competitive. The six records management trends we explored - digital transformation, automation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data privacy, and remote work - are transforming the way records and information are managed, stored, and protected. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to stay up to date with the latest trends and innovations to ensure effective management of records and information.

To learn more about the top trends and challenges RIM professionals must be aware of, watch our webinar, Navigating the Top Challenges in Records and Information Management .

In it, a panel of experts review the results from Access’ annual State of the RIM Industry survey and provide valuable insights for managing your organization's information assets.