Records Management
We have performed a large number of targeted and technical assistance projects for Federal agencies in the past several years, both large and small.
Consulting Projects
We can also provide assistance through short-term consulting projects that do not involve formal agreements.
Examples include:
- assisting in the development of records management policies and procedures
- providing guidance on disposing of old records
- facilitating transfers of permanent records to the National Archives
- and assisting with the development of retention schedules.
Assistance & Consulting
We offer technical assistance, targeted assistance and other types of consulting.
Targeted Assistance is a new approach to records and information management that's driven by the
specific needs of Federal customers. It's an important part of the National Archives and Records Administration' effort to offer Federal agencies the benefits of focused records and information management aid and expertise.
Targeted Assistance is:
- Customer Driven — You identify your problem or project, and then contact us.
- Problem Solving — Our records analysts will come to your office, consult with you, and offer realistic strategies and solutions for improvement
Targeted Assistance is a partnership between your office and the National Archives. (See sample Memorandum of Understanding.)
We work closely with your staff and provide them with the tools to better manage your agency's records.
Analysts on our staff will:
- come to your office
- address your needs
- answer your questions
- solve your records management problems
You know your business requirements better than anyone else does. Experts at the National Archives and Records Administration know records management. We'll work with you to create a project with a well-defined purpose, tangible products, definite milestones, and a time frame for completion. Your agency must participate actively, provide access to records and knowledgeable staff, clerical assistance as needed, and appropriate facilities. Through strategic partnership we can improve the management of your agency's records, whether electronic or paper.
Types of Targeted Assistance Projects
Targeted assistance projects are designed to help you, the Federal customer, manage your records. Projects may include:
- Electronic Records — Need help managing your e-mail? Having problems locating and using older electronic files? Looking to develop your own - or purchase off-the-shelf - software to manage your information? We advise agencies on standards and best practices for electronic recordkeeping systems. We also provide practical guidance on critical electronic records issues such as system backup and legacy data management.
- Records Schedules — Have questions about how to use your agency records control schedules? Are there records in your office that aren't included in your schedules? We can help train your staff and schedule your records.
- Records Disposition — Are records taking over your office? Do you need more space? Do you know how to store or destroy your records legally? We can help you apply proper disposition practices to your records.
What Help Is Provided?
The type of help we offer depends on your needs. Projects may include:
- Electronic system development
- Imaging and digitization planning
- Tailored training
- Records inventorying and scheduling
- Office file plan development
- And much more....
How much would you pay a consultant to come to your office to help solve your
records management problems, or even just to identify opportunities for improvement?
Imagine paying nothing.
Under Targeted Assistance, this is what you'd pay for the services of Federal records professional. Travel and per diem costs may be required if extended, remote on-site visits are involved.
