Sorting out the standards: What every records and information professional should know

This article provides an overview of standards and the use of standards as an essential tool of records and information management (RIM) practice. The use of standards is widespread, an accepted mechanism to promote a common understanding between individuals and businesses in both private and business activities in all aspects of life. "Standards generally go unnoticed. They are mostly quiet, unseen forces, such as specifications, regulations and protocols, that ensure that things work properly, interactively, and responsibly" (Office of Technology Assessment, Congress, 1992). Standards today are big business with over half a million published worldwide through over 1,000 recognized standards organizations. The use of standards in records management is not something new ushered in by the advent of ISO 15489. They have long been a mechanism used by proficient and professional records managers for determining, establishing and improving records management practice. The key is to make the most of them!