When helping local governments achieve compliance, we commonly receive the questions about which forms to use. The compliance forms differ depending on whether you are non-elected or elected office. Sometimes we receive questions about the difference in elected by the public versus elected by the board in ascertaining the forms. What does the term “elected…
by Erica Rice Data. Information. Record. These terms are thrown around a lot in the information management world, and they are often used interchangeably. However, each of these terms has a distinct definition and purpose in the practice of records management. Let’s look at the definitions of each of these—and how they are related—to make…
Sometimes, the Sunset Commission “sunsets” state agencies. But what does that mean? “In government, ‘Sunset’ reviews regularly assess the need for a state agency or program to exist. In Texas, the Sunset process works by setting an expiration (Sunset) date in law for state agencies. An agency will automatically be abolished on its Sunset date…
(Authors: Maria Freed and Sarah Swanson) ⚠Content Disclaimer The guidance provided below does not constitute legal advice. Instead, it is intended to provide general information as a resource for records management teams. Take a moment to think about the systems your local government or agency uses to manage its electronic records. What would your ideal…
Data is everywhere—when we click, swipe, type, or Skype, data is created and stored into various databases. What happens when that data is breached, identities are stolen, privacy is lost, or loss of property occurs? For public agencies, data breaches can result in loss of confidential or valuable information. What does this have to do…
Are you looking to streamline your microfilm destruction methods? Do you already have a system in place? In any case, you might find these pointers below helpful to incorporate into your organization’s practices. Step 1: Make sure you have procedures in place. Will the destruction be done in-house, or will you hire an outside vendor?…
These days, the word “telecommunication” or, as it’s more commonly referred, “telecommuting” is something everyone is hearing. But what is telecommuting anyway, and how does it apply to records management? Telecommunication means communication over a distance by telephone, cable, or broadcasting. For most people, this means working from home on a desktop or laptop computer.…
On Friday, August 16, over twenty local government entities in Texas were targeted by a coordinated ransomware attack. This incident is the most recent in a year marked by cyberattacks on state and local governments across the country. Several state and federal agencies are investigating and actively working with the impacted Texas entities to help…