What is a Record?

I've discussed record management a lot on the document storage blog. Today I'd like to focus on what a record actually is, and to narrow it down to a variety of specific examples. All of the types of documents and information listed below are considered to be "records" within the document management industry. When hiring a facility to handle your businesses storage and cataloguing, determine which of these apply to your company, and organize them in order of priority.

1. Physical paper and files, including: memos, contracts, marketing materials and reports

2. Electronic messages like emails, instant messages and attachments

3. Content on your website

4. Information on PDA's, flash drives, desktops, laptops and servers

5. Information catalogued in company databases