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In all types of industries and businesses, Records Management Departments control, watch over and maintain millions upon millions of records on a daily basis. For many years, records management involved large collections of data using filing systems and typically physical records. However, as we continue to move forward into an ever-incresing digital era, more and more of this work will continue to transfer from paper files to electronic records as a faster and easier way of managing large quantities of information.

With these rapid changes, the ongoing question is, how will this shift towards more digital records affect the field of Records Management? Listed below are some of the transformations we believe are beginning to occur and will continue at a swift pace over the next few years.

1. Records as we have known them to be will change their meaning and evolve into electronic records as the primary source while paper records will be virtually extinct or minimaly used in the industry.

2. Record Management positions will require a stronger, more intensive IT comprehension, as most of the work will be done digitally.

3. As the majority of files are converted to the cloud through computer applications, less office space will be dedicated to paper files- thus freeing up space in offices around the world.

4. Any remaining paper records will require separate policies for handling, and also will create a sub-sector of specialists who deal with them as the majority of workers in record management will focus electronic systems.

5. Record Management workers may face challenges in the initial changes and adaptations, however in the long run the switch to a digital environment will provide an overall more efficient system.