TS ISO 30301

TS ISO 30301 addresses the requirements for a management system for records, focusing on how an organization can establish, run and improve records management in a structured way. The subject is not just storage of records, but managing them so they support the organization’s mandate, mission, strategy and goals. The standard also covers the development and implementation of a records policy and objectives, together with information on measuring and monitoring performance.

In practical terms, a management system for records is the organisational framework used to control records throughout their lifecycle, so that they remain reliable evidence of business activity and can be found, accessed and protected when needed. Records are valuable because they support accountability, continuity and informed decision-making. The document explicitly notes that such a system may be established within a single organization or across organizations that share business activities.

How the standard frames conformity

From a general technical perspective, this kind of standard brings together policy, responsibilities, processes and performance review into one management approach. That is important because records management is not only a technical archive function; it also supports governance, operational continuity and the organisation’s ability to demonstrate that it follows its stated records policy. TS ISO 30301 states that conformity with the document may be demonstrated through self-assessment and self-declaration, confirmation of that declaration by an external party, or certification by an external party.

• Helps structure records policy and objectives.
• Provides a framework for measuring and monitoring records management performance.
• Applies to a single organization or to organizations sharing business activities.
• Allows conformity to be demonstrated by self-assessment, self-declaration, third-party confirmation or certification.