What is the first step in the process of record management?

Determining whether a record is a public record is indeed the first step in the process of record management because it establishes the legal framework for the management and access to that record. In New Jersey, the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) defines what qualifies as a public record, which includes any document that is made, maintained, or kept on file in the course of official business. This classification dictates how the record is to be treated, including how long it must be retained and who may access it.

Once it has been established that a record is public, it can then be subjected to further evaluation steps such as inventorying, analyzing, and comparing to a retention schedule. This initial determination sets the stage for all subsequent actions in the records management process, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and policies. Identifying whether a record is public is crucial in promoting transparency and accountability within government operations.