None of us, including Judge Friedman, is the font of all wisdom. However, when we overcome denial, some things become pretty clear with respect to E-records. First of all, let's face it... we're addicted to paper... Like alcohol, paper is good for some things. But it's a terrible thing upon which to waste the knowledge and minds of the employees of the taxpayers. Second, by definition, electronic records must be managed with electronic records management systems (ERMSs). Like alcoholics, paperholics can continue to function ... but only a cost to themselves and those around them... Paper is a perfectly good medium for the DISPLAY of information, but it is a lousy medium for the MANAGEMENT of information... Didn't somebody say something about a "government that costs less and works better"? And don't we all truly believe in that concept? Third, our ERMSs should comply with the DoD standards. And, of course, we should strive continually to improve those standards and systems, on a Governmentwide basis (as required by ITMRA) in cooperation with NARA, DoD, NIST, GSA, GPO, and other agencies. However, that does not relieve us of the obligation to do what each of us can do now!

Play auto-running slide show...