Vital records are a specialized type of business record which is essential for the functioning of some part of the business and which cannot easily be replaced.

Examples include deeds, charters, inventory, accounts payable/receivable, and contracts.

The goal of the vital records program is to identify vital records and ensure that a legal copy of each exists in a safe place.

Some of Records Management's vital records initiatives include microfilming of our Board of Trustees Minutes and Purchasing Department contracts. The microfilm copies are stored away from the originals so both will not be lost in the same disaster.

Look around your office and imagine that a fire or burst pipe has resulted in the loss of all your records. Which losses would cause you the most inconvience as you try to resume work? How hard would it be to replace those items? This exercise will help you identify those items you must take special care with.

For more information, contact Bob Smith.