Digital File Organization Process

Electronic File Guidelines

Officiency works with identified staff to develop general electronic record guidelines.

These guidelines will document:

• An overview of the various document locations and how each should be used.
• The accountability and process for maintenance of the electronic file structure including user responsibilities.
• Review best practices and guidelines on document naming conventions.
• Review guidelines on access to records and setting permissions and passwords on files or documents.
• Review guidelines on records retention for the organization including email and communications.  

File Structure Organization

Officiency works with identified staff to develop a revised file structure and outline generally the 1 thru 4 levels of sub-folders.

The file structure is documented and will include specifics on:

• Defining the folder and sub-folder hierarchy structure from the first through fourth level folders.
• Clarifying the types of documents and information that are located in each line of folders.
• Identifying specific document naming conventions for each folder.
• Determining record retention guidelines of files based on government mandates and organizational history (this is done in conjunction with organization's record retention guidelines and policy, if known)
• Identifying which documents need to have files saved in paper format
• Defining permissions with files based on access, privacy and confidentiality.

Once the new file structure is reviewed and approved, then existing documents can be moved into the new file structure.

Migration of Documents

Officiency can assist with migration of documents into the new revised structure. Migration of data can also be done by staff and/or IT departments.

The entire process takes from one to multiple days, depending on the complexity of the file structure, size of the organization, and amount of data.

There are always files that contain unknown documents that might require more research and time to determine use and value. These files will be assigned to team members to review and manage at a later time.

Training for Employees

Training is provided for all personnel to learn the new electronic file structure and guidelines. Objectives include:

• Record management basics and the responsibility of users.
• Review of the new file structure and guidelines.
• Review best practices of managing data, documents and information
  Learn strategies for becoming paperless.
• Assignment of deadline dates to moving, purging and renaming electronic files from personal or local drives (i.e. C or H drives).
• Address staff specific staff questions and issues, as it relates to records management, electronic file structure and managing information.

Follow-up and Accountability

Officiency can provide follow-up services that ensure the electronic record systems designed are working properly and any outstanding action items or issues have been resolved.

Consultants can also work one-on-one with key individuals to help them specifically convert necessary documents to a paperless process.

The follow-up process is to ensure that staff have adopted the new system to managing electronic information and feel comfortable in using the systems and structure provided.