Information Lifecycle

Information Lifecycle is a stage through which every (written or computerized) record goes through from its creation to its final archiving or destruction. These stages may include change of format or recording media for easier access or more secure storage.

Information Life Cycle Stages

• 1. Creation: When information and records are produced in a wide variety of formats using different equipment and technologies.
• 2. Use: When information and records are transmitted to those who need them and, upon receipt, are used in the conduct of business.
• 3. Maintenance: When information and records are filed or stored according to a logical scheme to permit subsequent retrieval, housed in some type of storage device, and protected and maintained so as to safeguard the integrity of the information. During this stage, the information is active; it is frequently referred to and is thus usually stored close to its users.
• 4. Retention: When information and records decline in value, become inactive, and are then removed from active storage in prime office space, or are transferred to the university records center for the duration of their retention life.
• 5. Disposition: When information and records reach the end of their retention and have no further legal, fiscal, or administrative value they are:
  • (1) safely destroyed or
  • (2) preserved permanently in an archive for on-going historical reference or research purposes.

See Also

• Information Life Cycle Management

Further Reading

Does information every die? ltu.se