Distinctions between RM and IM (and other Mms) are largely a factor of scope
of responsibility. If your field of focus is the file room or declaring
(classifying) electronic records into an ERKS, then RM is a label that may
resonate. If your field of focus is ensuring good governance, defensible and
accountable practice, and effective decision making supported by authentic
and reliable information resources, then IM may resonate, or KM--which has
been usurped by technology vendors in my opinion. 

There is, IMHO, a domain specific body of knowledge to be learned and
mastered in the RM world but the value comes in applying that knowledge
within an organizational context. That takes knowledge beyond the domain
specific expertise - the CRM examination aims to point RM professionals in
this direction. But, as with any certification, it is not the ultimate goal,
but a minimum bar and applies only so far as it goes - there are many who
posses the knowledge and expertise who do not choose that certification route.

My preferred lexicon, introduced some time back, includes "recorded
information management" and "knowledge resource development" to recognize
the necessary convergence among people, information, and systems (computer
and otherwise).  Within IM domains (archives, libraries, records, IT) it is
fashionable (for some) to debate which domains fits within another (e.g. is
archives part of RM? or vice versa? or as the SAA cntends, a separately
delineated but complementary discipline?).  In my view, this is less an isse
than ensuring that the appropriate domain knowledge and expertise can be
applied within the appropriate scope of responsibility, within a greater,
informed context.  So, to me, the idea that RM is not IM misses the point of
RM, and the notion that IM is not RM misses (critically the fact that
without RM, IM is not wholly managed at best, and suspect at worst.

Separately, we in Asia are not back on the grid thanks to repairs to
undersea cables. Thanks to those who may use of our alternate communication
means - and for any awaiting responses to messages sent before the Taiwan
earthquake...I'm catching up...thx for your patience!

Cheers,
John

John James O'Brien, CRM, MALT
IRM Strategies
htp://www.irmstrategies.com

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