PeterK writes "that being said standards do not stifle innovation they provide a common grounds from which one can compare two or more operations, processes whatever." And I agree totally with that. My point was that I do not believe more manditory and legislated rules are necessary. That does stifle innovation. Good records management practices should always be in place. And absolutely the ability to point to published ISO standards or other materials is an asset. I just reviewed the proposed NARA appraisal process for R&D project records. I found it very well done with real-world considerations. I am probably completely out of sync with the "real world." Sharon Sharon Burnett Seattle Washington USA "Hey, I'm not a lawyer and I do not play one on TV. The opinions herein expressed are mine and mine alone. Do not forward or cross post this message without my express permission." List archives at http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/recmgmt-l.html Contact [log in to unmask] for assistance