What is the primary purpose for maintaining records?

The primary purpose for maintaining records is to ensure needed information is available for decision makers. This focus emphasizes that records management is crucial in providing the right information at the right time to support effective decision-making processes. Whether in a military or civilian context, decision makers rely on accurate and timely records to guide their strategies, inform policy decisions, and enhance operational effectiveness.

While maintaining historical accounts and fulfilling legal requirements are important aspects of records management, the ultimate goal remains to support the users of records, enabling them to access and utilize information effectively for informed decision-making. Reducing the need for digital storage is more of a byproduct of effective records management rather than its primary purpose.