IMST Records Management

Question 1

What is a 'records retention schedule' in records management?

Accepted Answer

A policy document specifying how long different types of records must be kept before destruction or permanent archiving

Answer

A retention schedule is a records management tool that lists record series, their retention periods, and final disposition actions (destroy, archive, transfer).

Question 2

Under US federal records law, what agency oversees records management for executive branch agencies?

Accepted Answer

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)

Answer

NARA sets records management standards and guidance for US federal agencies and serves as the official repository for permanently valuable federal records.

Question 3

What is the 'records lifecycle'?

Accepted Answer

The stages a record passes through from creation to final disposition (archive or destruction)

Answer

The records lifecycle encompasses creation or receipt, active use, inactive storage, and final disposition—either permanent preservation or authorized destruction.

Question 4

What does 'vital records' refer to in a records management context?

Accepted Answer

Records essential for an organization to resume operations after a disaster

Answer

Vital records are those without which an organization cannot resume its critical functions following a disaster, such as financial records, contracts, and insurance policies.

Question 5

Which international standard provides guidance on records management?

Accepted Answer

ISO 15489

Answer

ISO 15489 is the international standard for records management, providing guidance on policy, responsibilities, processes, and systems for managing records.

IMST - Information Management Specialist Test Practice Test

IMST - Information Management Specialist Test Practice Test

IMST Records Management