Demystifying AI: Challenges and Solutions for Records and Information Managers

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are no longer buzzwords. As AI and ML permeate IT transformation efforts, the hype has diminished but the expectations continue to rise. AI can help improve the organization’s core functions—including records and information management, but it is not always the right choice for every situation. At times simple automation tools and workflows may be useful, but other situations may call for AI and ML solutions. The objective of this presentation is to discuss some of the challenges facing records and information managers today and to provide examples of how existing AI-enabled software and services can assist in capturing, managing, and preserving digital content. This presentation draws upon research conducted as part of InterPARES Trust AI and supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

Speaker: Dr. Patricia Franks, PhD, CA, CRM, IGP, CIGO, FAI

Dr. Franks teaches Enterprise Content Management and Digital Preservation at San José State University. She is a Certified Archivist, Certified Records Manager, Information Governance Professional, and Certified Information Governance Officer. She is a member of ARMA International’s Company of Fellows, the CIGO Association Board of Directors, and Preservica’s Digital Preservation Sustainability Council. She is a president of the National Association of Government Archivists and Records Administrators (NAGARA, author of Records and Information Management (3rd edition soon to be released), and editor or co-editor of numerous research publications including The Handbook of Archival Practice. Her research interests lie in emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence and blockchain technology, and their impact on records management and information governance.