Records Management Guidance for Agencies Implementing Electronic SignatureTechnologies

摘要

The Government Paperwork Elimination Act (GPEA, P. L. 105-277) requires that,when practicable, Federal agencies use electronic forms, electronic filing, and electronic signatures to conduct official business with the public by 2003. In doing this, agencies will create records with business, legal and, in some cases, historical value. This guidance focuses on records management issues involving records that have been created using electronic signature technology. It supplements the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance for agencies implementing the GPEA, as well as other National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) guidance. A sound records management program is an integral part of an agency's standard business operations. Agencies must consider records management requirements when implementing the GPEA, or whenever they design or augment an electronic information system. This guidance is directed both toward information technology (IT) specialists who establish electronic signature systems and who may not be familiar with the records management implications, and toward agency records management personnel. Good IT practices complement or parallel good records management practices.