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The use of information engineering as a framework for analyzing records in electronic form

University of British Columbia

This thesis examines an approach and a methodology used by information technology professionals to develop information systems. Information engineering is a methodology for developing information systems following a specific process. It does not set out to create or manage records, yet it does have significance to archivists as a framework for analyzing information and records in electronic form. The framework that information engineering extends to archivists is one that links administrative goals and business functions to individual activities and acts. The analysis of system documentation from an actual development project reveals how these relationships are created and maintained. It also describes and presents the lexicon and graphic representations of information management as it follows a particular action through the phases of development. Finally, it reveals the fundamental difference between traditional paper records and data in electronic form. The separation of content from structure is a result of the demands of database technology for storage and retrieval, and is a significant issue to be faced in developing methods for the management and preservation of electronic records. The analysis also brings to light the importance of possessing this knowledge before establishing appraisal or description approaches or electronic record management program strategies. The study concludes that information engineering provides a useful framework for archivists in the analysis of information and records in electronic form, and that this understanding is essential to the evolution of archival knowledge and the responsibility of archivists to ensure the reliability, authenticity, availability and integrity of records in an electronic environment.

Thesis/Dissertation

application/pdf

2009-01-14

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http://hdl.handle.net/2429/3635

Archival Studies

University of British Columbia

UBCV

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