Software formats become obsolete rapidly, meaning a proprietary file saved today might be unreadable in 15 years.
Mandating open archival formats like PDF/A for your permanent records ensures long-term preservation and accessibility independent of the original software.
- Are you currently archiving finalized reports in editable Word formats that might lose their formatting in future updates?
Action Item: Update your procedures to require PDF/A format for all records designated for permanent or long-term retention.