Application of Disruptive Technologies to the Management and Preservation of Records

Abstract

Disruptive technologies are widely used in semi-periphery and core countries such as the United States of America, Australia, Croatia, and China to manage and preserve records. However, the same cannot be said about periphery countries, especially on the African continent. These countries, including South Africa, are struggling with the digitalisation of records, let alone the management of paper-based records. This study, conducted in the public sector in South Africa, explores literature review to critically analyse challenges to archival functions that can be mitigated through the application of artificial intelligence technologies. Findings reveal problems relating to governance in a digital environment, a lack of accountability, the high level of litigation rates, bad audit results, and a lack of or poor service delivery emanating from a breakdown in records systems in South Africa. Both paper-based and digital records management systems in the public sector in South Africa are in a state of disarray. As a result, the preservation of digital records is slowly taking place, which leads to the loss of memory for the entire public sector. It is concluded that the market is ripe for disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing and blockchain in the management and preservation of records in the South African public sector. The study recommends that governmental bodies cautiously consider exploring the possibility of storing their records in a trusted digital repository cloud as an interim solution while observing legal obligations. Other technologies such as blockchain technology can also be adopted to ensure the security of records.