Classification: One for Consideration

We classify things everyday of our lives. These could be cars, clothes, and more. We need to classify information as well, not just for the sake of storage but to maximize findability and gain consistency. The question has been raised as to what the best approach is in determining an overall scheme.

Typically, there are three common approaches to this question. We can classify information based on functional, subjective or organizational criteria. If we take the approach using function, it is easier to establish commonality and consistency across the enterprise as function is likely similar in all regions with the caveat that there may be some adjustment needed for regulatory compliance.

In short, the need to for a classification scheme and structure is real. The approach should be consistent, and agreed upon throughout the enterprise in a way that your users will understand, and is more likely to sustain and adapt to the inevitable, change.

Bob Larrivee - AIIM