Ref: CF/NYH/IRM/RAM/1997-290
26 Aug 1997
	Main Goal of the Records and Archive Management Unit
 	and seven sub-goals 

Main Goal:	UNICEF Records and Archives Management :
Support  identification, protection and continued access to all UNICEF Records and Archives irrespective of the media, method, location or time of: creation; transmittal; or storage.

RAM Sub-Goals:

1.	Encourage accurate and unique identification and labeling of groups of records [boxes, series or folders] and where warranted registering of specific items.

2.	Develop charts and decision aids for users, records administrators or archive staff to make preliminary “appraisal value” recommendations and to expedite decisions on short or long term retention; transfer to alternate storage or approved disposal. The process and tools developed should preferably be based on criteria applicable to groups of records with exceptions noted.

3.	Support “reuse” of UNICEF information by revising procedures or recommending better tools to make UNICEF listed records more accessible to internal staff, authorized external researchers, and where appropriate, the general public.

4.	Update instructions and monitor training of staff in matters related to records and archive management, including: labeling, grouping, protecting and transferring records. Monitor the correct transfer of records and general adherence to approved standards of maintenance of storage facilities or backup areas and devices. 

5.	Identify the work unit responsible for issuing certain high priority or “essential” UNICEF document or record series. Monitor the collection of items and production of accurate indexes with relevant item “meta data” descriptions. In certain cases transfer older indexes to more usable format.

6.	Oversee the transfer of certain essential or historical record or document series to long term preservation or greater accessible alternate media of storage. [e.g microfiche and digital representation for E/ICEF “Executive Board” and CF/EXD “Executive Directive Series”

7.	Work closely with the UNOs and international community to provide UNICEF with the benefit of the most up to date professional information and advice on recommended policies, procedures, services, technology or facilities standards for archives, records and items. Share all relevant information with UNICEF colleagues in related work areas of information technology, management or service provision. Alert senior managers of potential opportunities or dangers associated with new or proposed procedures or technologies.

Note: For 19 Archives and Records service areas in UN Community    See UN/CS/WG/ARM/1997-001 Annex 2.