Washington State University
BUSINESS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL

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Imaging University Records

University departments seeking to implement electronic document imaging systems are to comply with University and state requirements.

An electronic document imaging system is a computer-based configuration of equipment and software that stores machine-readable document images and their associated character-coded index data for on-demand retrieval. Electronic images can be computer generated, or created through document scanning. (WAC 434-663-200)

Departments are to ensure that imaging systems meet requirements of WAC 434-663. These state regulations address quality control, system requirements, and retention, disposition, and access to imaged records.

Records stored in imaging systems are to be managed in accordance with University policies and procedures for the use of University equipment, property, and records. Refer to Chapter 20 (Property) and Chapter 90 (Records).

In addition to the requirements in WAC 434-663, University requirements for imaging systems include the following:

During the planning stage, the implementing department is to contact Information Technology (IT). IT personnel can provide guidance regarding existing imaging resources and license agreements.

The system architecture is to allow flexibility in exporting and importing data to other nonproprietary systems. Systems should consist of hardware and software that conform to nonproprietary standards and should be constructed in open system architecture.

Electronic documents stored in an imaging system are to be in standard image file formats. TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) file format is the preferred standard for documents submitted through a scanning system. Other industry-standard file formats are acceptable, provided complete documentation is maintained.

The indexing values used to retrieve images should be stored in an open relational database.

Imaging systems should use nonproprietary header labels for long-term storage of images. If a proprietary header is used, the system must provide a mechanism to produce images with nonproprietary header labels for long-term storage.

University records retention and disposal requirements apply to imaged records. See 90.01.

Original source documents and imaged copies are subject to the approved retention policy documented on the retention schedule for the department. Typically, the source document is retained until it is imaged and the electronic image is verified, indexed, and copied. Often, the imaged copy becomes the official record and the source documents are shredded or recycled.

To request a retention period for source and imaged documents, department records coordinators are to contact the University Records Officer in the Office of Procedures, Records, and Forms; telephone 335-2005. A retention schedule is established based upon information content, function, and legal requirements.

NOTE: Retention schedules are to be established and approved in advance of imaging system implementation.

Departments must have in place procedures for maintaining and filing source and imaged documents throughout the required and approved retention period.

Departments must have in place procedures for regularly backing up imaged documents and associated indexes. The back up copy is to be available if the record copy becomes inaccessible due to disaster, vandalism, theft, malfunction, or any other cause.

Departments must have procedures for properly eliminating or disposing of imaged records that exceed retention periods. NOTE: Just deleting the pointer in the index is not sufficient. The actual record must be deleted from the media.

Departments are responsible for ensuring the safekeeping of all records, including those identified as "archival" or "potentially archival." Archival documents are retained in accordance with the applicable retention schedule and transferred to Manuscripts, Archives, and Special Collections (MASC) at the end of the retention period. See 90.02.