These requirements apply to public records in all formats, including records created and/or maintained in electronic format. The complex characteristics of electronic records, and the rapid changes in the hardware and software used to access them, make these requirements even more challenging; as a result, electronic records are typically not as well managed as records in other formats. The massive quantities of electronic records make it even more difficult to manage them effectively. Therefore, it is critical for agencies to establish a program for the management of electronic records that incorporates the program elements necessary to meet public records requirements
