Evaluating the National University of Lesotho’s Records Management practices with the ISO 15489

Abstract

Background: Universities create different types, categories and classes of records during their main activities which stem from learning, teaching, research and community engagement. The information contained in the records is used in the daily activities of an institution, therefore, they need to be arranged systematically to facilitate easy access and avoid loss of misfiling or damage.

Objectives: This article aims to evaluate the National University of Lesotho’s (NUL) Records Management practices in alignment with the ISO 15489 standard and to further make recommendations based on their practices.

Method: A qualitative research method using a process evaluation approach was adopted with the employment of interview schedules. Data were analysed through descriptive content analysis with the additional use of thematic analysis.

Results: The findings of this study indicate that most of the Records Management practices of NUL are neither standardised nor aligned to the records management ISO 15489 standard. The findings show that the NUL records-keeping staff mostly apply their knowledge and experience when performing their record-keeping functions.

Conclusion: The research assessed only some of the determinants of Records Management in a relatively small sample in the NUL. An obvious limitation of the study is that it utilised a sample of employees of NUL, and the findings of this study cannot be generalised beyond the sample that took part in the study.

Contribution: This study highlights the significance of aligning all Records Management practices with the ISO 15489 Standard.