The File Plan — a definition

The File Plan, also sometimes known as the "Records Classification Scheme", is the basic structure in Records Management that classifies and groups records together with similar characteristics. International standard ISO 15489 describes the File Plan as an essential component of any Records Management program. Many people consider the File Plan to be the crux of their entire Records Management program. The File Plan classification system is similar to that of the folder or directory structure in a filesystem. It is hierarchical, with the upper-most levels of the hierarchy representing very broad categories and with the lower levels becoming increasingly more specific. The File Plan structure provides a consistent scheme for classifying records that can be applied to any type of record media or format.

Note

Strictly speaking, there is more to the File Plan than just the folder structure and the classification. The File Plan provides a comprehensive outline that...