Training on the DIRKS Methodology for Modern Records Management and Compliance

Modern organizations face increasing challenges in managing large volumes of records across physical and digital environments while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements. Without a structured framework, records systems can become inconsistent, inefficient, and difficult to govern. The DIRKS Methodology for Modern Records Management and Compliance equips professionals with a systematic approach to designing and implementing effective recordkeeping systems that support organizational accountability and regulatory compliance.

This course focuses on the DIRKS Methodology, a widely recognized framework used by organizations to develop structured records management programs. Participants will learn how to analyze organizational functions, identify recordkeeping requirements, and design systems that ensure reliable record creation, classification, retention, and access.

The training walks participants through each stage of the DIRKS methodology—from preliminary investigation and business activity analysis to the design, implementation, and ongoing monitoring of recordkeeping systems. Participants will gain insights into aligning records management strategies with organizational governance frameworks, compliance obligations, and operational needs.

Key topics include records appraisal, metadata development, classification structures, retention scheduling, risk management, and governance frameworks for recordkeeping systems. The course also explores how modern technologies and digital records platforms can be integrated into DIRKS-based records management programs.

Through case studies, practical exercises, and interactive discussions, participants will apply the DIRKS methodology to real-world scenarios and develop actionable strategies for improving recordkeeping systems within their organizations.

By the end of the training, participants will have the practical skills needed to design, implement, and maintain effective records management systems that strengthen compliance, improve information accessibility, and support organizational accountability.

Duration

5 Days

Who Should Attend

• Records and information managers responsible for records governance programs

• Compliance and risk officers overseeing regulatory compliance and data governance

• Information governance specialists implementing organizational information policies

• Archivists and librarians responsible for structured recordkeeping systems

• IT and knowledge management professionals supporting digital records platforms

• Legal and audit officers responsible for compliance monitoring and documentation

Individual Impact

• Gain mastery of the DIRKS methodology to strengthen your professional toolkit

• Build confidence in designing and implementing modern records systems

• Reduce personal risk by ensuring compliance with standards like ISO 15489

• Boost your career with in-demand, globally recognized records management skills

Organizational Impact

• Establish reliable, auditable records management systems

• Strengthen compliance with laws, regulations, and international standards

• Reduce costs and risks associated with poor information management

• Improve organizational efficiency, accountability, and decision-making

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Explain the DIRKS methodology and its application to modern recordkeeping.

• Conduct organizational analysis to identify recordkeeping needs.

• Design and implement records management policies and systems.

• Apply ISO 15489 standards in building compliant recordkeeping systems.

• Evaluate and improve existing records management programs.

Module 1: Introduction to DIRKS and Modern Records Management

• Why DIRKS? Origins and link to ISO 15489
• Overview of the 8 DIRKS steps
• Benefits of structured recordkeeping programs
• Practical Exercise: Map records challenges within your current organization against the DIRKS framework.

Module 2: Step A & B – Preliminary Investigation and Analysis of Business Activity

• Identifying recordkeeping requirements
• Analyzing organizational processes and stakeholders
• Defining business needs for records systems
• Case Study: Review a government department’s preliminary analysis for implementing DIRKS.

Module 3: Step C & D – Identification of Requirements & Assessment of Existing Systems

• Understanding legal, regulatory, and business recordkeeping needs
• Assessing strengths and weaknesses of current systems
• Building a compliance matrix
• Practical Exercise: Conduct a mini-system audit of sample organizational records.

Module 4: Step E, F & G – Design, Implementation & Integration of Recordkeeping Systems

• Designing policies, classification schemes, and metadata standards
• Implementing electronic and physical recordkeeping solutions
• Integrating records management with IT and business systems
• Case Study: Explore a multinational company’s shift from paper-based to electronic recordkeeping under DIRKS.

Module 5: Step H – Monitoring, Review & Continuous Improvement

• Evaluating performance of recordkeeping systems
• Measuring compliance and organizational benefits
• Continuous improvement in records management
• Practical Exercise: Develop a monitoring and review framework for a sample records system.