Association of Records Managers & Administrators

The Association of Records Managers & Administrators, commonly known as ARMA International, is a US-based nonprofit organization focused on information management and governance. Founded in 1955, it has evolved to become the oldest and largest association for the information management profession, with a significant international presence.

History

ARMA International was formed through the merger of two predecessor organizations: the Association of Records Executives and Administrators (AREA) and the American Records Management Association in 1975. This amalgamation solidified ARMA's position as a leading authority in records management and information governance.

Mission and Focus

ARMA International's primary mission is to provide educational resources and standards for managing records and information assets effectively. The organization serves a diverse membership base, including records managers, attorneys, IT specialists, consultants, and archivists. It addresses various aspects of information management, such as advanced technologies, information project management, and legal compliance.

Activities

• Educational Opportunities: ARMA offers conferences, publications, and webinars to educate its members about best practices and emerging trends in records management.
• Standards and Guidelines: It establishes and promotes the Generally Accepted Recordkeeping Principles, which are industry standards for information governance.
• Networking: ARMA facilitates networking among professionals through its annual conferences and chapter meetings, fostering collaboration across the globe.

Impact

ARMA International has been instrumental in shaping information management practices worldwide. Its contributions to developing and advocating for standards in information governance have significantly influenced how organizations manage their data and records. The organization continues to evolve, addressing modern challenges in digital recordkeeping and compliance.

Structure

While the organization is structured to serve members internationally, it operates primarily as a US-based nonprofit entity. It supports its global network through chapters and strategic partnerships.

Related Entities

ARMA International also supports the ARMA International Educational Foundation (now rebranded as AIEF), which offers scholarships and research grants to advance knowledge in information management. However, the Foundation operates independently and focuses on educational and research initiatives.

[1] https://www.thearma.org/history.htm [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ARMA_International [3] https://armaedfoundation.org/about-aief/history/ [4] https://www2.archivists.org/node/10265 [5] https://www.library.wisc.edu/archives/records-management/program-overview/about-arma-international-and-the-generally-accepted-record-keeping-principles/