Artificial intelligence and records management in contemporary organizations: what cultural aspects are required? Insights from the information culture framework (ICF)

Purpose This study aims to examine how artificial intelligence can be effectively integrated into records management practices by identifying the key cultural aspects that should be aligned with the prerequisites of automation. The author also discusses the new roles that are to be played by records managers in this context. Design/methodology/approach To identify those cultural aspects, the author has used the Information culture framework (ICF) developed by Oliver and Foscarini (2020). For each of the three levels of the ICF (i.e. visible, intermediate and invisible), the author has analyzed the cultural aspects serving as the prerequisites of AI for records management purposes. Findings The results of our theoretical reflection reveal that for AI features to be integrated into records management practices, many cultural aspects are to be taken into consideration. AI-powered technologies use, collaboration practices and horizontal communication are some visible cultural aspects contemporary organizations should have in place to meet the requirements of automation. Furthermore, policies and strategies should define automation purposes, identify actors that will be involved in records management practices and describe their respective roles. Finally, attention should be given to individual perceptions and personal traits to ensure that AI technologies are embraced by organizational actors. All those aspects should support the development of a common AI-related language in the organization and influence the extent to which actors trust AI-powered technologies. In this context of automation, records managers will have to assume new roles in change management and promoting information competencies, to assess organizations’ readiness to integrate AI into its records management practices and make the appropriate use of it. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to use the ICF model suggested by Oliver and Foscarini (2020) to identify the main cultural aspects to target for the effective use of AI in records management practices. Furthermore, the author confirmed the relevance of the expression “augmented records management”, referring to AI-assisted records management practices in contemporary organizations, by highlighting the fact that AI will not replace human work but can, rather, be used as a tool to support it.