While it’s tempting to use a spreadsheet to build information governance tools, there are real benefits for using database software like a.k.a.® for undertaking this task.
Integrated for greater efficiency
A relational database enables links to be made between different data elements. The a.k.a.® templates make extensive use of link fields, lookup sets and relationships to streamline data entry, eliminate redundancy, and ensure consistency.
With this functionality you can build an integrated information governance toolkit linking information assets to classification, retention policies, legislative requirements, and organizational roles.
Smarter reporting
The way in which information is represented makes an huge difference to it’s usability. Professionally formatted, targeted reports will be taken more seriously.
It’s not enough to collate information – it’s what you can do with it.
With a database, you can extract the data in many different ways enabling the output of multiple reports from the same dataset. Our interactive reporting provide your audience the means to slice and dice the dataset to extract the very information they need.
Spreadsheets are boring and bland. You can make your information governance tools visible and engaging through a well-designed web interface.
Shared editing
With a database multiple people can access and edit the database at the same time. Version control is ensured when there is no need to make copies.
Shared Ownership
Enterprise information management is a shared responsibility. A well-crafted database design is extensible and can accommodate the needs of multiple stakeholders across the organization.
Greater capacity
Scalability is always an issue with spreadsheets. A database has the capacity to hold large numbers of records without degradation of performance.
Easier to control
Unlike a spreadsheet, a.k.a.® keeps the design separate from the data. This means that design elements such as field length, format, syntax can be controlled by the administrator and can’t be messed up by the users.
Easier to maintain over time
While building information governance tools may be a project, maintaining them is a process.
That process can be managed more easily by building smarts into the database to ensure regular reviews and updates.