This flow diagram illustrates the phases of the information life cycle.
In the first phase a plan is developed. Users must determine their information needs in order to accomplish their objectives and plan accordingly.
In the next phase users create and collect information. Users need to identify the value of the information to the organization and manage it accordingly, ensuring that it is accessible to those who use it.
After the creation and collection phase the information is organized. It is recommended that users organize their information logically and systematically in order to facilitate search and retrieval.
The next phase is to reuse and share the information. Once information is organized users are able to find and reuse the information and leverage its usefulness by sharing it with others, reducing duplication of effort and improving service delivery.
The next phase is to maintain and protect the information. Information must be maintained and protected from the time it is organized up until the end of the life cycle, where it is transferred or destroyed. Protecting information involves not only guarding against unauthorized access, disclosure or destruction, but also preserving its integrity and authenticity.
The last phase is to transfer or destroy the information. While some information will need to be kept long-term to support an institution's operational needs or to preserve information of enduring value, other information can be disposed of when it has outlived its usefulness.