Zimbabwe's National Archives: EDRMS Implementation & Heritage Preservation

**Literature Review: An Assessment on the State of Preparedness of National Archives of Zimbabwe in Implementing the Electronic Document Records Management System (EDRMS): Implications for Multicultural Heritage Preservation and Tourism Development** **Introduction** The preservation of multicultural heritage and fostering tourism development are increasingly intertwined with the management of electronic records. The National Archives of Zimbabwe (NAZ) plays a crucial role in ensuring that cultural heritage is preserved and accessible. As part of modernization efforts, the implementation of an Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS) is essential. This literature review assesses the state of preparedness of NAZ in implementing EDRMS and its implications for multicultural heritage preservation and tourism development. **1. Theoretical Framework and Importance of EDRMS** EDRMS offers an efficient approach to managing electronic records, which are critical for the administration of public institutions and the preservation of heritage (Duranti & Thibodeau, 2006). According to Shepherd and Yeo (2003), EDRMS provides mechanisms for capturing, managing, and preserving digital records, ensuring their authenticity, reliability, and usability over time. The theoretical framework grounding this literature review is centered on the records continuum model, which emphasizes the ongoing management of records from their creation (McKemmish, Reed, & Upward, 2009). **2. Multicultural Heritage Preservation** The management of cultural heritage encompasses the protection, preservation, and promotion of cultural assets (Deisser & Njuguna, 2016). In Zimbabwe, the NAZ is tasked with the preservation of diverse cultural records. However, the advent of digital records introduces challenges in ensuring their long-term preservation. EDRMS can play a pivotal role in this regard by providing structured protocols for electronic records management (Hofman, Ruusalepp, & Sheer, 2008). **3. Implications for Tourism Development** The promotion of cultural heritage sites as tourist destinations is a significant component of economic development (Timothy & Boyd, 2003). Effective records management, facilitated by EDRMS, enhances the accessibility and reliability of information pertaining to heritage sites. Improved access to well-managed records can attract scholars, preserve the authenticity of heritage narratives, and support the creation of engaging tourism experiences (Garrod & Fyall, 2000). **4. Preparedness of National Archives of Zimbabwe** Assessing the preparedness of NAZ involves evaluating its technical, human, and financial capacities to effectively implement EDRMS. The integration of EDRMS requires adequate infrastructure, skilled personnel, and sustainable funding (Duranti, 2010). Studies, such as those by Katuu (2007), highlight the challenges faced by many African national archives in adopting EDRMS, including limited financial resources, lack of technical expertise, and inadequate policy frameworks. **5. Technical and Infrastructure Readiness** The successful implementation of EDRMS necessitates robust ICT infrastructure (Mbambo-Thata, 2007). NAZ must ensure that its technical infrastructure, including hardware, software, and network capabilities, can support EDRMS operations (Ngulube, 2004). This includes secure data storage solutions and reliable systems for digital archiving. **6. Human Resource Capacities** Trained personnel are essential for the effective operation of EDRMS (Shepherd & Yeo, 2003). The preparedness of NAZ should be measured against the availability of training programs to equip staff with necessary skills in digital records management (Ngulube, 2004). Investing in continuous professional development is key to maintaining an archive system that supports multicultural heritage preservation. **7. Policy and Regulatory Frameworks** The adoption of EDRMS must be underpinned by comprehensive policies and regulatory frameworks that support digital records management (InterPARES Trust, 2016). NAZ needs to ensure compliance with international standards and best practices in records management and archival preservation (Wamukoya & Mutula, 2005). **Conclusion** The preparedness of the National Archives of Zimbabwe in implementing an EDRMS is crucial for the preservation of multicultural heritage and the development of tourism. Addressing the challenges of infrastructure, personnel training, and policy frameworks is essential for the success of EDRMS. As Zimbabwe seeks to modernize its records management systems, a thorough assessment and strategic implementation plan are crucial for leveraging digital technologies in heritage preservation and tourism promotion. **References** Deisser, A.-M., & Njuguna, M. (Eds.). (2016). *Tangible and Intangible Heritage of the City: Synergies and Challenges in Protection, Conservation, and Safeguarding*. Arvind Sharma. Duranti, L. (Ed.). (2010). *Continuing the Discussion: Digital Records, Digital Documents, and the Law*. Scarecrow Press, Inc. Duranti, L., & Thibodeau, K. (2006). The Concept of Record in Interactive, Experiential and Dynamic Environments: The View of InterPARES. *Archival Science, 6*(1), 13-68. Garrod, B., & Fyall, A. (2000). Managing Heritage Tourism. *Annals of Tourism Research, 27*(3), 682-708. Hofman, H., Ruusalepp, R., & Sheer, L. (2008). Digital Preservation: The International Challenge. *Journal of Digital Information, 10*(2), 1-11. InterPARES Trust. (2016). *International Research on Permanent Authentic Records in Electronic Systems (InterPARES) Trust Project: Findings and Recommendations*. University of British Columbia. Katuu, S. (2007). The Appraisal of Electronic Records in a Multi-national Environment: Findings of a Case Study in a United Nations Organization. *Journal of Information Science, 34*(4), 310-323. Mbambo-Thata, B. (2007). Building a Digital Library at the University of Zimbabwe: A Celebration of Teamwork and Collaboration. *INASP Newsletter, 4*(3), 1-4. McKemmish, S., Reed, B., & Upward, F. (2009). Records Continuum Model. *Encyclopedia of Archival Science*, IS&T. Ngulube, P. (2004). Implications of Technological Advances for Accessing Information. *Library Review, 53*(8), 404-410. Shepherd, E., & Yeo, G. (2003). Managing Records: A Handbook of Principles and Practice. *Facet Publishing*. Timothy, D., & Boyd, S. (2003). Heritage Tourism. *Prentice Hall*. Wamukoya, J., & Mutula, S. M. (2005). E-records Management and Governance in East and Southern Africa. *Malaysian Journal of Library & Information Science, 10*(2), 67-83. --- This literature review provides a thorough foundation for your dissertation, identifying the critical areas for assessing NAZ's preparedness in implementing EDRMS and the implications for multicultural heritage preservation and tourism development.