Are legal departments typically aware of GARP? If not, what are some suggestions for engaging the department in GARP implementation?
Since GARP is a relatively new concept, it would be surprising if most legal departments were aware of it by now. However, as noted in response to Question 1, GARP is catching on at great speed. That said, to engage legal departments the first step could be to obtain authority to conduct at least the ARMA health checkup tool noted above. I have found that organizations are quite receptive to the results, once they realize in concrete terms the status of the organization. Many of my clients in RIM departments are using GARP to convince their superiors of the need for additional resources. Starting this year I am starting to see RIM departments get budgeting for 2012 tied to GARP assessments. One of my clients just received authority to add two members to his RIM staff. Of course, my experience is purely anecdotal and may not be indicative of all organizations.
John Isaza is a California-based attorney and founding partner of the Howett Isaza Law Group, a law firm that specializes in electronic information governance, records management and overall corporate compliance. He may be reached at Jisaza@HiLawGroup.com or follow him on Twitter and LinkedIn.