Composite Object Retention Policy Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automating the information preservation and disposition process in document management systems is challenging due to the vast amount of generated information and complex relationships among different pieces of related information, necessitating efficient systems and techniques for managing information retention.
Innovation Solution
A client-server system with a retention policy application that applies different retention policies to complex objects composed of multiple related objects, using XML files to describe the structure and rules for applying retention policies, allowing for fine-grained control and automation of the retention process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual retention management is used, then flexibility in handling complex relationships is maintained, but productivity and automation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments complex objects into hierarchical components (containers and contained objects), allowing retention policies to be applied at different levels. This segmentation enables automated processing of large volumes of documents while maintaining the ability to handle complex relationships through structured breakdown of object hierarchies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (retention policy application and description files) that mediates between the complex object structure and the automated retention enforcement. This intermediary translates complex relationships into manageable policy applications, enabling automation without requiring direct complex object manipulation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If uniform retention policies are applied to all objects, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to different object types and relationships is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by allowing different retention policies to be applied to different objects within the same complex object hierarchy. Each object can have tailored retention requirements based on its specific type, container, and relationships, while the overall system maintains simplicity through automated policy selection and application.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention policy system is dynamic, automatically adapting policy selection based on the complex object structure, object types, and relationships. The system dynamically determines which policies apply to which objects without requiring manual configuration for each scenario, balancing adaptability with ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If detailed tracking of all document relationships is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time in processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-defining retention policies and object structure descriptions before retention management is needed. Complex object hierarchies and relationships are established and documented in advance, allowing the automated system to quickly process retention decisions without time-consuming analysis during actual retention enforcement.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques allow for applying a retention policy to a composite object. For each composite object type there is a description of the composite object structure and rules that determine how the retention policy is to be applied. A retention application can review the descriptions and rules and, based on the review, apply the appropriate retention policy to each of the objects that make up the composite object.