The implementation of Open Text Content Server and its role in relation to the management of information’s lifecycle - the Canadian Context

Abstract

The increasing volume of content created in various media, makes it more and more challenging to manage it throughout its lifecycle. The Enterprise Content Management (ECM) tools available, can address the full scope of content management needs. Nevertheless, the key to a successful management of content enterprise wide is the successful implementation of the ECM tools. The article at hand discusses the use of Open Text’s Content Server as an enterprise content management solution for the private and public sectors in Canada, and its implementation in order to manage information throughout its lifecycle. Specifically, the analysis focuses on the implementation of Content Server in a large municipality and in a large Canadian oil company, and the challenges these organizations face regarding the lifecycle management of their information. The article uses interviews with professionals from these organizations who lead enterprise information management or participate in decision-making processes. Based on these interviews, the article draws conclusions regarding the implementation of Content Server and the preparedness of the organizations to manage information of long-term business value in the electronic environment. In addition, the article demonstrates how the lack of an ECM strategy governing the enterprise-wide implementation of the tool affected the effective and efficient management of content throughout its lifecycle in the organizations under discussion.