Information audit and its benefits

An Information Audit is a systematic review of an organization's information resources, flows and uses - what information exists, where it is stored, who owns and uses it, how it moves, and how well it meets business needs and is managed. It differs from an IT audit because it focuses on the information itself and its value, not only the technology.

Benefits

1. Identifies information assets and shows what is held and where.
2. Finds gaps and duplication - missing information, redundant data and wasted effort.
3. Improves decision making by making relevant information easier to find.
4. Reduces cost by removing unused systems, subscriptions and duplicate storage.
5. Improves information flow and communication between departments.
6. Strengthens security and compliance - sensitive data is classified and legal retention rules are met.
7. Supports information strategy and planning and justifies IS investments.
8. Increases the value of information as a resource and encourages sharing and knowledge management.