Infrastructure for the implementation of artificial intelligence to support records management at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in South Africa

Abstract

This study sought to investigate artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure required to manage records at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa. AI algorithms are used to assist robotic machines in performing their functions effectively and efficiently across different disciplines, including archives and records management. Convergent mixed-methods research was conducted, and data were collected using interviews and questionnaires. Data were analysed thematically and statistically and presented in tables and figures. The study revealed that AI infrastructure was a prerequisite for providing high-quality records management services at CSIR. However, the records management practitioners lack the knowledge and skills required to implement AI infrastructure for records management effectively. The study proposes a framework to guide the application of AI by CSIR. The proposed framework will specify the AI infrastructure required and AI application to the management of records at CSIR. It is hoped that the proposed framework will serve as a benchmark and guideline for the implementation of AI in the archives and records management industry.