Here's to a prosperous New Year!(IN FOCUS: A Message from the Editors) (Editorial)

• Author: Wiler, Vicki

Entering 2009, organizations are facing tremendous economic challenges, including staff and budget cutbacks and tighter competition. Coupled with increasing regulations and litigation, these challenges make records and information management (RIM) an even greater business imperative.

As always, ARMA International is here to help you answer the challenge. This publication is one of the best illustrations of that commitment. Over the years, this magazine's content and presentation have evolved to reflect the growth and maturity of the RIM profession.

As you can see from this issue, we've now moved into the next generation of the publication. Much of the change reflected is in response to feedback we received from you. Aside from the fresh look, one of the most evident changes is dropping "journal" from the magazine's name and, along with it, the incorrect connotation that it is the work of academics for academics.

All changes, however, lead to the same end: an even more relevant and accessible educational resource. You will continue to find in Information Management magazine a variety of articles about trends in business, the industry, and the profession.

A perfect example is this issue's three-part feature about the growing use of Web 2.0 tools in organizations and the challenges it raises for managing information effectively. The first part sets the stage with a brief introduction to Web 2.0. Next, Jesse Wilkins, CDIA+, discusses Web 2.0 benefits. Finally, Patrick Cunningham, CRM, warns of the risks associated with the use of these tools. Together they present a well-rounded view of the RIM implications of Web 2.0 in the workplace.

The ongoing debate about Microsoft SharePoint makes "Selecting the Right Tools for Records Management" by Brent Gatewood, CRM, timely. This article provides an excellent starting point for discussions among RIM, IT, and legal professionals about the implications of...