Infogov Hot Seat: Recent Episodes

Jim Merrifield

Candid interviews with practitioners, consultants and solution providers on hot topics in the information governance industry.

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Kaan Volkan discusses his entry into the information governance industry and the importance of managing data in place. He explains the three categories of in-place data management solutions and the challenges they address. Kaan also shares his use of AI tools for transcription, background editing, and content recommendations. He emphasizes the value of authentic and human-driven content. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the evolving landscape of information governance and the role of technology in streamlining content management.

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Michael Potters, founder of Glenmont Group, discusses his background and the current hiring landscape in the information governance field. He emphasizes the importance of standing out in a competitive market and offers advice on how to do so, including utilizing LinkedIn effectively and developing expertise in data science and AI. Potters also highlights the impact of remote work on recruitment and identifies industries and skills that are in high demand, such as data science and compliance. He concludes by encouraging job seekers to recognize the value of their knowledge and expertise.

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In this conversation, Jim Merrifield interviews Jordan Uytterhagen from Cadence Solutions. They discuss Jordan's role, his upcoming family trip, and their experiences at the ARMA Canada Conference. They also talk about the partnership between ARMA and Cadence Solutions, which offers training on Microsoft Purview in records management, e-discovery, and data loss prevention. The conversation highlights the importance of hands-on training and the diverse audience that attends these courses.

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Tom Preece, Director of Information Governance Solutions at Rational Enterprise, discusses how their solution ensures compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR and CCPA. He explains the importance of knowing what data an organization has and why it's there, and how their tool allows organizations to interview the data itself to understand its purpose and origin. Preece also highlights the challenges organizations face in implementing effective information governance practices and how their software addresses these challenges. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of data management in reducing the risk of data breaches and explains how their solution helps organizations improve their data management and ensure appropriate protections are in place.

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In this conversation, Trevor Banks discusses his role in the Government of Canada and the upcoming ARMA Canada Conference. He highlights the importance of community and the need to redefine the information management community in the digital age. Trevor also previews his sessions at the conference, focusing on organizational design and the discussion around information governance versus IG. He emphasizes the importance of continuing the conversation and adapting to the changes happening in the profession.

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Join us at the ARMA Canada Conference to discover the latest in AI and Data Governance. Learn from experts in the field and stay ahead of the curve!In this video, Shelly Smith, the records and information management coordinator for the City of Winnipeg, shares insights about the upcoming ARMA Canada Conference in Calgary. She discusses the diverse educational sessions planned for the conference, covering essential topics such as records management fundamentals, privacy concerns, utilizing Microsoft 365, data governance strategies, e-discovery processes, and the role of AI. Attendees can anticipate engaging with presenters and industry experts, participating in informative roundtable discussions, and enjoying social activities like trivia night. The conference aims to address current industry trends and challenges, with a particular focus on the integration of AI in records management practices. Additionally, Shelly mentions an exciting pre-conference tour of Banff, adding a touch of adventure to the event.

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Cat Casey, the Chief Growth Officer at Reveal, discusses the growing acceptance and adoption of AI in the legal industry. She highlights the shift in attitudes towards AI since the introduction of ChatGPT and generative AI, which has made AI more accessible and less intimidating. Cat emphasizes the importance of embracing AI and learning new skills to stay ahead in the AI revolution. She also mentions her involvement in the New York Bar AI Task Force and the publication of a paper on generative AI. Cat shares her upcoming speaking engagements and encourages professionals to act fast and be curious about AI.

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In this episode of the InfoGov Hot Seat, host Jim Merrifield interviews Mike Salvarezza about the upcoming InfoNext conference. Mike provides an introduction to his role and background in information governance and shares a fun fact about being an underwater photographer. The primary objectives and themes of the InfoNext conference are discussed, including the focus on legal, operational, and technological aspects of information governance. The types of sessions and speakers at the conference are highlighted, with a special mention of keynote speakers and the great debate session. The conference's approach to addressing the latest trends and challenges in information governance, such as AI and privacy, is explained. Networking opportunities at the conference are emphasized, including breaks, receptions, and golf outings. The incorporation of feedback from previous conferences to improve the event is mentioned. Mike concludes with his thoughts on the exciting opportunities and challenges in the field of information governance.

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In this conversation, Jacqueline Stockwell from Leadership Through Data discusses Microsoft 365 training programs, measurable improvements in productivity, interactive learning methods, and the use of Microsoft Copilot and AI technology. She emphasizes the importance of tailoring training programs to meet specific needs, using interactive platforms and gamification to engage learners, and incorporating micro-learning for effective knowledge retention. Jacqueline also highlights the need for organizations to adopt AI technology like Copilot while ensuring proper security measures and user training. She encourages authenticity and creativity in utilizing AI tools and emphasizes the role of human expertise in the process

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Chuck Barth, Director of Information Governance at Shepard Mullen Richter & Hampton, discusses the Law Firm Information Governance Symposium (LFIGS) and his involvement with the group. LFIGS focuses on bringing together experienced legal industry IG leaders to share knowledge and contribute to community papers. The group meets regularly to discuss relevant topics such as data governance, matter mobility, generative AI, and retention. Chuck emphasizes the importance of staying updated on IG education and evolving with changing technologies. He encourages professionals to push the envelope and bring new ideas to their firms.

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Barbara Dalton, Director of Data Privacy and Information Governance at Norton Rose Fulbright, discusses her role and experiences in the field of information governance. She shares strategies for ensuring data integrity and security, highlights the challenges faced in the industry, and emphasizes the importance of staying updated on privacy laws and regulations. Dalton also discusses the impact of technology on information governance and expresses excitement for the future of the field.

Takeaways

  • Building strong relationships with IT is crucial for effective information governance.
  • Working with attorneys can be challenging, but it is important to help them understand the value of information governance.
  • Staying updated on privacy laws and regulations requires active effort and engagement with professional organizations.
  • Advancements in technology have greatly changed the landscape of information governance, offering new opportunities and challenges.
  • The future of information governance lies in leveraging AI and other technologies to automate repetitive tasks and focus on strategic initiatives.

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SUMMARY

In this episode, host Jim Merrifield interviews Kate Wertime from Jones Day about information governance (IG) and its importance in today's data-driven world. Kate shares her background in systems analysis and librarianship, as well as her experience in records management and legal. They discuss the concept of IG, common misconceptions about it, and a case study where effective IG made a significant difference in a company's operations and risk management. They also explore the role of AI and machine learning in IG and the challenges of data ownership and collaboration. The episode concludes with Kate's final thoughts on IG.

TAKEAWAYS

  • Information governance (IG) manages an organization's information through its lifecycle and ensures access controls, confidentiality, legal holds, compliance, and knowledge sharing.
  • IG is not just records management rebranded; it encompasses a broader range of responsibilities and considerations.
  • Effective IG can make a significant difference in a company's operations and risk management, as demonstrated by a case study involving data movement monitoring.
  • Practitioners in the field of IG should focus on understanding the aspects of AI and machine learning that relate to data repositories, data security, and client data protection.

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In this conversation, Jim Merrifield interviews Joe Shepley, a consultant at Alvarez & Marcell, about his role in information risk and governance. They discuss unconventional advice for clients, the importance of addressing legacy data, advice for a younger self, funny moments in consulting, and the essential skills every consultant should have. They also touch on the future of information governance and the increasing importance of data cleanup and compliance.

Takeaways

  • Addressing legacy data is crucial for reducing risk and improving information governance.
  • Consultants should focus on writing skills, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
  • The future of information governance will involve increased regulatory enforcement and advancements in AI technology.
  • The human element, including empathy and care for clients, is a key differentiator for consultants.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

01:16Unconventional Advice for Clients

03:19Addressing Legacy Data

04:31Advice for Younger Self

06:14Funny or Unexpected Moment in Consulting

08:50Fictional Character as a Consultant

11:14Essential Skills for Consultants

15:35The Future of Information Governance

19:53Conclusion

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In this conversation, Jim Merrifield interviews Geoff Zodda from Pearl Care Search Group about the current hiring landscape and trends in the legal industry. They discuss the qualities and skills that are prioritized when evaluating potential candidates, the impact of remote work on recruitment and company culture, and advice for job seekers looking to stand out in a competitive market. They also touch on industries and skills that are in high demand, particularly in the areas of cloud governance, low-code development, and cybersecurity. The conversation concludes with final thoughts and encouragement for job seekers.T

Takeaways

  • The hiring landscape in 2023 has shifted from a candidate-driven market to one where clients are driving the process, requiring candidates to be patient and clients to value good candidates.
  • In addition to technical skills, qualities such as analytical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication are highly valued in potential candidates.
  • While remote work has become more prevalent, not all candidates are asking for it, and many still value face-to-face interaction and the opportunity to build relationships in the office.
  • Job seekers can stand out in a competitive market by leveraging their network and seeking introductions to hiring managers or peers within organizations. Building relationships and utilizing LinkedIn can be valuable in the job search process.
  • Industries and skills in high demand include cloud governance, low-code development, and cybersecurity, particularly in the context of cloud technologies.
  • Continuing education and staying up-to-date with industry trends and technologies is crucial for information governance professionals to remain competitive in the evolving landscape.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

02:27Current Hiring Landscape and Trends

03:20Qualities and Skills in Potential Candidates

06:09Impact of Remote Work on Recruitment and Company Culture

07:37Advice for Job Seekers

09:41Industries and Skills in High Demand

15:47Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Job Seekers

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Summary

In this episode, Jim Merrifield interviews Andrew Ysasi from VRC about the importance of secure and efficient record storage in the current digital landscape. They discuss the challenges of cybersecurity, the unique features of VRC's record storage solutions, and the importance of customer service. Andrew also shares insights on how VRC secures and maintains client records, mitigates transfers of record storage, and stays up to date on regulations and standards. The episode concludes with Andrew's final thoughts on the need for intentional investment in cybersecurity and information governance.

Takeaways

  • Secure and efficient record storage is crucial in the current digital landscape, considering the intense cyber threats, changing privacy regulations, and emerging technologies.
  • VRC sets itself apart from other record storage solutions by prioritizing customer service, providing accessibility to staff, and offering a range of services like shredding and release of information.
  • To secure and maintain client records, VRC invests in certifications, ongoing security awareness and training, and compliance specialists. They prioritize physical and digital security to protect sensitive information.
  • Transferring record storage can be challenging, but VRC's resources, commitment, and national footprint allow them to provide seamless transitions and even offer cleanup opportunities for clients.
  • Staying up to date on regulations and standards requires an intentional information governance program, external audits, and ongoing education and training. Organizations must invest in cybersecurity and information governance to protect their data and comply with regulations.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

03:10 - Importance of Secure and Efficient Record Storage

05:18 - What Sets VRC's Record Storage Solutions Apart

08:37 - Customer Service as a Key Differentiator

10:11 - Securing and Maintaining Client's Records

13:44 - Challenges and Mitigating Transfers of Record Storage

17:54 - Staying Up to Date on Regulations and Standards

18:57 - Final Thoughts

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Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast with Trevor Bell, Chief Customer Officer at Zero Systems and a leader in AI software development! In this interview, Trevor answers all your burning questions about the process of developing AI software, as well as how his AI system uses machine learning to improve over time. Plus, hear him discuss some unique features of Zero Systems's product and how they address potential ethical concerns. Finally, get inspired by a success story from a client who experienced significant value from their AI software! Don't miss this valuable conversation about Artificial Intelligence with Trevor Bell!

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Welcome to our channel! In this special video, we sit down for an exclusive interview with David Gould, a prominent figure in the technology industry and a representative from EncompaaS, a leading technology solutions provider.🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell to catch all our exclusive interviews and tech insights!Join us as we dive deep into the world of technology and business with David. In this interview, we discuss Encompass's innovative solutions, the future of technology in business, and valuable insights into staying ahead in the ever-changing technology landscape.In this video, you'll discover:✅ Encompass cutting-edge technology offerings.✅ David's insights into the tech industry trends.✅ Tips for businesses to thrive in the digital age.✅ Exclusive sneak peeks into upcoming tech innovations.If you're passionate about technology, business, and innovation, this interview is a must-watch.If you enjoyed this video, please give it a thumbs up, share it with your tech-savvy friends, and leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions for David.

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In this video, I sit down with Information Governance Senior Director, Jim Koziol, to discuss the current state of legal technology and the challenges faced by organizations in implementing an effective information governance strategy.

Increasingly, legal organizations are finding themselves in the midst of a digital transformation. Yet, many are still struggling to implement an effective information governance strategy. In this interview, I sit down with Jim Koziol, a leading authority on information governance and digital transformation, to discuss the current state of legal technology and the challenges faced by organizations in implementing an effective information governance strategy.

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International Legal Technology Assocation (ILTA) CEO Joy Heath Rush sat down for an interview on  @InfoGovHotSeat  and revealed her vision for the future of legal technology. In this interview, Joy discusses the importance of legal technology in the modern world, the importance of ILTA in the global legal technology industry, and more.

If you're interested in legal technology, be sure to watch this interview. Joy Heath Rush discusses her vision for the future of legal technology, diving into the importance of ILTA in the global legal technology industry, and more. You'll learn about ILTA's mission, history, and future plans for the legal technology industry at ILTACon in Orlando.

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This  @InfoGovHotSeat  episode features Susan Gleason at Withers Bergman. Tune in to hear her answers to these 5 burning questions:

  1. Brief Introduction of your role, how long you have been with the company, and one fun fact about yourself?

  2. You attended and spoke at MER and ARMA NNJ INFORM recently, what were your key takeaways from those events? What events are you planning to attend the rest of the year?

  3. What projects are priorities for you this year?

  4. What does your internal Information Governance team look like? Where do you see opportunities for growth?

  5. Where do you see the Information Governance Industry in the next 1-3 years?

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This episode features Lewis Eisen of Perfect Policies. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • Brief Introduction of your role, how long you have been with the company, and one fun fact about you.
  • I know you attended MER and ARMA NNJ INFORM recently, what were your key takeaways from those events? What events are you planning to attend the rest of the year?
  • Let's talk a bit about your book, "Rules - A Guide to Drafting Respectful Policies & Directives" - what made you write this book and can you give us some highlights? Where can we purchase a copy?
  • With all this talk of Chat GPT and GPT technology, how do you think companies can leverage Artificial Intelligence, perhaps related to drafting policies, etc?
  • Where do you see the InfoGov Industry in the next 1-3 years?

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This episode features Gene Stakhov at EnChoice. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  1. The AIIM Conference took place recently, what were your key takeaways from that all day event? Are there other events you are looking forward to this year?

  2. What is the makeup of your internal team focused on governance software, specifically records management?

  3. What do you think is the key differentiator of your product versus the competition?

  4. What service areas are you focused on and why?

  5. Where do you see the future state of the records management software market in the next 3 years?

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This episode features Rich Hale at Active Navigation. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • What were your key takeaways from Legal Week?
  • What is the makeup of your internal team focused on governance software, specifically records management?
  • What do you think is the key differentiator of your product versus the competition?
  • What product features are you focused on and why?
  • Where do you see the future state of the records management software market in the next 3 years?

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This episode features Kathryn Rattigan, Robinson & Cole. Tune in to hear her answers to these 5 burning questions:1.What is the makeup of your practice group focused on governance, privacy & security?2. How has your practice and data privacy industry changed over the past few years?3. What issues are your clients facing related to data privacy and information governance?4. Where do you see the future state of data privacy, security and governance market in the next 3 years and beyond?5. What conferences are you looking forward to attending/speaking at this year?

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This episode features JC Gaillard at Corix Partners. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:1. What made you decide to write your book "The Cyber Security Leadership Handbook"?2. What kind of topics are discussed in the book?3. Who is the audience? Who should read the book?4. How can you purchase the book?5. How do you see the Cyber Security industry changing in the coming years? What advice do you have for CISOs?

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This episode features Jed Cawthorne at ShinyDocs. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:1. Brief Introduction of your role, how long you have been with the company, and one fun fact about yourself?2. What is the makeup of your internal team focused on governance software, specifically records management?3. What do you think is the key differentiator of your product versus the competition?4. What product features are you focused on and why?5. Where do you see the future state of the information governance market in the next 3 years?

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This episode features Christopher Hocky at Bond, Schoeneck & King. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • Recently you posted an interesting topic on Linkedin related to the growth of digital data and its impact on information governance , can you expand on that a bit?
  • What projects are priorities for you this year?
  • What does your internal InfoGov team look like? Where do you see opportunities for growth?
  • Which InfoGov events do you plan on attending/speaking at this year?
  • Where do you see the InfoGov industry in 3-5 years?

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This episode features Nitza Medina-Garcia at InfoCompass. Tune in to hear her answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • When did you start leading the ARMA Legal Roundtable and what made you do so?
  • What kind of topics does this group discuss?
  • How often do you meet?
  • Who can join? And how to join if interested?
  • How do you see the group itself evolving in the coming years?

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This episode features Joe Bartolo, Sr. Director at Knovos & Author of Quantum Uncertainty - The Future of Information Governance. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • What made you decide to write your book "Quantum Uncertainty" The Future of IG?
  • What kind of topics are discussed in the book?
  • Who is the audience? Who should read the book?
  • How can you purchase the book?
  • How do you see the Infogov industry changing in the coming years?

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This episode features Harold Westervelt, CEO of FileTrail. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • What were your key takeaways from ILTACON 2022?
  • What is the makeup of your internal team focused on governance software, specifically records management?
  • What do you think is the key differentiator of your product versus the competition?
  • What product features are you focused on and why?
  • Where do you see the future state of the records management software market in the next 3 years?

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This episode features Leigh Isaacs, Senior Director of Information Governance at DLA Piper & creator of the Legal Roundtable. Tune in to hear her answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • When did you start the Legal Roundtable and what made you do so?
  • What kind of topics does this group discuss?
  • How often do you meet?
  • Who can join? And how to join if interested?
  • How do you see the group itself evolving in the coming years?

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This episode features Andrea Demers, Product Manager of iManage. Tune in to hear her answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • What were your key takeaways from ILTACON 2022?
  • What is the makeup of your internal team focused on governance software, specifically records management?
  • What do you think is the key differentiator of your product versus the competition?
  • What product features are you focused on and why?
  • Where do you see the future state of the records management software market in the next 3 years?

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This episode features Kurt Thies, Vice President of Gimmal. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • What were your key takeaways from ILTACON 2022?
  • What is the makeup of your internal team focused on governance software, specifically records management?
  • What do you think is the key differentiator of your product versus the competition?
  • What product features are you focused on and why?
  • Where do you see the future state of the records management software market in the next 3 years?

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This episode features Chris Giles, Founder & CEO of LegalRM. Tune in to hear his answers to these 5 burning questions:

  • What were your key takeaways from ILTACON 2022?
  • What is the makeup of your internal team focused on governance software, specifically records management?
  • What do you think is the key differentiator of your product versus the competition?
  • What product features are you focused on and why?
  • Where do you see the future state of the records management software market in the next 3 years?