AC26 | Session 19
The Cauliflower Strategy: Sneaking RIM Into Organizational Priorities and Success
Target: Federal, Tribal, State, Local, Public Institutions of Higher Learning
Focus: Records Management
Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
GARA: "Program Establishment & Administration" OR "Training, Advocacy & Outreach" 
Overview

Records management is more than compliance—it is a strategic enabler. Yet traditional “one-size-fits-all” RIM messaging is often ignored. This session introduces the “Cauliflower Strategy”: blending RIM into broader organizational initiatives so it is embraced with less resistance and greater impact.

Presenters will explore how records professionals can build creative partnerships and position records management as part of the solution to organizational challenges (rather than an unfunded mandate). You’ll hear practical ideas for increasing visibility, making the case for additional resources, and rallying support from new allies.

Attendees Will Learn How To
  • Identify and engage partners who can champion RIM in unexpected ways
  • Integrate RIM into broader organizational initiatives
  • Flip the script from generic messaging to tailored impact
  • Proactively identify risk implications where RIM adds value
  • Mobilize allies to support business cases for increased RIM resources

Leave with a refreshed mindset for positioning RIM as a proactive, future-ready partner that drives organizational success.

Presenters
Pari Swift
University Records Manager, The Ohio State University
Pari Swift is the University Records Manager for The Ohio State University. She partners with IT, security, privacy, compliance, public records, and legal affairs on intersecting initiatives. Previously, she developed the records management program at the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and began her career at the State Archives of Ohio.

Pari is active in NAGARA as Professional Development Committee Chair and has served as past President and Treasurer. She holds a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh and became a Certified Records Manager in 2014.
Heather Hahn
Records Manager, Nevada Department of Transportation
Heather Hahn is the Records Manager for the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), where she ensures information is organized, secure, and accessible for staff and the public. She holds a Master’s in Archives and Records Administration from San José State University.

Formerly a crime scene investigator, Heather brings strong attention to detail and a commitment to best practices to her information governance work. She is passionate about outreach and positioning records management as a strategic resource—not just a requirement.