The difference between a Document and a Record?

Am I correct in assuming that anything like a procedure, work instruction and the like are to be considered documents whereas a form/log would be considered a record?

Thanks!!!!!!

Re: Document or Record ?

A form is a document, until you "record" information on it....then it becomes a record of what happened.

I look at them this way, documents tell me what to do, how to do, when to do. Records show what I did, how I did it, when I did it. The piece of paper (database entry, whatever) is basically a template type document showing you exactly where to input the information to make the best sense.

Don't get too tied up in the whole what kind of document is it, you can easily overthink the whole process.

Re: Document or Record ?

That makes good sense.

Thank you!

Re: Document or Record ?

David J Quality said:

Am I correct in assuming that anything like a procedure, work instruction and the like are to be considered documents whereas a form/log would be considered a record?

Thanks!!!!!!

Click to expand...

David,

An easy way to remember the difference goes like this:

• A Document says: DO!
• A Record says: DONE!

Almost too simple perhaps, but it works.

Stijloor.

Re: Document or Record ?

Jan, yours is even simpler than mine, I like it!

Re: Document or Record ?

Also see these existing discussion threads: Documents and Records

I have to agree with Steelmaiden and Stijloor about their references to remenbering the differences between a document and a record. Personally I have always used:
Document: Present or future act or course of action
Record: History of something being done

But since I like the simplicity of Do and Done, I will be teaching that in the future with my people.