Hybrid record

A hybrid record is a collection of files or documents that can be composed of both electronic and physical artifacts, e.g., electronic emails, audio streams, and physical reports. Electronic artifacts can be spread over disparate digital systems and applications. Physical artifacts May Be inventoried or their locations tracked within the managed system. Hybrid Records are capable of identifying and Locating all artifacts referenced/contained therein, regardless of where the artifacts are managed or whether the document is electronic or physical.

Note, if the record is managed electronically and it includes physical documents, these are usually contained in a physical folder that is referenced in the information within the electronic record. If the record is managed physically (e.g., a physical folder), there is a means, e.g., bar code number or RFID, to access electronic components of that record.

Many business practices have been observed to utilize hybrid records. Even in locations that claim to be "paperless" there are often physical documents that are introduced to the work flow. One classic source of examples of this type can be found in The Myth of the Paperless Office by