International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) Practice Exam

What is the first stage of the information life cycle?

1. Classification

2. Storage and protection

3. Receipt, collection, or creation

4. Disposition

The correct answer is: Receipt, collection, or creation

The first stage of the information life cycle is receipt, collection, or creation. This stage involves the initial acquisition or generation of data, which sets the foundation for all subsequent actions that will occur within the information life cycle. This can involve gathering information from various sources, creating new documents, or capturing data, which is critical for ensuring that the information is relevant and accurate from the very beginning. Understanding this stage is essential, as it determines the quality and type of information that will be processed in later stages such as classification, storage, and ultimately disposition. Each of these subsequent stages relies on the effectiveness of the initial receipt, collection, or creation to ensure that the information is managed appropriately through its life cycle. This foundational aspect emphasizes the importance of thorough and effective data gathering processes, as they have a lasting impact on the integrity and usability of information as it is stored, shared, and eventually disposed of.