====== Data Retention ======

[[public:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:start|Go to Terms and Definitions]]

===== Discussion =====

Data Retention preserves [[public:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:m:managed_data|Managed Data]] for a specified period or until a specified condition occurs. The applicable Requirements, Policies, Constraints, Classifications, legal obligations, contractual obligations, Baselines, or decisions of an [[public:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:a:authority|Authority]] establish the retention requirement.

A retention requirement identifies the Data subject to retention, the event that begins the retention period, the duration or terminating condition, the required availability and [[public:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:i:integrity|Integrity]], and the Authority responsible for exceptions or changes.

Data Retention remains distinct from backup. A backup may support retention or recovery, but creating a backup does not establish how long Data must be preserved or whether its disposition is authorized.

===== Definition =====

//governed preservation of data for a specified period or until a specified condition occurs//

===== Source =====

Dido Solutions, Inc. and Jackrabbit Consulting, Inc., derived for DIDO-TE and informed by records-retention and disposition concepts used by the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

===== Note =====

Data Retention may require preservation of Data in active storage, archival storage, or another controlled form. The storage mechanism does not alter the governing retention period.

Expiration of a retention period does not itself authorize deletion or another [[public:99_annexes:annex-b-terms-and-definitions:d:data_disposition|Data Disposition]]. The applicable disposition requirement determines the permitted action.

===== Example =====

A Test Result and its associated Evidence are retained for seven years after the applicable Validation Decision unless a legal hold extends the retention period.

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© 2026 Dido Solutions, Inc. and Jackrabbit Consulting, Inc.
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