Watch The Decade of Discovery

The Decade of Discovery, released in 2014, is a documentary film that explores the impact of electronic records on American society and their potential for reshaping the legal system. It features interviews with a range of experts, including lawyers, judges, historians, records-management professionals, and technology experts. The film is structured around the Electronic Records Archive (ERA) project, a major initiative launched by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) in the early 2000s. The ERA aimed to create a comprehensive, unified system for managing and preserving all types of electronic records created by the federal government. The project was a response to a growing realization that paper-based records were becoming increasingly inadequate for storing and managing the vast amounts of data generated by the government and society at large. The film traces the history of the ERA project from its inception to its successful implementation in 2013.

The film is not just a historical account of the development of the ERA, however. It also explores the broader implications of electronic records for the legal system and for society as a whole. One of the key themes of the film is the tension between privacy and transparency in the age of electronic records. On the one hand, electronic records have the potential to greatly increase access to information and promote government accountability. On the other hand, they also raise serious concerns about privacy and the protection of personal information.

The film features several interesting case studies that illustrate these themes. One of the most compelling is the story of the Bush White House email controversy. In the mid-2000s, it was discovered that millions of emails sent and received by senior Bush administration officials had gone missing. This sparked a long and contentious legal battle over the preservation of electronic records and the proper role of the government in doing so. The film features interviews with key players in the controversy, including former White House technology officials, that shed light on the complex technical and legal issues involved.

Another important theme of the film is the role of technology in changing the nature of legal practice. The film features interviews with several experts on e-discovery, the practice of using electronic records as evidence in legal proceedings. E-discovery has become an increasingly important tool in legal practice, but it also poses significant challenges to traditional notions of due process and legal ethics. The film explores these issues in depth, providing insights into how legal practice is evolving in response to the digital revolution.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of optimism about the potential of electronic records to promote transparency and accountability in government and society. However, there is also a recognition that these changes will not come without risks and challenges. The film concludes by highlighting some of the key lessons that have been learned from the development of the ERA and the broader shift to electronic records. These include the need for strong technical expertise, the importance of collaboration and cooperation between different stakeholders, and the need for ongoing vigilance and oversight to ensure that electronic records are being used in a responsible and ethical manner.

Overall, The Decade of Discovery is a fascinating and thought-provoking film that offers an in-depth look at the profound impact that electronic records are having on American society. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in technology, law, or the future of government and society in the digital age.

The Decade of Discovery is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute.