The preservation of the parliamentary records in multiple formats poses important concerns, especially because of the need for effective policies, sound management practices, and the capacity to accommodate constantly evolving technologies. Different organizations within a parliament may have overlapping responsibilities for managing, distributing, and preserving its records, and it can sometimes be difficult to reconcile competing mandates. Potential conflicts may need to be resolved by the Secretary General or occasionally by higher authorities.

The World e-Parliament Report 2010 found that a substantial majority of parliament have programs for converting paper documentation into digital formats or are planning or considering them. Parliaments have also established or are considering establishing a policy for the preservation of their documentation in digital formats. Nearly half of parliaments that responded to the survey already maintain a digital archive. Parliaments reported that on average they have bills and plenary speeches in digital format for approximately half the years they have them available in any format.

These findings suggest that many parliaments are making progress in ensuring the preservation of their digital paper-based records. Substantial challenges lie ahead, however, especially as technology continues to improve and as more parliaments move toward operations that are primarily paperless and that involve records in multiple formats, including paper, audio, and video. Issues that must be addressed include designation of the official or legal record, integration and linking of records, policies regarding how long to preserve records in each format, and what technical approaches are the most cost effective for long term preservation of each format.