What characteristic defines records in final format?

Records in final format are characterized by being officially signed and officially released. This means that they have undergone all necessary reviews and approvals, making them authoritative and valid for use as reference material or documentation. The signing process indicates that the responsible parties have vetted and verified the contents of the record, ensuring its accuracy and compliance with organizational or legal standards.

Once released, these records become part of the permanent record-keeping system and are accessible to authorized individuals or entities. This official release emphasizes their importance and confirms that they should not be changed, which is critical for maintaining an accurate and trustworthy record. Thus, the defining characteristics of final format records ensure that they serve their intended purpose effectively, providing a reliable source of information that stakeholders can depend on.