Smarter Week

How to automate it

How to automate “handle records and public information requests”

Here is the best way to spend less time on this, best first. Each comes with steps you can follow today.

60 min
typically, once a week
50%
of the time can be automated
Some setup
to set up

Fix 1 of 1

Software feature

Track records requests in request software with search and redaction tools

Public records software tracks deadlines, searches documents and helps with redaction, and publishes common requests so the same thing is not asked twice.

Typically saves about 40% of the time2 h to set up
  1. 1Ask whether your agency uses GovQA, NextRequest or JustFOIA.
  2. 2Log every request there, not in email.
  3. 3Use the built-in search and redaction tools (many now have AI-assisted redaction); review every redaction yourself.
  4. 4Publish frequently requested records online.

Tools: GovQA · NextRequest · JustFOIA

Who does this task

Roles in our library that list this as one of their common tasks. Each guide covers the rest of that role’s week.

Government caseworker / clerk

HourLeak · the 8-minute work audit

How many hours does this cost you?

The free 8-minute check works out where your week goes and gives you your top fixes. The team scan does the same for everyone and adds it up, so you know which leaks to fix first.

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Answers are anonymous. Leaders only see team totals.

Other common tasks for Government caseworkers / clerks