The information explosion has created a records explosion.
Companies keep records indefinitely to protect themselves against litigation.
Ironically, however, they end up supporting their adversaries' cases with subpoenaed information that should have been destroyed long ago. And they discard records that should be retained. It's the selective retention or destruction that gets companies into legal hot water. Also, consider the costs of space, staff, equipment and supplies for unnecessary or risky records. Then add the need to readily access valuable and current information.