Retire the Stale

An old instruction keeps winning because it is easier to find than its replacement. Name the current version, remove obsolete copies from everyday use, and preserve only the history that still has a purpose.

Name the current. Mark the old. Redirect. Preserve needed history.

Retiring stale material changes which record is allowed to guide action. First establish that a replacement really is current. Then remove, label or redirect old copies wherever ordinary users encounter them. Archive necessary history separately, with dates and replacement links, so removing confusion does not erase useful evidence.

Try this when…

Someone followed the instructions we changed last month.

Search keeps showing the old form first.

I cannot tell whether this plan still applies.

We updated the document but not the copies people use.

What you can use it for

Changed procedures

Replace obsolete instructions at the actual points of use.

Revised plans

Keep current arrangements visible after participants agree on a change.

Reference collections

Separate superseded material from active resources while retaining useful provenance.