Which of the following best describes an electronic record?

An electronic record is best described as a record created, generated, transmitted, received, or stored electronically. This encompasses a wide range of formats and uses, including documents created in word processing software, emails, spreadsheet files, and data captured through electronic forms. The defining characteristic of an electronic record is that it relies on digital technology for any of its life cycle stages, making it distinct from traditional paper records or other formats that do not utilize electronic means.

The other choices lack the breadth necessary to accurately describe what constitutes an electronic record. For example, records created on a physical medium are inherently non-electronic, and records generated without the use of technology do not qualify as electronic at all. Meanwhile, suggesting that only records sent via email represents too narrow a scope, as electronic records can exist in various forms beyond those that are sent through email. Hence, the comprehensive nature of option C captures the essence of what an electronic record truly is.