When companies use technology, such as a document scanner, to address business challenges, they are participating in digital transformation. Many organizations recognize the value of this transformation, and they are adopting greater and more in-depth digital strategies. This is what you should know about this trend and how scanning contributes.
Drivers of Digitization
Data is king in today’s business environment. Most businesses, especially those that compete on a national or global level, seek as much data as they can get their hands on. They use this information to build strategies, evaluate product and service offerings and track trends. To effectively compete, much less gain a competitive advantage, these organizations need to have key data at their fingertips at all times.
In addition, culture is driving digitization. Not only do companies need to address the climate change concerns of their target markets, but their internal customers, and their stakeholders, also drive digitization. They search for more effective ways to do their jobs and meet their customers’ needs. This trend is also a major driver of innovation.
The Right Scanner for You
To choose the scanner that will best fit the needs of a specific organization or individual, the first step is to define the type of digitization needed. Companies need to identify the type, size and number of documents that need to be scanned, which will be used to determine the minimum feeder capacity required for the task. Then, the amount of human resources time available should be considered because this will determine whether the company chooses a flatbed, handheld or feeder-styled scanner. Budget will also be a key issue.
Companies should also consider how quickly they need their documents scanned and the quality of digital files they require. Also, scanners come with software that should be compatible with the operating system the individual or business is using. Finally, executives should determine whether their scans are sent to the cloud, saved on a server or transferred to a memory card that connects to the device.
Home and Business
Both individuals and businesses can benefit from data digitization. Individuals may need a scanner for general office use as well as digitizing photos, magazine articles, books or other personal documents. In these cases, the number of items that needs digitized is limited and labor isn’t really an issue. Therefore, many individuals choose flatbed scanners.
Photographers may choose a higher-quality scanner. They often require higher dpi and more dynamic colors. They may also scan slides, film, photos, transparencies and negatives. Often, a professional-grade scanner is required. However, their effective use can be limited because they are not as effective for more routine uses.
Businesses often require high-volume scanners that have automatic feeders. These feeders also need to take in a number of different paper sizes and be able to recognize when the page size changes. They also typically have high feeder maximums so that employees aren’t consistently feeding them. These scanners are built for speed and volume.
As they implement their digitization strategy, individuals and companies should research all the available scanners that fit their needs. For example, those who need high-volume scanners should research ScanSnap products.
