The Future of Microfilming

1. The Future of Microfilming

2. THE FUTURE OF MICROFILMING

3. Microfilming • For decades, companies have relied on microfilming technologies to preserve their important documents. • However, today’s digital world has brought the future of microfilming to a crossroads. • Newer, more affordable and easy-to-use alternatives have caused many businesses to reassess their options. • Unfortunately, microfilming has become a burdensome project for companies relying on it to protect their valuable information. • When compared to most digital document management equipment, microfilm equipment is pricey. • Furthermore, companies spend a good portion of their annual budgets maintaining and repairing this equipment.

4. Microfilming • Microfilming technology also takes an inordinate amount of time to manage. • For example, you won’t be able to quickly look something up on film. • Information will take a lot longer to retrieve than what you’re used to. • If an executive needs data prior to making a decision, company performance can be adversely affected. • Or if a customer is waiting for information stored on film, the delayed response will not bode well for your satisfaction levels. • These examples represent just a few challenges companies face with microfilm equipment. • The transition away from microfilming to digital document management solutions will only accelerate in the near future.

5. Microfilming WHY COMPANIES SWITCH FROM MICROFILM • When you compare the benefits and cost efficiencies of a document scanning and management solution, you’ll find it a very viable microfilming replacement. • These solutions can scan, index, archive and share your documents instantly. • Businesses switch from microfilming to digital document management for many reasons, some of which include: • You can retrieve information in seconds. • You don’t have to pay for costly maintenance and repair charges on outdated microfilming equipment. • Quality control isn’t delayed. Microfilming requires you to fill, process and inspect a roll before you determine if it contains errors or missing documents. • Workflow options on digital solutions allow you to automate manual business processes. • Digital solutions provide secure back-ups of information that are available to everyone. • You eliminate the office space previously devoted to storing microfilm equipment and paper files.

6. Microfilming WHAT MICROFILM REPLACEMENT SOLUTION SHOULD YOU GET? • A good microfilm alternative should be more than a basic search and retrieve software solution. • You should consider something more robust that includes outsourced back-file document scanning, document management software, customized workflow processes, businesses process management, existing systems integration and more. • Your selection should help you move from microfilming to digital quickly, easily and affordably. • A good solution must include a complete document management system, such as the hardware, software and training. • In terms of cost, the purchase or lease option will be significantly lower than a microfilm system costs to maintain each year. • The best way to migrate from microfilm to digital document management is to work with a professional document management company.

7. Microfilming WHAT MICROFILM REPLACEMENT SOLUTION SHOULD YOU GET? • If your organization is using dated microfilm technology to store, retrieve and archive important information, a proven provider can help upgrade your system. • Your goal is to make a smooth transition so you save time and resources. • MES Hybrid Document Systems is Canada's leading document scanning services company. • For nearly 40 years, MES Hybrid Document Systems have been providing document management and document scanning services in Ontario.

8. About the Author Kevin D'Arcy is VP of Sales and Marketing for MES Hybrid Document Systems, Ontario's leading document scanning and document management supplier. For more information about The Future of Microfilming, visithttp://www.mesltd.ca.