Implementing document, workflow and content systems
It's Never Been So Easy!
I just received an email from one of our software suppliers. It
announced a new integration tool and networked desktop scanner
capability bundled with this software package:
"Now this special integration makes it easy to put the software
and the scanner together to offer a comprehensive information
management solution. Businesses can upload documents directly to
the ECM system right from the scanner itself simplifying
information management and retrieval. It's never been so easy."
Now, I've been in this industry for over 19 years and have often
wondered, if it's so easy, why aren't more people doing it?
The answer is simple. What we at AMC have found is that a lot of
companies are still relying on paper processes because nobody in
the organization "owns" the task of finding a better way. And
even if there is a champion of finding a better way, it's harder
than you'd think to educate everyone to be on the same page
(sorry for the pun) when it comes to improving workflow
processes.
A lot of Electronic Content Management (ECM) applications are
much more than just a scanner hooked up to a data repository.
There is image processing, workflow planning, and retention
schedules that also need to be addressed. Actually, when it
comes down to it, implementing such a system may not be terribly
technical, but it is extremely detailed. And, as they say, the
devil is in the details.
So what does this mean for you, the user? Before jumping at a
particular solution, decide what you really need, and then
execute. Do you need a true workflow solution, or will an OCR
(Optical Character Recognition) application solve your needs?
Don't go overboard on a networked multi-function device if you
occasionally just need to scan something on a small desktop
scanner. But if your scanning needs include archiving and
sharing across your organization - then look beyond that desktop
scanner.
So yes, implementing scanning, workflow and content management
solutions can be easy - if you have assessed your needs & have a
handle on the details. AMC can help, and I'll even make it
simple for you to reach me if you want to learn more. Just hit
the reply button and put in the subject line "simplify my life!"
Or drop me an email at
mzecy@americanmicrokc.com.