The Benefits of Paperless Search & Retrieval

In days past, finding information needed to complete everyday tasks required travelling to a file storage room, searching through filing cabinets, and scouring multiple documents to locate specific information.

Then came the paperless office.

Going paperless and utilizing document management software has revolutionized the way we store, manage, and use important documents. It’s been a complete game-changer for offices large and small—and has completely revolutionized the document search and retrieval process.

Now, paperless search and retrieval options helps streamline operations and boost efficiency. Through the creation of a unified knowledge base, businesses can now enjoy seamless access to their documents with enhanced security and convenience.

But what is paperless search and retrieval, why is it important, and how can it benefit us?

What is Paperless Search & Retrieval?

At its core, paperless search and retrieval refers to the practice of using an electronic document management system (EDMS) to find and access documents in a digital format.

An EDMS offers many useful options for improved search and retrieval, such as a robust paperless filing system, automated meta-tagging, and the ability to search text contained within images of documents. You simply enter words or phrases into a search box and swiftly retrieve the desired document.

What is a Single Source of Truth?

One of the most important functions of an EDMS is providing a Single Source of Truth (SSOT). With an SSOT, all of your organizational information exists within a unified electronic document storage system. It hosts your master data—all of the information you’ll ever need to complete a task—all in one place.

Instead of searching through Slack messages, Google Drive, and external hard drives to find a required document or piece of data, an SSOT requires only one simple search. This enables immediate access to data, ensures uniformity of knowledge, and improves business decision-making.

The Problem with Physical Paper

The traditional paper-based filing system comes with an array of challenges.

First, there are the physical space requirements. Physical paper gets stored in bulky file cabinets, which take up crucial office space.

Then, there are the monetary expenses: leasing extra storage space; maintaining printers’ buying paper, ink, and other accessories; and increasing labor to maintain storage equipment.

Most importantly, physical paper can reduce productivity and efficiency. Locating specific documents can take time. Paper is vulnerable to physical deterioration and destruction. Human error could result in misplaced documents. Recreating those misplaced documents wastes time workers could use accomplishing more important tasks.

On top of all that, if multiple versions of a document exist, it can be difficult to tell which contains the most up-to-date information.

Benefits of Paperless Search & Retrieval

Moving towards an electronic document management system offers a host of compelling benefits over physical paper. Some of the most common benefits of using a paperless search and retrieval option include:

Enhanced Efficiency

One of the most striking advantages of paperless search and retrieval is the efficiency it offers. You can search for a document or multiple files swiftly using keywords or meta-tags, saving valuable time that would otherwise be spent manually locating them.

Unified Knowledge Base

A singular, cloud-based “data warehouse” ensures that your entire team has access to all of the same information in one place. Whether they’re working remotely or in the office, each team member knows where to find the document they need—and they can access it immediately.

Streamlined Version Control

Version control is imperative for effective data management. Each document can have multiple versions stored in the system, with the ability to revert to a previous version if needed. Version control also prioritizes the most recent version of a document. That way, no matter how many versions of a document exist, your team can easily find the version with the most up-to-date information.

Improved Collaboration

With an SSOT, your team can find all the information they need with one simple search. This can help improve file sharing when collaborating. And because it’s all housed digitally, your team can modify documents together in real-time, fostering efficient and effective teamwork.

Robust Security

If paperless, cloud-based search and retrieval sounds ripe for security risks, don’t worry! An EDMS typically comes equipped with stringent security measures. These include encryption, access control mechanisms, and automatic backups, offering a robust shield against potential data breaches.

So, your team can always access the documents they need—but you can control what information they can see, monitor who’s accessed a document, and track any changes they may have made.

Eco-Friendly

Last but not least, going paperless improves environmental sustainability. With reduced paper usage, your business practices align with global eco-friendly initiatives, contributing to the conservation of our environment.

Ready to go paperless and secure your data? Contact Us

Addressing the Challenges of Multiple Sources

In traditional setups, documents are often scattered across multiple sources. This can lead to a lack of uniformity and cause delays in accessing critical information.

Worst of all, having multiple sources of information can create insurmountable data silos. For instance, each department might have its own drive containing its needed information. If another department requires those documents, they may not know where to find it. Even more, the drive could be password-protected or access controlled, making it completely inaccessible to outside departments.

An SSOT eliminates this problem by housing all of your business intelligence in one, easily-accessible place.

Integrating a Paperless System

Successfully implementing a paperless system requires careful planning and strategy. Here are some steps you could consider:

1. Assess Current Processes: Understand your current filing system and document usage patterns. Identify the key challenges and areas where improvements can be made.
2. Choose the Right EDMS: There are multiple EDMS options available. Each offers different features and capabilities. You should select a system that best aligns with your business requirements and workflows.
3. Implement Gradually: Transitioning to a paperless system doesn’t have to be abrupt. Gradual implementation allows your team to adjust to the new system slowly, thus ensuring smoother adaptation.
4. Train Your Team: The successful use of a paperless system hinges on how effectively your team can utilize it. Consider investing time in training your team on using the new system.

Optimizing Your Paperless System for Maximum Benefits

Once your paperless system is in place, it’s crucial to optimize it to reap the full range of benefits. Here are some helpful tips for optimizing your paperless system:

1. Use Meta-tags: Meta-tags are a powerful tool that can simplify the process of searching for files. Tagging your electronic documents with relevant keywords or phrases can significantly reduce the time it takes to locate a specific file.
2. Leverage Advanced Search: Most EDMS come with an advanced search option. By learning to use these capabilities, you can streamline your document retrieval process further.
3. Regularly Review and Update Your System: Technology evolves at a rapid pace, and it’s crucial to keep your system up-to-date to leverage the latest features and security measures.

Addressing Common Concerns about Going Paperless

While the benefits of a paperless system are significant, some concerns often arise, such as:

1. Security and Data Breaches: While it’s true that digital files can be susceptible to cyber threats, most EDMS offer robust security features, such as encryption and secure access controls. Moreover, physical documents are not immune to threats such as theft or damage.
2. Technical Difficulties: Transitioning to a new system often comes with a learning curve. However, most EDMS providers offer comprehensive training and support to help your team overcome any technical challenges.
3. Cost: While implementing a paperless system comes with an upfront cost, it’s an investment that will pay off in the long run through increased efficiency and reduced expenses on paper, printers, and storage space.