Going paperless is easier with new imaging products
By Cathy Enochs
Technology Representative – Great Lakes Region
Since the 1980's we have heard about how wonderful and easy it would be to "go paperless." However, as we’ve witnessed technology advancing over the years, there hasn’t been a decrease in paper production. That is, until now. New imaging products are changing the way companies operate, and the paperless workplace we’ve been imagining is truly beginning to materialize.
Imaging allows documents, photos, graphics, and forms to be stored, organized and managed electronically. There are several imaging technologies. The most widely used are scanning, storage and retrieval systems. Scanning, with which you’re probably familiar, is a method of loading text from paper documents into an imaging system. Low-end scanners, usually desktop models, depend on thorough document preparation and manual feeding. High-end models use sophisticated software that needs less document preparation and converts text more accurately.
Storage and retrieval software manages the organization, storage and access to electronic documents. With this software, imaging systems allow users to access the information they need based on specified search criteria. For example after scanning in a series of claims documents, the software could make the information available by date, location, type of claim or insured (or whatever criteria you select).
Many imaging products are offered in today's market, from off-the-shelf technology to professional consultants who will design, install and provide in-house employee training. ProImage, ImageRight, eteck, Acrosoft and Cannon are some of the brands to choose from.
Imaging products cost $2,000- $40,000 or more. Many businesses justify the expense by the savings in paper, postage and increased productivity, which typically more than pay for the product. For example, the scanning technology drastically cuts data entry time, and the software allows employees to seamlessly receive, review, fax, e-mail and track documents directly from their desktop.
Imaging technologies can be designed for the smallest agency to a multi-state carrier, such as General Casualty. General Casualty recently implemented ImageRight, an automated workflow system that handles all personal lines business in the new Consolidated Processing Center (CPC). All new business and endorsements are scanned into selective folders and enter the workflow the same day they are received. The Company expects that this imaging and automated workflow technology will enhance the quality of business and service to agents across the country.
Imaging and electronic filing is here, it works, and it’s an essential technology for creating the paperless workplace of the future.
About the author: Cathy Enochs serves as a technology representative for General Casualty Insurance Companies, working with independent insurance agents in Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. She has a CIC designation and an associate degree in insurance technology. She joined General Casualty in 1987 and has experience as an interface coordinator and personal lines processing manager.
For more information please contact Anne M. Smith.