Ever since the advent of the computer revolution, people on the cutting edge of technology have touted the benefits of a paperless office. Within the past ten years, technological advances in computing and networking have dramatically changed the way we do business, and now more than ever, that goal seems within reach. It may be tempting to bid farewell to the stacks of papers on your desk, but before you turn on that shredder, take the time to weigh the pros and cons of implementing a paperless system.
Going paperless is a great way to have more cash on hand. In addition to the obvious reduction in costs of office supplies, switching to a paperless system for your billing gives you the opportunity to build an automated billing system, ensuring that there are no delays in invoicing. However, building these systems and the underlying infrastructure needed to run them will cost money upfront. If you’re serious about making the switch, be prepared to make the investment.
In addition to the investment of cash, it also takes a significant investment in time to get your paperless office running. Although new documents can be created digitally for easy access, documents created prior to the transition will need to be digitized (you can do this in-house or through a number of reputable digitization services). Your employees will also need to undergo training on the new system.
Keep in mind that switching to a paperless office is not an all-or-nothing proposition. You may find that one department in your business is ready, while another may never be. No two businesses are alike, so move in the direction that makes sense for you.
Going paperless is a great way to have more cash on hand. In addition to the obvious reduction in costs of office supplies, switching to a paperless system for your billing gives you the opportunity to build an automated billing system, ensuring that there are no delays in invoicing. However, building these systems and the underlying infrastructure needed to run them will cost money upfront. If you’re serious about making the switch, be prepared to make the investment.
In addition to the investment of cash, it also takes a significant investment in time to get your paperless office running. Although new documents can be created digitally for easy access, documents created prior to the transition will need to be digitized (you can do this in-house or through a number of reputable digitization services). Your employees will also need to undergo training on the new system.
Keep in mind that switching to a paperless office is not an all-or-nothing proposition. You may find that one department in your business is ready, while another may never be. No two businesses are alike, so move in the direction that makes sense for you.
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