3 strategies to reduce paper dependency

In the digital transformation race, dependence on paper records could determine whether your business thrives or just survives. The difference between trying to sort through 500 files in a box to find a crucial piece of information and making a quick query on easily accessible digital data is tangible. Real dollars and business results are at stake.

A common business goal is to move from paper to digital records. The benefits are clear and measurable. Access to business information can be quick and targeted to enable better innovation and customer service. Faster, more-informed decision-making converts opportunities into revenue as new products and services can capitalise on emerging trends and deliver positive bottom-line results.

A shift to digital records does not have to be overwhelming. In reality, very few organisations can jump from the physical to the digital in one-step and must manage a hybrid records model.

However, some simple strategies can reduce reliance on paper records and promote digital uptake:

• Engagement in the paperless office can be encouraged by de-cluttering work areas of file cabinets and printers.

  This simple yet effective measure sends a clear message about the management mindset.

• Re-visit legacy records management policies and replace media-agnostic policies with those specifying digital requirements

  Determine and outline why electronic records best meet business requirements and goals. Let end users, the people who look for documents every day, embrace the initiative.

• Re-design business processes to make them “paper unfriendly” and “digital friendly”.

  Think back to when airlines decided to go paperless. Customers were charged for buying paper tickets but not when they purchased electronic tickets. What steps could your business take?

As the business landscape evolves, Iron Mountain is helping organisations navigate the journey from paper to digital, and everything in-between.