Advantages of Scanning Technologies

Speed Of Processing:
Data from forms or questionnaires that might take 3 to 5 minutes to manually enter can be scanned in seconds. This includes multi-page and double-sided forms. KMI has multiple workstations that can scan over 65 pages per minute (simplex), or 130 pages a minute (duplex).

Accuracy:
When it comes to mark-sense fields (filling in the bubble) our accuracy is virtually 100%. The only errors that may occur would be related to respondents completing the form incorrectly. Accuracy rates for character recognition fields will depend on the neatness of the printing.

Costs:
Scanning forms will always be a more economical approach than manual data entry. There are four costs associated with the scanning and data capture process:

• Converting an existing form to a scannable format, with no modifications, or creating an original form can be negotiated on a case-by-case basis. This is a one-time expenditure
• Scanning and verifying forms, including the verification of both marksense and character recognition fields. These per-form costs are based on the number of pages, the total number of questions, and number of character recognition fields
• Developing a database or spreadsheet (eg. as SPSS or Excel files). This one-time cost is based on the size of the files
• Exporting datasets or spreadsheets. These can either be sent as email attachments or, for more sensitive data, we can deliver the files on CD for local clients, or send the file by bonded courier

Flexibility:
The scanning process can be used to track inventory; human resource processes such as timesheets, expense accounts, sick leave; and to undertake data capture for questionnaires or organization’s intake, assessment and exit forms. KMI has scanned one-page forms, and 29-page surveys.