In a high-volume paper conversion, there are benefits to creating microfilm from the documents first, then scanning the microfilm. You can view it as a best of both worlds scenario; the hard copy security of microfilm and the convenience of electronic images, and conversion costs are lower in the long run, and here's why:

1. Capturing images from paper onto microfilm is very fast and inexpensive. Many mIcrofilm cameras are already in use and easily procured, so the investment is negligible. Microfilm cameras are faster, less expensive and more portable than paper scanning.

2. Scanning MIcrofilm automatically is very very fast- up to 3,600 images per hour. That's equal to the output of two sheet fed microfilmers, and up to six planetary-type cameras.

3. The combined cost of filming the paper, then automatically scanning the film is less than scanning the paper directly. The price from many microfilm bureaus for 16mm microfilm ranges from 2 cents to 5 cents per frame. The cost of scanning microfilm (counting one full-time operator and a five year lease on the equipment) works out to around 2 cents per frame. Therefore, you get both film and bitmapped images for between 4 and 7 cents per frame. The same job by a typical service bureau would be between 7 and 15 cents a frame. Why? Labor costs, mostly.

4. The value of the backup microfilm in a document conversion is difficult to determine. If disaster occurs and the electronic media is lost, damaged, or the system used to view the images cannot be repaired, a microfilm backup can be easily converted.

5. Sad but true: Microfilm is legally accepted throughout the world as an archival copy. Optical discs have not fully reached this status. Having a microfilm conversion allows you to destroy the paper originals. The cost of the space the paper occupied can be added to the system savings.

6. Automatic microfilm and microfilm scanners can do the conversion from film to digital practically hands free.

As you can see, dual conversion is a practical way to foolproof your records storage needs. Contact us today for further information about this valuable records management tool.