What is forms capture?
The forms capture process uses intelligent character recognition (ICR), optical character recognition (OCR) and optimal mark recognition (OMR) to extract required data from documents. The purpose of forms capture technology is to reduce keystrokes, increase data accuracy and automate data entry. Forms capture is a necessitated when the more labor hours are dedicated to data input than to order processing.
Forms capture occurs within structured forms and unstructured forms. There are two key form types, preprinted forms or paper based forms and electronic forms.
After paper forms are completed and returned to you electronically, OCR and OMR document imaging technology intelligently processes these documents. OCR reads hand written and machine printed text, while OMR reads bubbles and check boxes. Bar code recognition is also supported. Completed forms can be returned by fax to your fax server, or scanned using high speed scanners. Images are deskewed, oriented upright, scaled to 100% original size, and even despeckled for optimum viewing and recognition. Verifier personnel spend a fraction of the time ensuring data is 100% accurate before exporting it to your business database system. Additional processes, such as order confirmation, order fulfillment, and sales rep notification may be triggered based on data collected,.
Forms can be published to interactive HTML pages and to interactive PDF forms using the same form definitions as paper forms. PDF forms can be sent by e-mail, or downloaded by a web browser, filled out, and faxed back to your system. All forms automatically include properties, such as pull-down choices, and features, such as data validation. Therefore, electronic forms are typically 100% accurate and require no human intervention. Additional processes, such as order confirmations, order fulfillment, and sales rep notification, may be triggered by the data collected from the form. Even when a form is published in preprinted format, as an HTML document, or as a PDF document, all data collected is treated the same way and processed using the same workflow and exporting rules. Forms can also be automatically archived (even if electronic), and can cause other processes to occur based on your business rules for true automation, such as e-mail or fax response fulfillment.
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