To reduce the likelihood of catastrophic loss of irreplaceable information from disasters such as floods and fires by having additional copies of data and document sets at sites other than the primary site. Same reason as above. In its most basic form, it involves the conversion of existing paper or microfiche documents into computer readable form by using various scanning methods. Ease of data distribution. Once a CD-ROM is developed, i.e., filled with the desired images, text files and data, it can be copied and distributed to our regional offices, state libraries, the general public, the academic sector, consultants and other interested parties.
Faster information searches.
A well-designed imaging application carries an indexing system that permits rapid location of information. Productivity gains and improved service to the public would accrue. Since CD-ROMs have a shelf life estimated to exceed 100 years, they make excellent archival media. Despite their longevity, changing standards and market pressures to develop new and better equipment indicate that policies and methods must be developed to insure that data is migrated routinely to media currently supported by the industry. Since CD-ROMs are unchangeable after they are created, they have been accepted as evidence in courts of law.