Unless all the steps operate efficiently, the system will not work. You should, then, expect to spend a great deal of time planning the document workflow and training your personnel. Because this is a complex operation, you should implement a sample or test project to see how it will work in practice before committing yourself to any particular system. The first step, then, is to evaluate the material, record its arrival and label it for processing. For the last, a document identification number for an individual record or a bar code for a file may help to keep track of the material and guarantee access as it moves through the system.
Preparation is an unavoidable, labor intensive step in the imaging process.
It could involve any number of tasks. Usually, all staples, paper clips, etc., need to be removed. All documents have to be examined, with oversize, colored or damaged sheets earmarked for special attention. It is important to note that trained personnel, with a good working knowledge of your office's functions, are vital to this step. Indexing is all important.