All scanning and OCR solutions share the goal of eliminating the manual handling of paper. Not every solution follows the same approach or provides equivalent functionality at each step in the process.
Back-end document and data capture scan documents at the end of the receipt-to-pay process for easy indexing and retrieval. Historically AP departments have used scanning solutions in this manner to eliminate physical storage, facilitate document retrieval for dispute resolution, audits and supplier inquiries. This method has largely been replaced by front-end imaging with electronic routing and approval.
Front-end document and data capture scan paper invoices remotely or at a central processing facility, upon receipt. Information is extracted from the invoice images, either manually or through automated data capture, to facilitate internal review and approval.
Front-end data capture is a big functional improvement from back-end imaging because it facilitates a genuine improvement in the invoice receipt-to-pay cycle. But as a mission critical process, capacity is critical to avoid bottlenecks.
There are two ways to extract data from these front-end OCR scans – manual and automated. Right now, the tally is running about 60/40 in favor of automation, and that lead is expected to widen as accuracy improves.
Download a free copy of the Data Capture for Accounts Payable report today to learn more about automated data capture and the benefits it can bring to your company.
