How is document processing carried out?

David Archiving, Communication, Organisation

Document processing is the conversion of physical documents – whether already typed and printed, or hand-written – into electronic ones. This is achieved by a variety of means, including just scanning and conversion to pdf, optical character recognition and intelligent character recognition, amongst others. The advantage of this is that the files created as a result can be moved to a document management system, allowing for far greater flexibility in their later use, sharing and so on. It can also be used to transform invoice processing, so that instead of manual copies being made the whole system can be automated – with benefits in terms of efficiency, time scales and accounting.

Document processing has come a long way in the last decade or so. Before, there was no reasonable way for physical letters and memos to be turned to Word documents; instead the best that could be achieved was a scanned picture. These took up a lot of disk space (at a time when storage was more costly and far more limited) and, of course, could not be edited. Now, optical character recognition (OCR) has come of age. Intelligent character recognition (ICR) is a progression of this, and can even be used to understand handwriting and turn it into an electronic file. This generally uses a neural network and ‘learns’ to understand handwriting as it goes along. This means that first results may be quite poor, although when the system is properly ‘taught’ it can lead to 97 percent accuracy – with obvious efficiencies to enjoy, especially if such documents would usually be transcribed by employees.

The nature and sophistication of document processing that you choose will depend on your budget and needs of your company – obviously a smaller outfit with fewer documents will probably not benefit from the most expensive and extensive form of ICR. However, document management is an important step in bridging the gap between past practices and truly paperless offices. Although emails are easily the most popular form of written communication, plenty of people still use notes and letters, and many documents are sent through the post. These can all-too-easily be lost or mislaid if they are not carefully tracked. The same is true of invoices, but invoice processing can bring your procedures for paper invoices in line with those submitted by bacs and other electronic means. This makes for far greater efficiency and fewer mistakes.

Please visit http://www.bottomline.co.uk/ for further information about this topic.

Coach hire London: see the city in style

David Transport

Luxury coach hire is a great alternative to travelling separately in cars or using public transport if you have a big group of people. Costs shoot up when you multiply the number of vehicles travelling together, not to mention the logistical problems of making sure that everyone gets to the destination at the same time. Consequently, coach hire london can be a good alternative – even with a relatively low number of people going, it becomes economically viable. Meeting centrally and travelling together misses many of the problems inherent in large group outings, and the cost savings mean that suddenly a list of new options become worth thinking about. A luxury coach will come with air conditioning, comfortable seats, movies and refreshments – more like a flight than a typical coach ride. Plus, you have the peace of mind that comes with a qualified and experienced driver (or drivers, for long journeys). That means no one has to think about being the designated driver – an important point if you are, for example, hoping to celebrate an away team’s victory. For smaller groups, minibus hire can be way to travel together and save money.

Although coach drivers require a special licence, anyone with a normal licence can hire and drive a minibus. This can make it a more flexible option; if you don’t know how long you will be away or when you will leave to come home, or need to save money on a driver, then hiring a minibus for groups of up to 15 or so might be a better bet. Coaches really only come into their own when you have larger numbers of people, which decreases the cost.

Coach hire london is one of the best ways to see the city, since you can travel in comfort and let someone else do the navigating. If you are travelling further afield, perhaps to France, then organising a coach and drivers is one of the best and cheapest ways to do it – as well as having a much lower eco footprint than catching a plane. Luxury coach hire is well worth the higher cost when it comes to such long journeys – if you are spending more than a few hours on board then you will want all the creature comforts you can get. Minibus hire is ideal for shorter journeys, although if you are prepared to split the driving between different members of the bus then it can be a very cheap way of holidaying abroad.

Please visit http://www.goldenboy.co.uk/ for further info.

London schoolwear supplier – helping you stay peaceful

Paul Clothing, Scools

The new school year naturally means a new round of school clothes shopping. School uniforms play a valuable role in making sure pupils dress the same way and creating a shared identity around their education, but for parents school uniforms can be a perennial stress. The requirements can be quite strict and slogging around all the shops to make it happen is time-consuming and boring. With children in tow it can become a form of torture for all of you, not helped by the fact that everyone is likely to be doing it at the same time. This means the shops are busy and you have the risk of getting there, only to find they have sold out of certain items. A London schoolwear supplier that operates online can help you avoid most of the pitfalls associated with this time of year.

Some people are wary about buying school clothes on the web, and it may be that particular pieces of uniform are best bought in person. But the vast majority of clothes can be purchased without undue problems – just as you might well consider ordering clothes for yourself from the online store of any number of high street shops. As long as you know what sizes to purchase there is no reason to worry. And, if it turns out that the clothes you ordered do not fit properly, you can simply return them and either get a refund or have them replaced in the required size.

What this means is that a process that might have taken a full day or more (depending on the number of children you have and how much they have grown in the holidays) can be carried out in the comfort of your own home with no more hassle than comes from checking their measurements and shoe sizes. Not only that, but shopping online is often less expensive, and there’s less chance of things running out. High street stores have limited space, whereas online shops don’t have such limitations.

Finally, as well as school clothes you can also buy stationary and other equipment from your typical online London schoolwear supplier. One of the best features is that you can have your school uniforms and other items delivered where you want it – including to the school. So, if there has been a terrible last-minute rush, or you are not sure that the package will arrive in time for your children to wear the clothes, have them delivered direct to the school instead.

Please visit http://www.uniform4kids.com/

Bacs are unbeatable where efficient payments are concerned

Paul Software

Whether you have a small business, a multinational or a not-for-profit operation, accounts will be a consistent concern. The successful commercial outfit and the independent start-up may have different things to think about: the one perhaps looking to increase its profit margin and buy into new territories while the other assesses whether it can afford to pay more staff. Certain principles will be relevant to both ends of the business scale, however, such as the positive benefits of bacs. Bacs payments, originally Bankers’ Automated Clearing Services, are the most efficient payment solution yet to be found. Transfers can be cleared instantly meaning that companies can be in the know about the real state of their balance instead of wondering what has been processed and what remains to be paid. Of course, there will be times where your cash-flow is not sufficient for payments to be made as soon as invoices are received. In these instances, bacs software will help you make a schedule for your future payments and keep a record of all previous transactions.

While large businesses might have further complications calling for an accountant to oversee the software, smaller operations will often allow an efficient computerised system to do the bulk of the work. When the time comes to submit an accounts summary to the tax man, you will simply be able to press print and all your incomings and outgoings will be made crystal clear. Thus the end of the tax year will no longer be a time to hold in fear: hopefully it will mark a date where you can rate your progress and beginning making plans anew.

Errors are rarely made when bacs payments are processed with dedicated bacs software. Therefore, in the first year after changing to efficient bacs methods, you might even see your profits rise. This is because duplicate payments and loss of data can be eliminated with bacs. If you thought you couldn’t afford another employee, your savings might offer a pleasant surprise: perhaps you will be able to grow your business after all. Meanwhile, your existing workforce will be happy that their invoices or salaries are being paid on time. And because happy staff are glad to be at work, bacs might indirectly help to increase your company’s productivity. Increased visibility, transparency, security and control cannot be valued highly enough in the currently difficult economic climate. When budgets are strict, bacs will really perform.

Please visit http://www.bottomline.co.uk/ for further information about this topic.

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Powerpoint design re-conceived

Mary Meetings

powerpoint design has something of a notorious reputation: ‘Death by Powerpoint’ is by now a familiar phrase among office workers who have had to endure countless meetings and presentations in which someone more senior than them takes it upon him or herself to deliver a stream of information that does little more than raise a yawn. Indeed, when that phrase was invented by Angela R. Garber it spoke to a wide audience who had simply had enough of being treated in this patronising way. In Switzerland last year, the Anti PowerPoint Party formed, vowing to decrease the use of Powerpoint amid claims that it decreased the quality of presentations in 95% of cases. This party advanced the revival of the flipchart as a way of getting us more engaged with information again. This would perhaps signal a reactionary move too far the other way, however; the Swiss party might rather look at instructing people how to use Powerpoint presentations more effectively. After all, sales presentations delivered on a flip chart would most probably be deemed deficient in images in this day and age.

In 2012 it has been estimated that some of us look at between 5-7000 images per day, most of them on our laptops. A figure like this suggests that it would simply be anachronistic to revert back to drawing diagrams and messages with pen and paper. What’s more, you cannot make simple transitions to film clips when you’re using a flip chart, while you absolutely can, seamlessly, With Powerpoint. It is time to focus on how we use Powerpoint, then, not whether we use it or not. Perhaps the most crucial thing to recall is that this piece of commercial software is merely a tool, not a thing with a fixed usage. Granted, it is not easy to remember this, given that we’ve been conditioned to experience Powerpoint used unimaginatively. But it is possible to change our ways for the better.

We might start improving our Powerpoint presentations by thinking about how we take in information on our screens. Just take a moment, next time you are reading an article online or watching a YouTube clip, to assess whether you are taking in what you are seeing, whether you are enthused by the content, and whether you could improve on your habits in any way. All of these considerations will feed usefully into your intentions for improved powerpoint design and sales presentations.

Please visit http://www.eyefulpresentations.co.uk/ for further information about this topic.

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Document management systems are the only way forward

Paul Business, Communication

In a century where technological advancements are (almost) breaking the speed of light, inventing intelligent robots and making world wide connectivity a reality, it makes no sense to still be scrabbling around in filing cabinets looking for that important document placed there five or ten years ago. If space travel is now a possibility, document processing should be a breeze. document management systems gather all important information into a central pool which can be made accessible to all your employees. It’s not rocket science, but using a DMS to optimise all operations from customer service to invoice processing will not only save you money but make it go further, and send your business soaring.

All too often, information is trapped in separate email exchanges or even in individuals’ heads. By tweaking your processes, all of this useful data can be utilised and subsequently becomes an asset to your company. Once this data is collated into an electronic library, employees can use indexing, archiving and full text search functions to navigate thousands of files. Daily internal operations will be made more effective, and the ability of your company to provide a high level of customer service will be increased. This is thanks to the electronically gathered material from which target audience data can be quickly and accurately pulled. All of your operations will gain in promptness and professionalism.

More than this, DMS systems can produce very tangible improvements to your company’s financial processes. As already mentioned, centralising your resources makes the most of its asset value. Reliable invoice processing makes the most of your working capital, helps to prevent against duplicate or overdue payments, and improves cash flow. Finally, the costs of paper storage facilities are removed as digitising information hugely reduces the space needed to store all this data.

Security improvements are another benefit. On-paper vulnerability to fire, flood, theft and vandalism and over-handling are a thing of the past, thanks to data retrieval facilities. Regulatory compliance is another advantage of increased security and centralised control as DMS files are extremely trackable and the chances of withdrawn licenses or legal action are correspondingly reduced.

To implement document management systems within your organisation, look for an experienced provider to advise you on how best to optimise routine but necessary tasks. Enabling shareability and integration across your business, document processing systems increase professionalism and value, optimise security and control, and save money. Leave your competitors to labour over manual, non-electronic invoice processing. Installing DMS will bring your business up to date, make significant savings, and raise your level of professionalism.

Please visit http://www.bottomline.co.uk/ for further information about this topic.

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Investing in ICT infrastructure will always make sound returns

Paul Business, Internet, Technology

Putting in a comprehensive ICT infrastructure, whether you are a business park, small community or rural estate, will always give more back than you put in. In a fast-changing technological world, Next Generation Access is a requisite to ensure that data is transmitted rapidly enough to keep up. Recent developments in community broadband mean that no area need be without internet access.

In terms of profitability, the revenue from ICT services is second only to rents for business and science park operators. Look for an authoritative provider who can advise on the most suitable implementation of ICT infrastructure for tenants. The commercial strategy will take into account business objectives and deliver a meticulous project plan informed by their expertise. Investments in state-of-the-art ICT services and upgrades can make all the difference to the effectiveness and professionalism of the companies who use this infrastructure.

For rural estates, these sorts of services need not be inaccessible. Try to find a provider with expertise in this particular field. A effective strategy is to cluster together isolated residents and local businesses in order to construct a sustainable Next Generation Access broadband service. Not only does this benefit and upgrade the present ICT infrastructure, but offers a useful second source of income, and a sound return on investment. Rather like water, electricity and other utilities, broadband access is not something a community can very well do without – it is closer to being a requirement than an add-on.

Since the first loop unbundling in the 1990s, community broadband access has grown and grown. Remote communities across the world have profited from ICT communication and become connected to the world outside in hugely constructive ways. Building internet access delivers economic growth and boosts local industry. Information is made available easily and freely, and all sorts of other local services benefit, including health and education. Getting the best available services to augment your area’s connectivity is more than possible with a trustworthy provider.

Whether you are a multi-tenanted business property or far-removed rural community, making state-of-the-art ICT infrastructure a top priority will only enhance your organisation or area. For businesses, a highly resilient Next Generation Access broadband with a number of service providers may well give them a competitive boost. Co-operative outsourcing of Community broadband projects often provides a answer of the highest technical quality and dependability. Whatever your situation, don’t be distant from technology. Bring your ICT infrastructure up-to-date and accept the economic rewards of your investment.

Please visit http://www.broadbandvantage.co.uk/ for further information about this topic.

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Minibus hire means that no group size cannot be accommodated

Paul Holiday, Rental, Transport

When organising a trip or event involving more people than will fit in a car, turn to coach hire London for a simple solution. The option of minibus hire ensures that even if your group is small, there will be a vehicle that works for you. What is more, choosing a luxury coach hire service will make your event or trip that little bit more special.

If a trip or event entails a good deal of travelling for a significant number of people, then choosing to travel by coach will make a potentially boring journey enjoyable. Firstly, travelling by coach means you can leave the driving safely in the hands of a CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) certified driver, often trained at in-house facilities and given an enhanced CRB check. Not only this, but a dependable coach hire service will have maintenance staff on duty for twenty-four hours in case of problems. Therefore you can embark and enjoy the company of your friends.

Secondly, your journey by coach will have the advantages of on-board facilities such as air conditioning – so you are cool whatever the weather – drinks machines, hi-fi systems and TV screens. Why travel any other way when these luxuries are available – and for a reasonable price too?

Thirdly, compared to other forms of travel, coach journeys have many perks. Unlike trains or buses, a coach hire service does not have a rigid timetable, and will wait until all passengers have boarded. Coach hire works out much more affordably than taxi fares, especially when there is a large group of people travelling. When it comes to overseas travel, a coach may be preferable to flying because it takes out the trouble of arranging travel links each side of the airport. For door-to-door service, coach travel is unbeatable.

Finally, you can rest assured that safety is the top concern for luxury coach hire companies, who carry out risk assessments for all operational activities. Furthermore, a policy of ongoing investment in vehicles provides an up-to-date, high quality, modernised fleet. Coach hire London is conveniently positioned in the very heart of the country, perfect for your requirements however long or short, near or far your trip. Even if you’re a group of five or six friends who want to go out on the town without worrying about driving home, minibus hire is the answer. Travel by coach for a journey that’s about more than getting from A to B.

Please visit http://www.goldenboy.co.uk/ for further information about this topic.

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Hunting for a London schoolwear supplier?

Paul Clothing, Education

School uniforms can be expensive and, due to your children’s tendency to grow at inopportune points, short-lived. There is a certain amount of economy that can be made by passing school clothes on from one child to another, and even around groups of friends. But ultimately you’re going to have to bite the bullet at some point and purchase some new ones. Sometimes you won’t get much notice. For instance, if the weather turns cold sooner than you expected, you might find that you need to buy coats and hats before you expect it. Or perhaps a vital piece of clothing gets lost or irretrievably torn. In these instances a good online London schoolwear supplier can be worth its weight in gold.

Shopping online for what you need can be a very welcome change from trailing around the shops with an unwilling child. Naturally there are some caveats. You need to be sure that what you are buying will fit. The easiest way to do this is to find a similar item of clothing that your child already wears and that does fit, and make a note of the size. If it comes from the same place, so much the better. Otherwise you can find out with a tape measure – not something children generally enjoy, but given the alternative of pulling them around the high street for a morning, they should see the attractive side of it. The other thing to do is ensure that the store has a good returns policy, just in case you do make a mistake. Fast delivery is another box to tick – there’s no point if the store has the items you want but they won’t get to you for 2 or 3 weeks when you need them in 2 or 3 days. That’s one reason why local UK companies have an edge.

The other thing to remember about an online London schoolwear supplier is the price break. Shopping online tends to be cheaper, because overheads are smaller. There is no need for a large and expensive shopfront to snare new customers – just a warehouse and a few staff somewhere convenient. That’s why this can be an economic way to buy school clothes. That’s something that has appeal for everyone in a time of squeezed incomes. School uniforms never seem cheap, so anywhere you can save a few quid is welcome.

Please visit http://www.uniform4kids.com/ for further information about this topic.

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Cheap Loans Help Borrowers Out Till Payday

Paul Advice

The debate over secured loans versus unsecured loans has been carried on for decades, as the merits of fast cash and quick repayment are fought out with the merits of lower interest rates and bigger collateral. But as more and more people struggle to pay bills, more and more are going for the unsecured loan format, presented here as the obvious solution for people who need a little quick cash to tide them over until the next pay day. As borrowers up and down the country look for cheap loans with cash payments, the debate is more intense than ever.

Many people don’t know the exact difference between a secured loan and an unsecured loan. Here, the most significant advantages and disadvantages of each are given:

  • Secured loans could lose you your house. ‘Security’ on a loan refers to the bank’s or the lender’s security and assurance that they’ll get back the amount of money they’ve advanced, even if the borrower doesn’t pay them back by the agreed date. This security is given by a contract guaranteeing that if the loan is not paid back, the lender is entitled to take a possession of the borrower’s. This is usually property of far greater value than the value of the loan; almost always a house (as in a mortgage), or a small business. When people talk about ‘repossession,’ the collateral on a secured loan is what they’re referring to.
  • Unsecured loans have high interest rates. It can’t be denied that unsecured loans charge higher interest rates than secured loans: this is so that lenders, who don’t have the security of repossessing collateral such as a house or business, don’t go broke from borrowers defaulting on loans. However, some organisations offer the option of a one-off charge for using the loan service, which is sometimes combined with a lower level of interest. And some people would rather take on the agreed-upon interest figure of an unsecured loan, rather than sign up to interest rates which alter according to the market. Under the terms of most secured loans, interest rates fluctuate along with the market and the mood of the country – which under the current economic climate, can be dramatic.
  • Secured loans can take years to pay off. People who make use of mortgages and other forms of secured loans often borrow on a twenty or thirty year schedule. If you’re looking for fast cash, unsecured loans mean that you’ll pay back quickly (usually in a couple of days) and then stop thinking about it. Unsecured loans are designed for people who know that they have a payment due soon (whether that’s a paycheck, benefits check, or student loan installment) but have costs that need to be met inconveniently early. For instance, if payday is the first Friday of the month, but rent payments are on the first Monday, unsecured cheap loans can give quick cash to provide for difficult times.

Please visit http://www.cashgenie.co.uk/ for further information about this topic.

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