When it comes to the safety of your stored documents, there are really only 2 options – physical storage or digital storage. Unfortunately for many companies, choosing between these two document storage options can be difficult.
- How does electronic document storage differ from physical storage?
- What are the benefits?
- What are the dangers?
To date, long-term storage has been considered to be the most cost effective solution for document storage. However, there are also several risks that might not be obvious to those looking to truly safeguard their information. From physical vulnerabilities to shortcomings in the tracking and auditing process, there are several ways in which an electronic document storage solution can improve how you safeguard your data.
If you are looking to for a document storage solution, you should consider the following differences between electronic storage and physical storage.
Electronic Storage VS. Physical Storage
| Security & Safety: | Electronic Storage | Physical Storage |
| Theft Prevention | Yes | Yes |
| Fire Proof | Yes | No |
| Water Proof | Yes | No |
| Automated Backups | Yes | No |
| Document Tracking | Yes | No |
| Audit Trails | Yes | No |
| Efficiency: | Electronic Storage | Physical Storage |
| 24/7 Access | Yes | No |
| View from Computer/Mobile Devices | Yes | No |
| Easily Distributed | Yes | No |
| Enables Staff Efficiency | Yes | No |
| Compliance: | Electronic Storage | Physical Storage |
| Automate Retention Policy | Yes | No |
| Documents Readily Available | Yes | No |
| Enhance Auditing Processes | Yes | No |
Don’t get us wrong – physical storage can still be a feasible and cost effective document storage option. However, if you are committed to truly safeguarding your data, nothing is more beneficial than converting your physical files and storing them electronically.
