Image Management
Image Management is about the processes and technology required to support the scanning (imaging) of information you may receive or create. Image Management typically focuses on the scanning of paper documents to digital images and making them easy accessible to your organisation. Other images like photographs may also need to be stored in a repository (e.g. to support property information, evidence of accident scenes, visualisation of arts collections, etc.). These images can be managed using the same Image Management technology.
People
Your people may require instant access to information relating to claims, properties, etc. in relation to any other available information. In an environment where paper documents are still used (and that is more common then you might think), people can scan document they receive (small volumes) or a dedicated scan centre can scan all incoming correspondence (large volumes).
Even though this may seem as in increase in their workload, experience has proven that the opposite will occur. Indeed, people spend more time processing the documents initially but will find time savings when they require access to them.
Processes
To manage your images successfully you need to have processes in place to support scanning of documents. Processes required range from:
- Preparation of documents before you can scan them
- Review and approval process for correspondence
Technology
The technology to support the storage and processing of your images can be as simple as the use of your file system and network drives or as efficient as a Document Management System. Most Document Management Systems can store any file or records irrespective of its format.
An Image Management System typically caters for functionality as:
- Workflow
- Auditing and logging