In today’s modern society,technology makes it much simpler to transform paper documents into computer files that can be stored in the cloud or on your laptop/PC or even your smartphone. However,there are still times when a paper document may be required. These two formats have disadvantages and advantages. This information will provide information about the different benefits and drawbacks of paper and digital mapping.
1. Digital Maps
Accessing Documents Quickly While On The Go
Digital files have two main benefits: quick access and retrieval. Unlike their paper counterparts which require manual access and a good memory to remember where things are placed,digital files can be retrieved utilising keywords,not something that can be done with paper documents! Keyword search is useful because they can be matched either in the title or content,wherever the document can be found.
Using cloud storage,documents can easily be retrieved from office computers and mobile phones thereby,offering flexibility of access. It is because of this that digital will be the preferred format by work teams. An example is organisational records,like customer information,that must be shared among many people in the geographically diverse work group for the project to achieve success.
Increased Space For Storing
Naturally,paper documents will take up space. Unfortunately,today’s many environments people work in do not have space to spare. With physical space being limited,and the cost of electronic storage becoming ever cheaper,it makes sense that a person would use digital technology to keep digital mapping documents. Scanners could be used to turn paper documents into digital files and set them in ‘the cloud’.
2. Advantages of Paper Documents
Confidentiality Issues
While confidentiality issues may not be highly significant while using geographical documents,it does arise when organising the legal and financial aspects of client information. Using online information,like emailing digital documentation,is not always totally secure therefore,attaching digital map data to an email can put the information at risk. It is very important place simple passwords about the document before opening it,and you will share the password verbally to the recipient.
This is where paper documentation is actually a benefit. Not just is sensitive information kept confidential,however the hard copies are easier to manage coming from a security perspective.
A Reliable Source
Inspite of the digital map resource being convenience,paper maps can be more reliable. Consider the situation – if you are travelling to a remote location where access to the internet is poor,it is recommended that you have hard copies available. A paper document will not need reliable access to the internet to operate,which is offered to pass around to all of people the audience. It could be old-fashioned,but even the antiquated methods have their benefits.
No Requirement To Back Up
Digital documents,including digital maps,require electronic backups. Neglecting to backup the documents can be disastrous! A paper map or document is more reliable as it will not require backups,although extra copies from the item won’t go amiss.
Conclusion
As can be viewed,both paper and digital mapping have benefits however,they have reasons why they could be disadvantageous. Making use of the information above,you are able to pick which choice is suited to meet your needs.
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