Data Capture

Data Capture

1. Optical Character Recognition

   • Takes an already written paper and allows it to be edited.
     • The paper is scanned into the computer, processed and turned into a Word document for editing.
   • Used in libraries to preserve old books and documents
   • Advantages and Disadvantages
     • Large quantities of text can be input into a computer quickly.
       • Handwriting can be fed directly into the computer so it is faster than re-writing the document
     • Dirty documents can not be read
       • Required equipment is expensive

2. Optical Mark Recognition

   • OMR scans forms which have been filled out with marks or ticks. The documents have empty boxes printed onto them.
     • OMR uses light to detect the position of the marks on the paper.
   • Used in the National Lottery and multiple choice papers
   • Advantages and disadvantages
     • Faster than having to mark the papers by hand
       • Accurate as there is no chance of human error
     • Documents must be in good condition
       • Not environmently friendly unless papers are recycled afterwards