Back before PC's were on everyones desktop and kitchen table, the advent of the mini- and micro-computer was the "beginning of the paperless society". It was touted then, as it is now, that computerization will eliminate the need to paper to make business runs. But, the computer apparently has created a bigger demand for paper than ever before. Now, instead of circulating a 2 page office memo, everyone gets an email. Fine, so far... no paper. But, 25 people now print that email. So, the 2 page memo has developed into a 50 page tome. This is paperless?
As for storage, microfilming and document digitizing have been around for years and will be for years to come. The issue is the ability to truly eliminate the need for the paper as a medium to get the "printed" word to the reader and ultimately to storage. Not too difficult a task. But, one major problem exists and that is getting the document amended and updated and signed. Even with the proliferation of computers and internet access, there is still a lot of people that have neither.
Health insurance companies have learned a tough lesson this past year with "Plan D" drug program. They were telling everyone just to go online the www.thisplace.com and sign up. Well, guess what, they were flooded with calls from people who didn't have the capability to do that. More paper had to be generated.
"A Paperless Society", imo, is somewhat a pipe dream. Historically, technology has generated a paper-inundated society beyond comprehension. Sure, there are pockets of business that will be able to. There are even pockets in society that will go that way (http://www.ajr.org/Article.asp?id=4046), but it'll be a while till everyone is issued a computer, logon ID and SSN number in one fell swoop. |
