Got this in my reading pile this week….
|
Going paperless– fact or fiction? The paperless office concept is not new; it has existed since the 1960s and ’70s with the introduction of personal computers. The idea was that automation would make paper redundant. But contrary to predictions of paperless offices, with inexpensive personal computers, printers, copiers, and the Internet, paper use increased. In fact, worldwide office paper use more than doubled from 1980 to 2000. |
Then they follow with this tidbit…
The ‘Paperless Myth’
Going paperless is not about completely eliminating paper use. Realistically, that is not going to happen.
"Paperless" today really means using less paper, not completely eliminating it. The totally paperless office is not realistic, but the office that uses less paper is within reach.
I think that may fall under the “oxymoron” category… if they really mean “Less-paper” than that is what we should say… not “paperless”
even wikipedia is hedging the bets:
Paperless office
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A paperless office is a work environment in which the use of paper is eliminated or greatly reduced. This is done by converting documents and other papers into digital form. Proponents claim that "going paperless" can save money, boost productivity, save space, make documentation and information sharing easier, keep personal information more secure, and help the environment. The concept can also be extended to communications outside the office.
Just things to think about… maybe we don’t always mean what we say or say what we mean…..
REX