Seven Keys To An Unstructured And Semi-Structured Document Solution

The efficiency of standard OCR-based software has increased dramatically in recent years. With the help of template design, an organization can readily automate the extraction of data from static locations on structured documents.

Standard OCR solutions use a template-based process, where users define the type of data to be extracted based on their location on the form. Other elements on the form, such as company logos, field descriptions (e.g., ‘Street Address') and lines are excluded from processing. This is a solid method of collecting the data you need from consistent forms.

Often, however, an organization's crucial data is received on unstructured or semistructured documents – such as invoices and Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements. The data you need often appears in a different location on these documents, from one vendor to the next. Technology now exists that streamlines this process for these unstructured and semi-structured documents. To save time, money and frustration, an organization should select a solution that offers better automation flexibility for all document types.

Here are seven characteristics to consider when selecting a solution for your unstructured and semi-structured documents.