Outsourcing vs. DIY: Why Outsourcing Microfilm Digitization is the Best Choice

If your organization is sitting on a pile of microfilm reels and you’ve decided it’s time to go digital, you’re likely facing a big question: should you handle the digitization process in-house or outsource the job to professionals? While the idea of a DIY approach may seem appealing at first, the reality is that outsourcing microfilm digitization is often the smarter, faster, and more cost-effective option.

Let’s explore why outsourcing to a professional service provider like The Scanning Company is the best choice for ensuring high-quality, secure, and efficient digitization of your microfilm archives.

Why Outsourcing is the Smarter Choice

1. Professional-Quality Scanning & Expertise

Digitizing microfilm isn’t just about running film through a scanner—it requires precision, specialized equipment, and expert knowledge to ensure high-quality results. Professional digitization companies like The Scanning Company use industry-leading scanners and advanced image enhancement techniques to produce clear, readable digital files.

2. Faster Turnaround & Increased Efficiency

An in-house digitization project can take months or even years if you lack the right equipment and expertise. Outsourcing ensures your project is completed quickly and efficiently, with a dedicated team handling the entire process from start to finish. Professional providers can process large volumes of microfilm in a fraction of the time it would take an in-house team.

3. No Upfront Investment in Costly Equipment

Purchasing and maintaining high-quality microfilm scanners is expensive, with some machines costing tens of thousands of dollars. Add to that the cost of software, maintenance, and staff training, and the expenses quickly add up. By outsourcing, you eliminate these high upfront costs and only pay for the services you need.

4. Secure and Compliant Handling of Sensitive Data

If your microfilm contains sensitive or confidential information, data security should be a top priority. Reputable scanning companies follow strict security protocols and compliance standards (such as HIPAA or government regulations) to protect your documents throughout the digitization process. This level of security is difficult to achieve with an in-house operation.

5. Hassle-Free Indexing and Digital Organization

A major advantage of outsourcing is that professional scanning providers offer advanced indexing and metadata creation services. This ensures your digital files are properly organized, searchable, and easy to retrieve, saving you time and frustration in the long run.

6. Focus on Your Core Business, Not Scanning

Digitizing microfilm is a time-consuming and highly technical process that can distract your staff from their primary responsibilities. By outsourcing, your team can stay focused on their core duties while experts handle the labor-intensive task of digitization.

Common Concerns About Outsourcing—And Why They’re Not an Issue

Concern 1: Cost of Outsourcing

Some organizations worry that outsourcing is too expensive. However, when you factor in the costs of equipment, training, and staff time required for in-house scanning, outsourcing is often the more budget-friendly option. Plus, with The Scanning Company, you only pay for the services you need—no hidden fees or unexpected costs.

Concern 2: Losing Control Over the Process

Many organizations fear they won’t have control over their files when outsourcing. However, professional scanning providers work closely with clients to ensure projects meet their specific needs. At The Scanning Company, we provide regular updates and offer customized solutions tailored to your unique requirements.

Concern 3: Security of Sensitive Documents

Entrusting your microfilm to an external company can be nerve-wracking, especially if the documents contain sensitive information. That’s why choosing a trusted provider like The Scanning Company is essential. We follow strict security protocols to ensure your documents are handled with the highest level of confidentiality and care.

Why The Scanning Company is Your Best Choice

At The Scanning Company, we specialize in high-quality, secure, and efficient microfilm digitization. Our team of experts uses top-tier technology and meticulous quality control processes to ensure your digital files are clear, accessible, and properly indexed. Whether you're a business, government agency, or historical archive, we provide tailored solutions to meet your digitization needs.

Get Started Today

Outsourcing microfilm digitization is the best way to ensure professional-quality results, fast turnaround times, and cost-effective solutions without the hassle of managing the process in-house. Contact The Scanning Company today to learn how we can help you transition to a fully digital archive with ease and efficiency!