Paperless system example

In addition to the life cycle stages, supporting activities for a document must be defined, i.e., what can happen to a document at all stages of its life cycle, for example, storage, retrieval, backup, format changes and so on. This may not be inherent in a paper-based system but may need to be specified when implementing a paperless system. 

E-mail is probably the most widespread ready-made application where electronic signature can be used and is used. Work flow and document management applications are other examples of information systems where an electronic signature is needed. Those applications are mainly dedicated to closed communities of users and documents with a limited validity period. The paperless office is the type of application that may be most promising for coming years. 

Replace paper with a different medium, e.g., computers, which is what people typically have in mind when talking paperless. The immediate example is simply to transfer procedures and documents in a paper-based operation into screens and reports in a computer system, but it can also be the replacement of some procedures and instructions by drawings, video clips and other electronic media which replace the paper. 

To date, process control systems like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) have only enabled paperless operation in combination with SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems or as part of a DCS (Distributed Control System), which enable measurement and control actions to be recorded and used as part of batch documentation. Process control systems have the advantage that they focus on real-time data as a necessary part of both control and supervision. The real-time focus is very useful for implementing both active and proactive control when combined with, for example, statistical tools or predictive algorithms. 

As LIMS typically contain both the analysis values and the associated procedures, they hold much potential for integration with other paperless enablers to provide a streamlined paperless operation. Integration with other systems may include, for example, preassignment of analysis when a new batch is started on the plant floor, material status information for MRP II or ERP systems, electronic certificates of analysis for batch documentation, raw material characteristics for dispensing operation and others. It should be noted, however, that integrating LIMS with other paperless enablers outside the laboratory environment is a complex task. 

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