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Office automation refers to the process of taking office tasks normally performed by human staff and creating mechanical processes to complete them. Automation optimizes office performance and offers the following advantages:1. Less storage is required for storing office work (digital storage instead of paper storage)2. Less manual labor/hours for information management3. Easier and simultaneous access of data Many different forms of office tasks may be automated.In terms of telephone technology, automated answering and switching systems replace human receptionists and switchboard operators. Such systems can allow callers to look up extensions in a company directory, route incoming calls, and store, retrieve and forward voice messages.Photocopying machines and scanners automate much of the process of storing and replicating paperwork. Increasingly, computerized systems automate maintaining document archives by scanning and storing documents in electronic form.Perhaps the best known type of office automation device is the computer, which automates many traditional office tasks. For example, email automates what used to be the process of composing and circulating memos and correspondence. Software automates many standard accounting procedures including payables and receivables, purchasing, estimating, and project management.
