Paper vs Digital

Who’s not ditching paper?

When I read that Newsweek was leaving the print industry and going straight digital, it brought me back to my Junior High School days.

During the last year of Junior High, I earned the privilege to be in an honor class that focused on History and Social Studies.  One of the benefits of this class was that every student received a free copy of Newsweek.  Since then, I’ve always had a special place in my heart for the publication.

With the increased use of iPads and other tablets, it’s only a matter of time before other well known publications decide to drop paper publication and provide an electronic only option.

The magazine industry isn’t the only business moving closer to digital.  Banks and credit unions have taken steps to cut paper out of their business process.

• Direct Deposit: Though this isn’t a new concept, having a paycheck deposited directly into a checking account has increased dramatically in the past few years.  With an increase in technology, many banks are offering this to customers and offering it as a service to business customers.
• ACH: Direct Deposit is just one example of the Automated Clearing House (ACH) process.  In addition paying employees, customers can use this system to pay vendors and other bills.
• Electronic Statements: More and more individuals are opting to receive their statements via online.  In addition to reducing their carbon footprint, people are also learning that electronic statements can be delivered in a more secure way than traditional paper statements.

All the digital improvements that are occurring in our day to day life are great, but there is one area where I still prefer paper over digital: business books.  I enjoy using multi-color highlighters and making notes with a pen on paper.  I know these are thing that can be “digitally done” with the iPad and other tablets…it is just taking time to adjust to it.

Now that I think about it, make it two areas where I prefer paper.  This too reminds me of my Junior High days.  Sorry in advance for the profanity.