The terms "paperless," "electronic," and "digital" are often used interchangeably to describe work which previously was done with paper, but which now has been adapted to information and communication technology (ICT) devices and software.

 

The Information Technology Association of America (ITAA) has defined information technology (IT) in the electronic era as "the study, design, development, implementation, support or management of computer-based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware." IT entails processes involving the use of computers and software to create, convert, store, process, transmit, and retrieve information securely. The term has recently been broadened to ICT (Information and Communications Technology), so as to include the idea of electronic communication.

To be paperless means essentially that the traditional paper-based practices-such as writing, note taking, reading, editing, communicating, and even drawing-are instead performed electronically with ICT devices and software. Much has been said and written about the paperless office in recent years, and the rapid development of ICT is enabling an increasing number of paperless practices.

The relationship between paperless work styles and ICT is intimate and interdependent; a paperless work and lifestyle cannot be implemented without ICT, and the use of ICT should naturally lead to becoming paperless. Paradoxically, however, the consumption of paper has increased exponentially since the advent of personal computers and printers. The main reason for this lies in the fact that we have become conditioned to use paper since our childhood, and we may not have fully grasped the many opportunities and advantages that paperless work practices can bring.

The advantages of replacing paper-based practices with digital ones are numerous, and here we list a few of the most important:

- Enjoy flexible work schedules and generate more free time.
- Enjoy a greater freedom of mobility and a lesser need to travel.
- Gain greater control of your private and personal businesses.
- Enjoy cost saving.
- Enable safer document archiving.
- Become more productive and efficient.
- Become more environment friendly.

Digital Life Artist Inc provides the most comprehensive guidance on paperless work and lifestyles, and how to enjoy the many paperless advantages both at an individual and organizational level. The most comprehensive guide on paperless work- and lifestyles, can be found here: