Abstract

Converting a ‗paper-based‘ process into a ‗paper-less‘ is an attainable accomplishment that can improve operating efficiency and delivery especially in a document driven decision support system (DDSS). Paperless office is a vision that was adopted by Babcock University in 1999, but as of 2013 the vision is yet but a dream. Babcock University in 2005 had officially adopted a continuum of approaches with the emerging approach as a beginning point, and the transforming approach as a goal to the future of education. The model of these four approaches: emerging, applying, infusing, and transforming, represents a continuum. Thirty years ago, as new computing and communications systems came to the fore, researchers and analysts spoke confidently of the coming paperless society. Today, many such experts would settle for a society that simply used a little less paper. So automating these office functions will bring about Digitization and Electronic record keeping system. The technologies that were supposed to replace paper (such as email, electronic data storage and the web) have led to more paper usage, so technologists and analysts are downsizing their ambitions. Instead of trying to create a paperless society, the focus is on helping institutions, companies and individuals to reduce their paper usage, setting reasonable goals and having limited expectations. This paper focuses on digitization of Babcock University Environment, starting with student‘s records, Library, and administrative paper-based office work flows. The paper will further recommend a parallel stage which will act like an interim stage between infusing ICT approach and the promised transforming approach.