How are OCR vs OMR used in business? - Xtends

Many people may have heard of or be familiar with OCR (Optical Character Recognition).

OCR is a technology that converts documents, images, or even electronic signatures in text or plain text format into digital files that can be searched using keywords.

Image : https://lengyi.medium.com/part-1-optical-character-recognition-with-tensorflow-and-keras-ocr-94c271c0a0a3

 

What is OMR?

OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) is the technology used to read marks or symbols made to replace character recognition (OCR). These marks do not contain any text or data, but the OMR reader identifies the location of the marks.

OMR is also known as an "Optical Mark Reader," a device used to scan and read the positions of marks. The device works with a light sensor and requires software to process the data, such as scanners (both desktop and portable).

The most common OMR device people are familiar with is the test scanner used to grade multiple-choice exams, where students fill in answer bubbles using a 2B pencil or darker. The OMR scanner detects the marks and processes the scores for each test quickly.

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What is the difference between OCR and OMR?

The difference between OCR and OMR lies in the data type in the file.

OCR means "Optical Character Recognition," which involves recognizing characters and meaningful text in a document.

OMR stands for "Optical Mark Recognition," which focuses on capturing data through marks made at specific locations.

Thus, OCR files require different data-reading devices, as creating an OCR file involves scanning paper or surfaces and converting it into a digital file that can be read by software.

In contrast, OMR reads data from predefined mark positions set by the software, storing and processing the data accordingly.

How are OCR and OMR technologies used in business?

OCR technology helps in fast and efficient data storage, saving space by reducing the number of paper documents. It scans information into digital files that can be easily searched using keywords and stored on cloud storage, eliminating the need for physical document storage while providing easier access.

OCR technology is integrated into many industries. Businesses that require large amounts of data, such as patient medical records for doctors, or searching for documents like purchase orders (PO), invoices, and letters of credit, benefit significantly from OCR.

On the other hand, OMR technology helps manage large volumes of documents quickly. A clear example is the grading of a large number of exams. OMR can efficiently grade the tests if the exam papers are prepared correctly, such as using a 2B pencil or darker. It also uses software to process and record data in detail.

Sources: www.necc.mass.edu, th.fondoperlaterra.org, sites.google.com, aigencorp.com, lengyi.medium.com, www.dropbox.com