Adobe has announced the imminent release of Adobe Document Cloud, which consists of a set of integrated services that aims to reduce inefficiencies and waste related with traditional document processes.
With the document cloud, users will have access to a online profile and personal document hub, and be able to create, review, approve, sign and track documents whether on a desktop or mobile device, Adobe says.
Document Cloud utilises a new Adobe Acrobat DC, which delivers free e-signing as part of the integrated solution.
Acrobat DC, with a touch-enabled user interface, will be available both via subscription and one-time purchase.
Adobe Document Cloud also includes Mobile Link and new mobile apps, enabling users to use the services on desktops as well as other devices. A camera on a device can be used as a portable scanner to convert paper documents to digital, editable files.
The release will address the waste and inefficiency associated with document processes in a number of areas including schools, health care facilities and enterprises, says Adobe.
“People and businesses are stuck in document-based processes that are slow, wasteful, and fragmented.
“While most forms of content have successfully made the move to digital like, books, movies and music, documents and the process of working with them have not, and that needs to change.
“Adobe Document Cloud will revolutionise and simplify how people get work done with critical documents,” says Bryan Lamkin, Adobe senior vice president of technology and corporate development.
Paul Robson, Adobe Asia Pacific president, says the arrival of Adobe Document Cloud will empower businesses in this region.
“Research shows the level of frustration people have with paperwork and the burdensome processes that slow business down.
“In APAC we have businesses operating in highly competitive, fast–moving sectors, so being able to cut through the pain of handling documents will have a major impact on productivity and efficiency, not to mention making people happier at work,” Robson says.
A global study conducted by Adobe titled Paper Jam: Why Documents are Dragging Us Down, shows 83% of workers feel their success and ability to be productive at work are slowed down by outdated ways of working with documents, and 61% said they would consider changing jobs solely for the sake of dramatically less paperwork.
“It's a problem that businesses can no longer afford to ignore,” says Robson.
“Lost electronic information was another frustration, with 70% of workers who lost information saying hard drive failures had consumed vital work.
“At the same time, while relatively few documents are currently stored in the cloud, 65% of people agreed it was important to have access from anywhere to vital information at work.
Adobe Document Cloud and Acrobat DC are expected to be available within 30 days. Acrobat subscribers will automatically receive new Acrobat DC and the Document Cloud as soon as it is available. Acrobat DC will be sold as both a subscription and a perpetual license upon availability.