Many businesses that are new to digital operations start with using simple file sharing systems like DropBox, Google Drive, Sharepoint, or file-based ERPs that have a lite version of document management. But they soon outgrow these basic systems and realize that they're missing out on powerful timesaving and productivity features from a comprehensive document management system.

We live in an era where connectivity and collaboration are the pillars on which our workspaces are built. 

The writing is on the wall—the cloud is the preferred technology to manage files remotely. The popularity of apps such as Google Drive and DropBox is a testament to this. However, as some IT professionals say, cloud-based storage simply refers to storing your files someplace other than your computer's hard drive!

Many small businesses use cloud file-sharing systems because the base level is free, they're easy to use, and they allow you to share files with people inside and outside the organization quickly.

Technically, you can use DropBox (along with Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud, etc.) to backup and store your documents. But while these file sharing systems work well in a personal or consumer context, they don't fare so well at the professional or enterprise level.

On the other hand, full-fledged document management systems help organizations go paperless, develop robust digital workflows, create hybrid workplaces, and optimize workspace efficiency. In fact, document management is the foundation on which digital transformation is built.

Let's look at some aspects of cloud-based file-sharing systems compared to comprehensive document management systems (DMS).

• Data Security: Security is an important consideration when organizations digitize all their business data and critical documents. Google Drive allows any user to move files and folders around; this could also be accidental. Users may accidentally move a folder, and it's as good as lost! It creates the potential risk of loss of data and data leaks.

• Access control: In file-sharing systems, users can adjust the share settings for documents and folders, so it's difficult to restrict or control access rights stringently.

• Support for multiple file formats: Simple file-sharing systems may work well for popularly used file types such as MS Word. However, while you can store some specialized file types, such as AutoCAD files and engineering drawings, you may not be able to view them or use them collaboratively. For example, you cannot preview an AVIF image file directly on Google Drive.

• Workflows: Google Drive or other file sharing systems allow you to create, edit, store, and share documents with other team members. However, the perspective of process alignment to control organizational workflows and business process optimization is still missing, and CIOs looking to transform their processes digitally need much more control over processes. For example, Google Drive does not have the workflow capability to support specific project management needs.

• Hidden costs: There are hidden costs to using free file sharing tools or cloud-based software for file management or cloud storage. You will need to purchase third-party add-ons such as e-sign solutions or workflow tools.

• Reporting & dashboards: Reporting tools make it easy for project leaders to identify which documents are awaiting review—Google Drive doesn't have this functionality.

• Metadata and Indexing: Google Drive doesn't allow you to create custom metadata for your documents, so you don't get the powerful indexing and search functionality of a comprehensive DMS.

How document management systems like OpenText AppEnhancer can help

Online file storage, document & data-based workflows, and sharing services can play a huge role in letting you collaborate smoothly no matter where you're working. Document management systems have been steadily moving away from local storage on-premise to remote, cloud-based storage and processing.

Solutions like OpenText AppEnhancer provide an integrated and secure document management solution, seamlessly integrating document or data capture, document storage, editing, workflow, and retention in a single platform.

• A comprehensive DMS such as OpenText AppEnhancer functions as a centralized controlled document repository that provides a 'single source of truth.' AppEnhancer enables digital collaboration for employees in organizations by enabling fast, reliable or secure access to documents.

• A full DMS has robust indexing capabilities, making search and retrieval quick and easy—this is crucial for users. AppEnhancer has advanced indexing features so you can perform a full-text search with fast rendering of multiple results and in-depth search capabilities.

• A DMS features advanced version control that allows the document owner to approve and lock down the final version of that document and ensure that only that version is visible within the system. AppEnhancer allows for granular control of what users can see, manage or share through robust information access and security options.

• A DMS enables digital workflows and makes auditing easy for compliance programs like ISO 9001. AppEnhancer automates repeatable processes, saving time and money by identifying and smoothing out bottlenecks in your workflows. Leverage its BPM features to trigger digital workflows to automate repetitive tasks and free up your workforce for more mission-critical tasks.

• OpenText AppEnhancer is a powerful platform that allows you to create robust applications that meet your organization's content needs without relying extensively on your IT development team.

• OpenText AppEnhancer is priced for mid-market companies but is powerful enough for enterprise applications.

In the final analysis

There is no comparison between file-sharing systems and document management platforms. They both deal with a completely different set of priorities and processes.

Google Drive is a familiar, low-cost, and essential cloud-based solution for business in today's collaborative and virtual world. It offers many things to many people, and most companies would be lost without it. However, it is not a tool that has been specifically designed for business enterprises that rely on digital documents and need professional data management systems.

Turn to RDS for a modern & comprehensive document management system

Have you transformed your paper documents into digital formats, only to find them difficult to manage and search through?

Have you outgrown your file-sharing system and want to take concrete steps to digital transformation? 

Turn to Revolution Dara Systems for a document management system that goes beyond simplistic file-sharing tools such as Google Drive or Dropbox.

AppEnhancer's advanced content management capabilities help your employees work more efficiently and make faster decisions while keeping information safe, secure, and compliant. 

We'll help you make a smooth transition from simple file-sharing systems to a full-featured document management system.

Reach out to RDS today for a demo of the OpenTextAppEnhancer document management system.