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Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is an integral component of modern data processing systems, especially when handling unstructured data such as invoices. In this blog, we will explore how OCR functions as a module within Conversational Process Automation (CPA), streamlining the transformation of unstructured data into actionable insights.
The Role of CPA and OCR
Conversational Process Automation (CPA) is designed to facilitate automated interactions through conversational interfaces. It allows users to upload various types of files—documents, images, and videos—while offering extensive configuration options. Businesses can customise the number of files that can be uploaded, the types of files accepted, and the maximum file size. This flexibility ensures that organisations can tailor the system to meet their specific needs. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) serves as a powerful module within CPA, enabling the extraction of text and data from unstructured sources. OCR technology converts printed or handwritten text from scanned documents or images into machine-readable data. This module plays a crucial role in automating data extraction processes by identifying and capturing key information from invoices, receipts, clinical diagnoses and other financial documents.
Transforming Unstructured Data
The challenge many businesses face is converting unstructured data into a structured format that can be easily processed. When a user uploads a PDF invoice or a photo through CPA, the following steps occur:
- File Upload: Users upload their documents directly into the CPA system.
- Data Extraction via OCR: The OCR module processes the uploaded files, scanning for relevant information such as invoice numbers, amounts, and due dates. It assigns a confidence level (CL) to each extracted value, indicating the accuracy of the extraction.
- Confidence Level Evaluation: If the CL exceeds a predefined threshold set by compliance standards, the extracted variable is accepted for further processing. If not, CPA prompts the user for confirmation before proceeding with that variable.
Technical Considerations
Integrating OCR as a module within CPA brings several technical advantages. Since CPA and OCR have different technical requirements, leveraging a third-party OCR provider can enhance performance and accuracy. Businesses can seamlessly integrate advanced OCR functionalities without compromising system efficiency by utilising API call capabilities through the Function Manager tab in CPA.
Benefits of Using OCR within CPA
- Elimination of Manual Data Entry: By automating data extraction, OCR significantly reduces accountants' time on manual data entry tasks.
- Increased Accuracy: Modern OCR systems achieve high accuracy rates in data extraction, minimising human errors that often occur during manual entry.
- Improved Data Management: The structured data extracted by OCR can be easily organised and stored in accounting systems, enhancing overall data management practices.
- Enhanced Efficiency: With automated processes, accounting teams can focus on more strategic tasks rather than getting bogged down by repetitive data entry work.
Conclusion
The integration of OCR as a module within Conversational Process Automation provides a robust solution for transforming unstructured data into structured formats suitable for business processes. By harnessing these technologies effectively, organizations can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and streamline workflows. As businesses adapt to an increasingly digital landscape, embracing solutions like CPA with integrated OCR will be essential for maintaining competitiveness in their respective industries.
