Frequently Asked Questions

Turnaround Times

How long does a typical document scanning project take?

Turnaround depends on volume, document condition, and output requirements. As a guide:

  • Small batches (up to 5,000 pages): 3–5 business days
  • Mid-size projects (5,000–50,000 pages): 2–4 weeks
  • Large enterprise projects (50,000+ pages): Scheduled in phases; timeline confirmed at quotation stage
  • Engineering drawings (large-format): Add 20–30% to standard page estimates due to handling requirements
  • Microfilm / microfiche conversion: Typically 3–6 weeks depending on reel count and image quality

Rush processing is available for select project types. Contact us to discuss your deadline.

Does the turnaround include indexing and quality checks?

Yes. Our standard workflow includes scanning, image quality assurance (IQA), and basic indexing by filename or document type. Enhanced metadata indexing (by date, reference number, department, etc.) is quoted separately.

Pricing & Getting a Quote

How is pricing determined?

Pricing is project-specific and depends on:

  • Document type and size (A4, A3, large-format, bound volumes, microfilm)
  • Condition and preparation required (staples, folds, fragile paper)
  • Volume (page or reel count)
  • Output format and resolution (PDF/A, TIFF, searchable PDF)
  • Indexing depth and metadata fields
  • On-site vs. off-site scanning requirement
  • Security clearance or special handling (government/legal documents)

All prices shown on this site are indicative placeholders (SGD 1.00). Actual pricing is provided via a formal quotation after project scoping.

How do I request a quote?

Submit your project details through our Request a Quote form. To speed up the process, please include:

  • Estimated page or box count
  • Document types and sizes
  • Preferred output format
  • Any compliance or security requirements
  • Your target completion date

We typically respond within 1–2 business days with a scoping call or written estimate.

Can I get a sample scan before committing to a full project?

Yes. We offer a sample/pilot scan for qualifying projects — typically 50–200 pages at no charge — so you can validate output quality, OCR accuracy, and naming conventions before full mobilisation. Request a pilot scan.

Data Security & Compliance

How do you protect confidential documents during scanning?

Document security is embedded into our operational process:

  • Documents are transported in sealed, tracked consignments
  • Access to scanning areas is restricted to authorised personnel with signed NDAs
  • No personal mobile devices are permitted in processing areas
  • All digital files are stored on encrypted drives and deleted from temporary storage upon project completion and client sign-off
  • Chain-of-custody documentation is provided on request

Are you PDPA-compliant?

Yes. Micrographics Data operates in accordance with Singapore's Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA). We handle personal data only to the extent necessary for service delivery, do not retain data beyond the agreed retention period, and can sign a Data Processing Agreement (DPA) for enterprise and government clients.

Can data be processed and stored within Singapore?

Yes. All scanning, processing, and digital storage for Singapore-based projects takes place within Singapore. We do not transfer project data offshore without explicit written authorisation. Data residency confirmation is available in our project agreements.

Do you handle government-classified or legally sensitive documents?

We have experience working with government agencies, law firms, and financial institutions on sensitive document projects. Additional security protocols (escorted transport, on-site scanning, secure erase certification) can be arranged. Please indicate your security classification requirements when requesting a quote.

File Formats & Deliverables

What file formats do you deliver?

Standard deliverables include:

  • PDF/A (archival-grade, ISO 19005 compliant)
  • Searchable PDF (OCR text layer applied)
  • TIFF (300 dpi or 400 dpi, suitable for archival masters)
  • JPEG (for photographic or low-resolution preview use)
  • DjVu / other formats available on request

Files can be delivered via secure download link, encrypted external drive, or direct upload to your nominated document management system.

Do you offer OCR (text recognition) on scanned documents?

Yes. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is available for documents in English, Chinese, and other common languages. Accuracy depends on print quality and font type. We recommend requesting a pilot scan to validate OCR output before full-scale processing.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is happy to help you scope your project. Get in touch or submit a quote request and we'll follow up within 1–2 business days.