Automated Forms Processing and Paper User Interfaces for Data Collection from Village Microfinance Groups

This paper argues that there is a need for increased collection and management capacity within MFIs. The authors state that they have conceptualized a scalable, flexible and accessible way for MFIs to collect data from village locations using automated forms processing and paper user interfaces. The paper describes the technologies required in the proposed system and an operational protocol for deploying it in the field.

The paper discusses:

• Microfinance and its activities;
• The comfort that villagers feel about paper-based data;
• The limitations of paper as an information medium;
• Automated forms processing and paper user interfaces;
• The benefits of the conceptualized paper-to-digital data collection system is:
  • Scalable;
  • Accessible;
  • Self-sufficient;
  • Flexible.
• Different technology-based solutions that MFIs have experimented with;
• The current status of the project - problems, concerns and progress.

In conclusion, the authors argue that this project is an example of:

• Introduction of a digital technology into villages in a graceful, sustainable manner, without disturbing local life;
• The use of this system in helping MFIs collect, process and store data more effectively, allowing communities to make more informed financial decisions and better manage their community capital.