Nowadays, emails are the go-to for exchanging business messages quickly. So, what does that mean for those who still use fax machines? Will faxing become an archaic method for exchanging documents and other critical business information?
The answer to the question, “Is faxing obsolete?” is no. Faxing, as a communication method, is here to stay. Traditional fax machines may become less common, but that does not imply that faxing itself will become obsolete.
Here’s why.
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For those in the healthcare and legal sectors requiring secure and reliable document transmissions, faxing remains a viable communication method. ReportLinker even states that the global fax services market could reach an annual growth rate of 11.03% between 2022 and 2027.
However, given the shift towards more modern faxing technologies, the percentage of businesses using fax machines will continue to decline.
Are Fax Machines Obsolete?
Fax machines are not yet obsolete in 2024, but many of them are:
Phased out
First, finding replacement parts or reliable service providers for specific fax machine models is increasingly challenging. Finding the correct components and technicians will also be difficult if something goes wrong with the device since many manufacturers have ceased offering support for older models.
Expensive
The cost of owning and maintaining a fax machine has made it impractical for modern use. Installation, maintenance costs, supplies, and toner all add up. Plus, fees for international fax transmissions could take a toll on small businesses with limited budgets. Scaling would also require purchasing additional fax equipment and paying extra for secondary and toll-free analog phone lines.
Inconvenient
Businesses nowadays prefer flexible solutions that quickly adapt to abrupt changes in workflow conditions and user demands. A fax machine requires a dedicated space and can be cumbersome to maintain and relocate, making it less practical for businesses that prioritize mobility and efficiency.
Are Faxes Still Used Today?
Yes. Many businesses and organizations still send and receive faxes, and it’s mainly because of the following reasons:
Familiarity
Those used to exchanging documents through fax will find modern processes such as using a document management software more complex and cumbersome. With fax, they are already familiar with the process, so there’s less effort needed compared to learning and adapting to a new system.
Reliability
A fax machine will still work even if there is no active or stable connection to the internet. Also, it is less susceptible to cybersecurity threats than modern communication and document exchange methods. Sending a fax over an analog telephone network can help you transmit urgent messages in times of natural disasters or emergencies.
Document integrity
A printed fax copy with a handwritten signature holds more legal weight than an electronic copy, as it provides physical evidence. Altering its contents or signature would require physical tampering, making it more difficult to dispute legally. Some organizations may also implement additional security measures, such as using tamper-proof papers, to ensure the integrity of the printed fax documents.
Who Still Uses Fax Machines?
Various industries and businesses still use fax machines for specific reasons despite having the option to transition to email and other forms of modern communication. Take the healthcare industry, for example.
Many healthcare providers continue to use fax machines to send and receive faxes containing protected health information (PHI). Not only do they find this method convenient, but it also provides a tested and proven way to exchange health and medical information while complying with HIPAA regulations regarding patient privacy and data security.
Online Faxing: An Alternative to Fax Machines
Faxing is far from becoming obsolete, especially now that there is a modern way to fax documents quickly and securely. With online faxing, you can eliminate the need for a traditional fax machine. You can send and receive faxes using any phone or computer connecting to the internet. It’s the best alternative for businesses seeking a cost-effective, scalable, and flexible document exchange solution.
By choosing a reputable fax service, you can improve workflows and achieve increased efficiency. Compliance with HIPAA, GLBA, and other industry regulations will also be the least of your worries.
Secure online fax services offer robust security measures, such as encryption, to ensure every bit of transmitted information remains safe and private. Plus, you can track the status of your fax transmissions through email and in-app notifications, providing timely and reliable document delivery.
Send and Receive Faxes Without a Fax Machine With iFax
If you want to maximize workflow efficiency and streamline your communication process, iFax offers the best solution minus the hassle and costs of using traditional fax machines. Our online fax service works with any device, so it’s easy to fax from anywhere, regardless of your platform.
Why keep using fax machines when you can fax online and achieve better productivity by eliminating the need to print and scan? You can also secure your faxes better with military-grade encryption, multi-factor authentication, and password-protected accounts.
iFax offers a convenient solution that caters to your modern faxing demands.
Request a free demo today, or select a plan to fax directly from your computer or mobile device.
