Many companies choose to outsource their document imaging to a service bureau because outsourcing is more cost-effective and efficient than in-house imaging. Scanning in-house requires investment in software, hardware and labor to save scanned images to a viewable format. Research is required to obtain the right software and hardware required to best fit their needs. In many cases, it requires a dedicated person to manage the process and staffing. Companies will spend time and money in training employees on software and hardware usage. Ongoing staffing costs is by far the major expense of in-house imaging.

Many companies find outsourcing their scanning to be more efficient. The work is done by professionals with expertise in document scanning and conversion. The company pays for the cost of scanning only, not equipment, staffing or training.