Obos simplifies electronic forms processing

OBOS (Wilmington, DE, http://www.obosinc.com) has introduced a scanner system that converts handprinted forms into electronic orders. The One Button Ordering System (OBOS) offers an electronic alternative to people who do not use computers or simply prefer paper forms. Users fill out a custom order form with a pen and insert the form face-down into a scanner; the image is then transmitted to the order center and converted to an electronic data file. "OBOS has pared electronic ordering down to the basics and made it more powerful," says Jordan Ayan, CEO of Create-It! Inc., a Chicago-based consulting firm. "It connects low-tech businesses and their customers in an 'electronic hug' that makes it hard for them NOT to do business together." Adds Robert Boyer, Obos Director of Marketing: "OBOS is faster than mail, more accurate than fax, and cheaper than telesales. It's the best of both worlds."