In the age of emails, instant messaging, and video calls, one might wonder if fax machines, a technology that dates back to the 19th century, still hold any relevance. Surprisingly, the answer is yes! Despite the rapid advancement of digital communication, fax machines continue to play a crucial role in various sectors. Here’s why:
The Charm of the Old: Fax Machines in the Modern World
Fax machines, once a cutting-edge technology, are now largely considered a relic of the past. However, they continue to be a staple of business communications. As of 2019, over 43 million fax machine units were still in operation across the globe. Primarily used by businesses, the fax machine continues to be a vital part of many communication networks.
Physical Records: A Legal and Medical Necessity
In many contexts, recipients consider a faxed document or message legally valid and binding. This makes them a much more viable paper trail than an email chain from the standpoint of a lawyer or firm. Much of the US medical sector relies on faxes for communication. Faxing patient information is HIPAA-approved, which is why so many doctors still use a fax machine in their offices.
Security Concerns: A Shield Against Hacking
Traditional fax machines use telephone lines as their mode of transit. This doesn’t leave a lot of room for message tampering or interception by a third party. A real fax machine doesn’t use a digital network, preventing hackers from accessing anything that you’ve sent or received through the device.
The Evolution: Fax Machines in the Digital Age
Faxing has stayed modern by jumping on the internet bandwagon as soon as it could. Faxes are now sent through email messages, through your cell phone, and through your computer. Fax machine technology has progressed significantly, even in the last few years. You can now use a smart fax machine, with Wi-Fi compatibility and all the bells and whistles, to send faxes using your smartphone or laptop.
The Verdict
While fax machines may seem outdated, they continue to be used in many industries today, particularly in medical and legal settings. The reasons for their continued use include familiarity, accuracy, clarity, speed, and security. So, despite the emergence of newer technologies, faxing continues to hold a critical place in modern communication and document sharing.
In conclusion, while the world has moved towards more advanced forms of communication, the humble fax machine has managed to stay relevant. It has adapted to the changing times, proving that sometimes, the old ways can still be the best ways.