ScanFlex Rules for Success - Printing Forms

The ScanTools Plus optional ScanFlex module enables you to successfully scan data collection forms manufactured using a wide variety of printing technologies and printed on plain paper. The ScanFlex "Rules for Success" and the testing tools we provide help you use a variety of printing options, including working with Scantron Print Services or printing your own data collection forms with your choice of printing technology, paper, and ink.

Printing Technology

Data collection forms can be successfully printed with offset printing presses, PostScript laser printers, and other types of printing equipment. Scantron does not endorse any particular printing technology or equipment manufacturer or model. Use the equipment available to you, the ScanFlex Rules for Success, and the testing tools provided to create your forms and verify that they will perform reliably.

Paper and Ink

Scantron does not endorse any particular paper or ink brand or supplier.

Paper

Use white 24# bond paper with 84 brightness. See Testing Forms for ScanFlex.

Ink

The ink you use depends on the printing technology you use. Select ink color and screen percentage for each element of your form based on whether that element has to be scanner readable (timing marks, form ID marks, skew marks, bar codes, and pre-slugged responses) or not scanner readable (OMR responses). There is no magic formula for what ink color and screen percentage will work. You must test your forms with your paper, printing technology, and scanner to determine this for yourself.

Scanner Readable

• The printing must read at a level "D" or higher, except for skew marks which must read at a level "C" or higher, as measured by your scanner with the Sheet Image Diagnostic tool included in ScanTools software. It’s important to understand that printing that appears "dark" to your eye may not be scanner readable. Testing with the scanner is the only way to determine what will work.
• Use scanner readable ink for timing marks, form ID marks, skew marks, bar codes, and any "pre-slugged" OMR response positions.

Not Scanner Readable

• The printing must read at a level "2" or lower, as measured by your scanner with the Sheet Image Diagnostic tool included in ScanTools software. It’s important to understand that printing that appears "light" to your eye may be scanner readable. Testing with the scanner is the only way to determine what will work.
• Use ink that is not scanner readable for OMR responses, OMR response designators, and the background shading of any data capture area. For example, OMR response areas, bar codes, grayboxes, signature boxes, write-in areas and alternate shading for OMR grids, etc.

File Types

PrintFlex printing can be performed from certain Scantron DesignExpert document file types and not others.