DIR Launches Record Conversion Service for Texas Government

The Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) has introduced a service intended to help public entities digitize paper documents and older media formats, part of an ongoing effort across Texas government to expand digital service delivery and reduce reliance on physical records.

In information provided to Industry Insider — Texas, DIR said document scanning/digital media conversion services are now available through the Shared Technology Services (STS) program. The offering, which began March 27, allows participating entities to submit records for conversion from paper, CDs and DVDs into digital formats that can be organized and stored according to each entity’s preferences.

Entities using the service can determine how files are structured, where the digitized records are stored and what happens to the original physical materials once scanning or conversion is complete.

DIR said the offering is aimed at agencies and other public organizations that still depend on paper records and aging storage media in their day-to-day work. The agency said digitization can help simplify records access, cut down on manual processing and reduce the amount of office space devoted to storage.

DIR also tied the service to state efforts to improve digital access following the 89th Texas Legislature. The agency cited House Bill 5195, which directs state agencies to identify ways to improve and modernize their websites and online services.

Through the STS program, state agencies processed more than 318 million print images and mailed more than 77 million envelopes in the last fiscal year, according to DIR. The agency also said print output declined 7 percent from fiscal 2024 and mail volume fell 4 percent, reflecting a continued movement toward digital services even as some functions still require paper.