Less Paper, More Power: Inside Precision Digital’s Atlantic Expansion

When most people think of tech, they imagine lines of code, sleek devices, or cutting-edge software. But the backbone of digital transformation often starts with something more foundational, managing and unlocking the value of information stored on paper.That’s where Precision Digital excels.Founded in 2009 on Prince Edward Island, Precision Digital has grown from a small local operation into a specialized document management and digitization company serving clients across Atlantic Canada. At the heart of the company is Kurtis MacEwen who leads its mission to turn stacks of documents into streamlined, searchable digital systems.We caught up with Kurtis to learn more about the company’s journey, standout projects, and the evolving landscape of digitization.

Can you give us an overview of what Precision Digital does and how it all began?

We’re a document management and scanning company focused on digitizing any material, whether for individuals or businesses, so it can live on computers, shared drives, or cloud storage. We started in 2009 on PEI, where we focused mainly on Island clients with a few from Nova Scotia.. In 2016, we expanded into Nova Scotia, which has grown to become our main hub, while PEI remains a satellite office serving our PEI and New Brunswick clients.

Who are your main clients, and what kinds of projects do you take on?

We work with a range of clients, from small businesses sending us 10–20 boxes a year, to major institutions with large archives like universities, law firms, government departments , museums, heritage centers, and architects... essentially, anyone with a lot of paper. For instance, we are currently digitizing over 5,000 PhD theses for Acadia University. We’re also currently handling 100 boxes every six weeks for another major client.

What’s a recent project that you’re particularly proud of?

Through 2023 into 2024, we completed a massive project for McInnes Cooper, digitizing and tabbing 16,000 minute books from all offices across Atlantic Canada, from St. John’s to Charlottetown to Halifax. The result? PDFs where users can click tabs to jump directly to any tab in the digitized minute book.. We also handled nearly all the pickups and deliveries ourselves. During this same period we had a team of 5 Document Imaging Techs at the Nova Scotia Pension Office who worked on-site for over 18 months digitizing over 75,000 Pension Member Files.

Can you walk us through your typical workflow when handling a client project?

We digitize, perform Optical Character Recognition, index tab content, and ensure files are functional, meaning they’re searchable and easily usable. The client also purchases software to manage and build on the digitized files. We prioritize chain of custody, handling logistics end-to-end and relying on third-party shredding only when necessary. Confidentiality and accessibility are key.

What trends are you seeing in digitization, and where do you see things headed?

I think the future is in automated digital file classification and records retention. While it may take 15 years or more for paper to become obsolete entirely, businesses are already being urged to manage digital files more efficiently. For example, we worked with Cape Breton University’s records manager to develop a classification plan, meeting with various departments and standardizing how paper is handled and later digitized. This sets the groundwork for digital retention and organization. It's all about keeping files accessible, organized, and purge-ready.

What makes Precision Digital stand out in this space?

"We’re not just a one-size-fits-all solution. We customize workflows based on client needs, metadata requirements, naming systems, and so much more. If something’s not working for them, we’ll stick around and fix it. Our goal is usability. We also understand that projects evolve, and we adapt accordingly."

What promotions or special offers are you running right now?

Great question! We offer three tiered digitization packages, and Digital Nova Scotia members get $30 off per box. That can mean a $300 discount for 10 boxes or $3,000 for 100. With large-scale projects, these savings really add up.

What’s the overall vision behind Precision Digital’s work?

It’s about more than just scanning, it’s about helping businesses regain control over their information, reduce clutter, and make their documents genuinely useful. We want clients to feel supported in their digital transformation. And hey, if you're staring at a mountain of paper and feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.Learn more about Precision Digital by visiting their website.