Why might forms need to be machine-readable?

Forms need to be machine-readable primarily to prevent potential data entry errors. When forms are designed to be easily processed by machines, such as scanners or optical character recognition systems, the likelihood of human errors during data entry significantly decreases. This technology can accurately capture the information without the inconsistencies that can arise from handwritten entries or manual typing. By ensuring that the data is entered correctly from the start, it streamlines processes, increases efficiency, and enhances the overall reliability of the data collected.

The other options, while they may have some merit in specific contexts, do not encapsulate the critical importance of data accuracy that machine-readable forms provide. For instance, speeding up the printing process or allowing for easier filing may be secondary benefits but do not directly address the fundamental issue of error prevention in data handling. Maintaining a standard format is important for consistency, but it does not inherently safeguard against the mistakes that machine-readability mitigates.