2. Remote Encoding Centers
When all electronic means of resolving address information have been exhausted, the mailpiece image is sent to a Remote Encoding Center (REC) where operators use video display terminals and keyboards to process the address information.

Providing partial RCR results with the image often allows the operator to process the address with minimal keystrokes. The results of RBCS activities are barcodes sent electronically to a barcode sorter. There, the barcode is applied to the mailpiece, keeping it in the automated mail stream.

Between September 1999 and the end of 2001, reduced keying requirements due to recognition rate improvements allowed us to close 30 of the original 55 RECs. More closures are expected in 2002. While we are looking into other consolidation options that could result in the closure of additional RECs, we expect images from other product lines to be processed at RECs. The AFSM 100, PARS, and APPS programs, which are discussed in the next section, will increase the REC workload.