CD-ROMs (CDs) and DVD-ROMs (DVDs) are probably the best known method for data transfer. One CD can hold the approximate equivalent of one four-drawer file cabinet or 10,000 pages. A DVD can hold approximately 120,000 pages or 12 four-drawer file cabinets. Considering that a standard filing cabinet commands 10.5 square feet of office space, converting the equivalent of a full DVD of paper would save 126 square feet, more than enough room for another full-time employee.

CDs and DVDs are also considered to have longevity of 100 years. This greatly exceeds that of paper records which can begin deteriorating almost immediately in non-controlled environments such as basements or storage buildings.