Which statement best describes the data submission standard in DMC 2010-13?

• A. Paper-based only
• B. Digital format only
• C. At the discretion of the surveyor
• D. Both paper-based and digital formats

Answer: (D)

The data submission standard in this context requires both paper-based and digital formats. This dual requirement ensures data is accessible and verifiable across systems: digital submissions enable fast processing, validation, and transmission to central offices, while paper copies provide a reliable audit trail and maintain compatibility with environments where digital access is limited. If only one format were used, processing could be slowed or data integrity could suffer, and leaving it to individual surveyors to decide would undermine consistency and standardization.