A complex freestanding optical mark recognition (OMR) scanner is one which is not on-line to an external processor; it has intelligence stemming from an internal processor located within the unit or system. The advantages and disadvantages of a complex OMR can best be assessed after identifying the scanning needs and constraints of the potential user (institution). The process of selecting a scanner from several available on the market can be facilitated by examining each unit feature-by-feature. Suggested characteristics include: (1) physical characteristics; (2) performance characteristics--production rate, optical sensing capability, forms requirements, scoring functions, accuracy, and output characteristics; and (3) general characteristics--available system configurations, ease of operation, and cost. Although complex freestanding scanners are not necessarily better than simple externally-controlled scanners, one important advantage is their ability to produce hard copy (answer sheets with scores, listings, and item analyses) quickly. (Author/GDC)