In recent years, converging technologies have meant that
the humble photocopier, once sidelined to a corner of the
workplace, has evolved into a machine which deserves to be
at the heart of the working environment. Indeed,
photocopiers have now become truly multifunctional
printer/copier systems - a networked scanner, printer and
copier and document management facility all in one, and can
be configured potentially to drive efficiency and increase
your bottom line.
Emerging software applications have the capability to
extend the role of the Photocopier/Multifunctional Device
(MFD) a long way beyond its traditional functions. The
potential of these applications is wide-ranging, enabling
businesses and organisations to procure MFDs which are
tailored specifically for the business workflow
requirements. Businesses are already developing their own
software applications in keeping with their needs. It is
important to be educated about these advances and to be one
step ahead in the world of print technology and document
management.
Remote Printing
For example, developments in Bluetooth technology means
that it is now entirely normal for users to send print jobs
to an MFD from their mobile devices. This makes it possible
for such users to print documents from any site of their
choosing - even a café or airport lounge - that has a
printer on-site. To ensure confidentiality, it is also
possible to encrypt the data so that only authorised
personnel can release the print job when they are
physically standing at the MFD.
Print and Document Security Considerations
Print manufacturers already work with third party software
developers to provide swipe cards to enable authorised
access to print devices. Developments are also under way
with biometrics and voice activation. Konica Minolta has
already perfected a recognition system which maps the veins
in a user's finger to ensure secure authorisation.
Applications have also been developed which link the
business CCTV system to an MFD. As well as monitoring the
building, the system can print out photos of any intruders.
Security - Plus Diverse Functionality
However, security enhancements are not the only major leap
forward in printer/copy technology. These days, the
interface of a Multifunctional Device can be used to access
emails to increase user productivity, and large capacity
hard disk drives can create an additional workstation with
secure access to document folders for each member of the
working team.
Additionally, with increasing pressure on all organisations
to focus on environmental issues, java developers are using
software applications to measure the energy that each print
device within their organisation uses. This enables the IT
manager to make judgments about the efficiency of its
entire range of office equipment.
Several enterprising companies are using the
Multifunctional Device as the environmental overlord of the
office by allowing it to control the office lights, while
others have set automatic timers so that it automatically
switches off out of office hours.
People-Oriented for Maximum Workflow Integration
To meet equal-opportunity obligations in the workplace,
companies are now specifying printers which are
specifically tailored to the needs of all. For example,
some are implementing larger buttons for the visually
impaired, and adjustable control panels and LCD displays to
enable comfortable access for wheelchair users. Education
establishments and events organisers have developed
software to enable attendees to register via the interface
of the Multifunctional Device. From this, a list of
attendees and an ID card for each entrant can be printed.
After the event, data about the attendees can be uploaded
onto a database and used to tap into potential sales leads.
Summary
Thus, print/copy technology is evolving in leaps and bounds
and, accordingly, the business of photocopier replacement,
has become an opportunity for a complete re-appraisal of
working practices
----------------------------------------------------
Jimi St. Pierre writes for several Office Equipment
suppliers in the UK, including office systems supplier
Principal Corporation. The Principal Corporation trades
under the slogan "Delivering Genuine Business Benefits" and
their range of office systems equipment, software and
document management services can be found at =>
http://www.principalcorp.co.uk/
No comments:
Post a Comment