Following are the big and small stories of the month.
Toshiba’s Newest e-STUDIO Color Series Combines Full-Featured Color Printing
June 26, 2012 — Toshiba America Business Solutions, Inc. has introduced the e-STUDIO 2050c/2550c series and e-STUDIO2051c/2551c series of MFPs. These entry-level models feature color printing, the latest generation eBRIDGE technology and up to 600 x 1,200 dots-per-inch resolution making it an ideal fit for small to mid-size businesses requiring the performance and image quality of other e-STUDIO Color series, but at a lower price point.
The four compact, lightweight models allow for scanning ,and color printing and copying up to 25 ppm as well as optional faxing on the e-STUDIO2050c/2550c, while using the advanced Toshiba technology and features included in MFPs that ordinarily are designed and priced for larger businesses. Along with incorporating the e-BRIDGE platform, the new line features a tiltable, VGA color control panel with one-touch access keys, as well as improved serviceability, Toshiba’s new Universal Print Driver, and remote management capabilities.
Konica Minolta Launches bizhub C364/C284/C224 Color MFPs with INFO-Palette Design
June 25, 2012 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. has announced the launch of the bizhub C364/C284/C224 series of color MFPs (print, copy, fax and scan. Featuring the recently launched INFO-Palette design, this new series reportedly enhances productivity via streamlined information sharing, office workflow efficiency, on-screen document management and more, managed on Konica Minolta’s new INFO-Palette Design control panel.
With a range of print/copy speeds of 36 ppm, 28 ppm, and 22 ppm (bizhub C364, bizhub C284, bizhub C224 respectively), Konica Minolta’s newest bizhub models provide customized productivity and efficiency to match user workflow. The bizhub C364/C284/C224 Series includes Konica Minolta’s exclusive Emperon print system, a 1,200-dpi print resolution for high quality images, and improved scanning speeds with the optional DF-701 Dual Scan Document Feeder, which doubles scanning capabilities at up to 160 originals per minute, what Konica Minolta says is a first in this product category.
The new INFO-Palette design offers bizhub C364/C284/C224 Series users a new control panel interface with a “touch & swipe” feel similar to the latest advanced mobile devices. Featuring a large, bright 9-ich color screen and next-generation functions such as pop-up menus, scrolling function keys and customizable command icons, this new control panel further streamlines document management, according to Konica Minolta.
The bizhub C364/C284/C224 Series features the newest generation of Konica Minolta’s exclusive Simitri HD toner formulation that uses biomass plant- based materials to reduce environmental impact and fuses to paper at lower temperatures to reduce power consumption. All three models consume less power, among one of the lowest power consumption rates in their class, and lower than the standards specified by Energy Star certification. Energy-saving modes include an Optimize Power Consumption mode that automatically sets correct on/off/standby status for workdays, weekends and holidays.
The control panel also includes an Eco-indicator screen that allows paper, toner and energy monitoring by device, account or end-user. Energy-efficient LED lamps allow low-cost scanning and extensive use of recycled materials in construction give these new bizhub models an even smaller environmental footprint.
Sd|University to Hold Managed Service Workshop September 5-6 in Baltimore
June 25, 2012 – Sd|University, the advanced training division of Strategy Development, is conducting their Managed Service Workshop in Baltimore, MD on September 5-6, 2012. Tom Callinan, Managing Principal of Strategy Development, will be instructing this comprehensive 2-day workshop.
“The managed services (MS) opportunity provides a new revenue stream for MFP dealers,” states Callinan. “The small- to medium-sized business customer is seeking a new way to support their internal IT environment. The shift is taking place now, and forward-looking dealers have an opportunity to build a customer base in this newly growing market. Winning new business today will lock out competitors.”
Callinan continues, “It’s important to jump on this opportunity today. Getting a successful Managed Service business up and running will not only help dealers differentiate their MPS offering, but it will also lead to increased revenues per customer and help develop deeper relationships. It’s a win-win situation.”
For dealers who are a Sd|University member company, this is one of the portfolio of educational experiences their sales and management team should attend. If a dealer is not enrolled in the tuition program, they can still attend Strategy Development’s education by enrolling for the individual class.
The two-day class, SD Managed Service Workshop, will show dealers step-by-step how to set-up and manage a successful and profitable managed service business. Areas of focus will include the phases of the Managed Service process, financial targets, packaging of services, Managed Service systems and processes, staffing, dealing with the competition and the Managed Service process. For more details please visit www.strategydevelopment.com/ms.
All sd|University classes can also be held at your location for larger groups. For more information on sd|University and how the tuition program works and how it stacks up against the competition please visit us at www.sd-university.com. Dealers can still register for individual classes as well.
For more information or to register for the SD Managed Service workshop, visit www.strategydevelopment.com/ms or contact Tom Callinan at callinan@strategydevelopment.com or at (610) 527-3317.
ECi Software Solutions Integrates Private Supply Network with Printer Essentials
June 25, 2012 – ECi Software Solutions (www.ECiSolutions.com) has announced the latest vendor integration on the ECi Private Supply Network (PSN). This PSN integration connects Printer Essentials, Inc., to independent dealers that use any of three ERP systems for the office technology sector offered by the ECI family of companies: DDMS, Britannia and e-automate.
“By connecting the business system software directly with vendor systems, ECi’s PSN eliminates data entry tasks and errors inherent to the manual B2B purchasing process,” says Tom Kapp, executive vice president at ECi Software Solutions. “Our technology partnership with Printer Essentials makes it easy for dealers to increase productivity while expanding product offerings to meet the changing technology needs of the end consumer.”
The scope of these PSN integrations is to allow independent dealers to:
- Automate item and pricing data updates
- Check stock availability and pricing instantly when the end consumer submits an order
- Aggregate individual customer orders into the dealer’s purchase order
- Retrieve acknowledgement of vendor-allocated inventory
Printer Essentials also has a long-standing relationship with FMAudit, ECI’s print management solution provider. The FMAudit portfolio of managed print services software helps independent office equipment and office product dealers assess imaging supply and service needs by interfacing remotely with their customers’ network printers and copiers.
Toshiba America Business Solutions to Suspend Office Printing Awareness Campaign
June 21, 2012 – Although started with the intention of promoting responsible everyday office printing practices and reducing office waste, Toshiba America Business Solutions, Inc. has announced it will suspend its National No-Print Day (NNPD) campaign. The Website and social media channels have also been unpublished.
“The message behind the campaign was simple: reduce unnecessary office paper waste. It was an initiative directed at end users who frequently tell us they’d like to print less. The intent was to raise awareness of wasteful office printing practices and to provide simple tips and tools to reduce it,” says Bill Melo, vice president of marketing, services and solutions, Toshiba America Business Solutions, Inc. “The provocative name and message unfortunately led to a misconception of the campaign goals by the paper and print industries, and for that we apologize.”
“Toshiba America Business Solutions recognizes that printing and paper are necessities at the workplace and in our daily lives and that the companies and employees of those industries make valuable contributions to society,” continues Melo. “We will continue to help our customers exercise sustainable printing practices through our various products and solutions we offer.”
FlexPrint to Expand Operations with New Headquarters
June 21, 2012 – FlexPrint, Inc., a national provider of managed print solutions and document management, will expand its headquarters to a new facility in Mesa, Arizona. The company has purchased a 40,000 square foot building in the Red Mountain Business Center, which will house all operations including service & support, administration, sales & marketing, information technology, and executive teams – all under one roof. The company is anticipated to move into the new facility in Q4 of 2012.
“I want to thank our hard working and dedicated employees for fueling our dynamic growth. The expansion into this new headquarters will improve internal communications and help us deliver exceptional customer service to our growing national customer base,” says Frank Gaspari, CEO of FlexPrint, Inc.
The new space is designed to streamline communication and integration of services among various departments. The relocation coincides with the firm’s recent opening of a new regional office in Chicago, Ill., and the expansion of additional managed technology services.
Business Technology Association to Host Dealer Trip to China
June 20, 2012 – On Sept. 4-11, 2012, the Business Technology Association (BTA) will be hosting a trip to China. Open to BTA member dealers and their spouses, the trip will include guided tours of two office technology industry factories—Konica Minolta Business Technologies (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Wuxi, China, and SOCC/Sharp Office Equipments (Changshu) Co. Ltd., Changshu, China. Both factories, each producing MFPs sold by dealers in the United States, are located near Shanghai.
The trip, the first of its kind for the association, will offer a unique, memorable opportunity for office technology dealers to travel and network with fellow dealers representing a variety of brands. In addition to the factory tours, dealers will visit attractions such as the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. There will also be many opportunities to experience the local cuisine and culture.
“We spend our careers selling and servicing the products produced by our industry’s manufacturers, but we rarely, if ever, tour a plant where these products are made,” BTA President Tom Ouellette says. “This trip will provide an unforgettable opportunity and venue to see, firsthand, the factories of two of our industry’s leading manufacturers. Dealers joining us in China will have a new level of appreciation for the industry, meeting some of the people who manufacture the products they sell and learning more about what goes into the development and manufacturing of equipment.”
Ouellette also emphasized the value of connecting and traveling with other dealers while in China. “I predict that each of our travelers will develop some long-term friendships with fellow dealers that will serve as resources for many years to come,” he adds. “BTA has always been in the business of presenting opportunities for dealers to connect so that they can learn from one another. Our trip to China will provide an unparalleled occasion for them to do so in a captivating setting that is far removed from our daily routine.”
Complete details on the BTA trip to China are available on the association’s Website. Visit www.bta.org/ChinaTrip.
Konica Minolta Releases bizhub PRO 951
June 19, 2012 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. has launched the bizhub PRO 951 Monochrome Production Print System, a professional production print system that features superior image quality, fail-safe paper handling and long-run reliability all in a manageable footprint, according to a Konica Minolta pressrelease. Building upon the technology of the bizhub PRO 1200, the new bizhub PRO 951 is a ideal black and white digital solution for environments ranging from high-volume offices to professional print shops.
Delivering monochrome prints at up to 95 pages per minute (5,700 pages per hour), high maximum paper capacity of 9,000 sheets, and high toner capacity, the bizhub PRO 951 offers maximum productivity with minimal user intervention, says Konica Minolta. The company’s Simitri HD polymerized toner reportedly delivers sharper text, more accurate graphics and smooth, realistic halftones. With tandem printing capability, users can connect two units to process one job in parallel for an output speed of 190 pages per minute, and the standard built-in print controller of the bizhub PRO 951 provides job processing with no additional footprint. Modular inline finishing options, flexible paper handling and expanded paper capacity makes the bizhub PRO 951 a valuable, fully-customizable productivity resource.
Another advantage of the bizhub PRO 951 is its all-in-one staple finisher (FS-532), with modular plug-in options for saddle-stitch booklet-making, 2/3-hole punching and post-insertion. In addition, the PRO 951 will support attachment of the new GP-502 GBC (available early Fall 2012) ring binder that enables users to make punched/bound booklets in line.
Print Audit Releases Copy Audit Touch 6.1.0 for Print Audit 6
June 19, 2012 – Print Audit has released a free downloadable update for all Copy Audit Touch users which features greater ease of use and fixes for issues found in previous releases. Copy Audit Touch is a copy tracking system that integrates seamlessly with Print Audit 6 and offers alphanumeric capability, color and monochrome tracking, as well as flexible hardware options.
In this version, Print Audit has improved Copy Audit’s support for Sharp devices as well as made several enhancements to the user interface. Additionally, eight minor issues found in previous releases have been corrected. Visit www.printaudit.com/software-updates.asp?id=9 for more detailed information about the changes in this release and upgrade to Copy Audit Touch 6.1.0.
Clover Holdings Issues Third Annual Sustainability Report
June 18, 2012 – Clover Holdings, Inc., a provider of vertically integrated, closed loop environmental solutions has issued its third annual sustainability report. This third annual sustainability report is aligned with Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) sustainability reporting guidelines and encompasses Clover’s global operations. The report examines the environmental impact of Clover’s global collections, remanufacturing, and recycling operations as well as its key social impacts. Findings in the Report Include:
• Clover collected over 76 million units including cartridges, cell phones, small electronics and printer components
• Clover’s ink cartridges contain 97-percent post-consumer recycled content
• Clover’s reuse efforts diverted over 33 million pounds of material from landfill
“We appreciate that our role as industry leaders should be marked not only by fiscal success but by environmental stewardship, says Jim Cerkleski, CEO of Clover. “By collecting more, we were able to ensure 56 million pounds of material was kept from landfill. By adding facilities in new geographic locations, we reduced the distance traveled by our collections which significantly lessened the carbon impact of that movement. By growing our operations in the consumer electronics space, we were able to provide an environmentally responsible solution for potentially hazardous waste products and the assurance that our customer’s personal data would be safely managed. ”
To view Clover’s 2011 Sustainability Report, visit www.clovertech.com/flashpages/sustainability_report
COT Holdings Upgrades to EFI Monarch MIS Product Suite to Streamline Operations
June 18, 2012 – EFI has announced that commercial and packaging printer COT Holdings Limited of Barbados is now running EFI Monarch and EFI PrintFlow to streamline operations and reduce costs. The company is also using EFI PrinterSite Internal and is currently installing EFI Digital StoreFront and EFI Auto-Count to bring greater efficiencies.
In business since 1975, COT Holdings provides full-service design, printing and marketing services to English-speaking customers in the Caribbean. The company has been steadily growing, in particular in package and wide-format printing. COT Holdings was a Prism user and then decided to make the switch to EFI Monarch.
“EFI Monarch is a very powerful, extraordinarily robust system, and we’re seeing huge gains in efficiencies, especially on the scheduling front with the integration to EFI PrintFlow,” says Nigel Worme, CEO and managing director of COT Holdings. “PrintFlow gives us a clear picture of the shop floor workflow, without the need to print and post schedules, which used to take up a lot of production management’s time each day.”
PrinterSite Internal is also providing COT Holdings with more accurate pricing and the ability to more quickly give estimates to customers, in turn increasing their satisfaction. The company is now installing the Digital StoreFront web-to-print platform and Auto-Count direct machine interface as the next steps in their operational improvement plan.
“Digital StoreFront will allow us to maximize our digital equipment investments,” comments Worme. “It will reduce our estimating requirements and ensure consistent pricing for customers, while Auto-Count will further streamline our shop floor workflow. We look forward to getting the systems up and running soon.”
Darrell Leven joins US Fleet Tracking as Business Development Director
June 15, 2012 – US Fleet Tracking (www.usft.com) recently announced that Darrell Leven has been appointed to the newly created position of business development director. US Fleet Tracking is a global provider of LIVE asset and vehicle tracking and is the pioneer in sub-ten-second tracking services functionality. Fleet management products and services can be utilized as a standalone software solution direct from US Fleet Tracking or can be provided by an authorized TotalView Dispatch partner integration software company.
In his new role, Leven will be responsible for expanding the development of reseller integration partnerships with software solution providers thru the recently introduced SMART Partner Integration Program. The program provides software companies the ability to quickly add GPS Fleet Management to their software offerings, adding value to their client base through real-time dispatch data integration with GPS data.
Prior to joining US Fleet Tracking, Leven served in key sales, marketing and management leadership roles in the copy/print dealer software industry with companies including Modern Business Systems, OMD Corporation, Automated Dispatch Systems and most recently FMAudit.
Current US Fleet Tracking Total View Dispatch partners in the copy/print industry include Digital Gateway e-automate and MWA Intelligence.
Supplies Network Enhances Managed Print Portal
June 14, 2012 – Supplies Network has announced several new enhancements to MyPrinterManager.com. MyPrinterManager.com is Supplies Network’s online portal where, with the click of a button, dealers can view everything they need to know about their customer’s print environment. These enhancements include the ability to:
· Use the new Dealer Customer Dashboard sales funnel tool listing details and status on all active contracts and prospect opportunities
· View all devices under management with current supply levels and tracking of upcoming and previous shipments
· Service Tickets – consolidate and simplify management of all tickets in one easy to use portal
· Request new Data Collection installs
· View Stale Environments (before customers are even aware) showing an updated list of any printers that are not reporting in the software
· View and simplify CPI Invoicing all in one consolidated area showing a detailed report of each device with meters, price per page, etc.
“The enhancements to MyPrinterManager.com hit a key milestone in shaping the success of our dealers and their customers by enabling and streamlining key stages in the managed print process,” says Doug Johnson, Senior Vice President of Managed Print Services.
“Our dealers are busy and need a way to proactively manage the many details involved in getting the most out of their customers’ print environment,” adds Sarah Custer, MPS Solutions Team Leader. “Every account has a personal MPS Advisor to walk them through the initial set up and, then, offer ongoing education and training to constantly find the best solutions for each of their customers. Supplies Network will offer a series of three (3) webinars to educate our dealers about the benefits of our portal and how easy it truly is to offer managed print services to their customers.”
The Webinar series begins in June. Interested participants can contact their MPS Solutions Advisor or click on the links below to sign up:
Tuesday, June 26th – 2 PM central time – www2.gotomeeting.com/register/824269634
Wednesday, June 27th – 10 AM central time – www2.gotomeeting.com/register/754610522
Thursday, July 12th – 11 AM central time – www2.gotomeeting.com/register/298968610
Print Management Solutions Group Announces Updates to MPS Sales Education Workshop and Upcoming Schedule
June 11, 2012 – Print Management Solutions Group, a division of Learning Outsource Group, a provider of corporate training solutions to the office technology industry, recently announced updates to its MPS sales education workshop, Selling Managed Print Services. Tom Cooke, president of PMSG stated, “With the continued transformation in the industry, we continually evaluate all workshop deliverables to ensure that the program maintains its best in class status. We look at all of our programs every six months to verify that learning objectives are being met.”
The company also announced that their advanced consultative sales education program, Slow Down, Sell Faster, is gaining significant traction in the managed services space.
Print Management Solutions Group also announced additional open enrollment training dates:
- Selling Managed Print Services, July 11-12, 2012, Daventry, UK
- Selling Managed Print Services, August 7-8, 2012, Atlanta, GA
- Sales Management Leadership Program, August 22-24, 2012, Chicago, IL
More information is available online at www.printmanagementsolutionsgroup.com or by calling (800) 403-9379.
DocuWare Group Further Expands Market Position
June 14, 2012 – In fiscal year 2011, DocuWare, document management specialist, again achieved double-digit growth. The greatest boost was seen in the German market, with an increase of 21%, followed by the US market with just under 19%. Worldwide, 1047 new companies chose DocuWare.
According to a press announcement, last year, DocuWare laid the cornerstone for securing the company’s continued growth – sales activities in key markets were intensified, many new dealers were added and several future-oriented technologies introduced. Those measures made an impact in 2011: 16.07 million Euros revenue, for a total increase of 12.4 % (13.6 % when adjusted for currency) over the previous year. The software company achieved its best results since DocuWare’s founding in 1988. Resulting project revenue for its network of Authorized DocuWare Partners (ADPs) was 74 million Euros.
The largest revenue increase was witnessed in the German market with growth of 21%. DocuWare Corporation also achieved strong growth of 18.6% in the Americas market. In the EMEA region (which includes Europe without Germany and the United Kingdom), Spain and France contributed the largest share for revenue levels comparable with the previous year. Almost half of the 1047 new customers are located in the Americas.
The document management market continues to grow. According to industry association BITKOM, the document and enterprise content management market grew by 7.8% in 2011 – almost twice as fast as the overall IT market. DocuWare has benefited for years from this trend. The company is also the first document management solutions provider in Europe to offer real cloud solutions since the beginning of 2012: DocuWare Online. In addition, DocuWare already offers document management clients for all popular mobile platforms, from iPhone and iPad to BlackBerry and Windows Phone 7 to Android operating systems for smart phones and tablets.
With Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital LP (a Morgan Stanley Investment Management private equity fund) investing in the company, DocuWare has substantially expanded its international network of outstanding experts in technology and Internet business. A newly formed board made up of seven members will greatly contribute to helping the company further accelerate its growth in the coming years.
Aficio MP 301SPF
Ricoh Introduces New A4 MFPs Built on A3 Technology Platform
June 11, 2012 – Ricoh Americas Corporation today unveiled a new class of MFPs that they say pack the power of the new technology platform Ricoh announced last week into the compact and affordable A4 class. The breakthrough is expressed in Ricoh’s new tiltable 4.3-inch color touch panel, which is an enhancement to the A4 line’s traditional 4-line LCD display. The new interface enables seamless interoperation with a wide range of new applications that solve information management problems. It also offers first-ever integration with Ricoh software solutions (e.g., cost recovery, device management, document management and advanced security) previously available only through A3 platforms.
Ricoh has also introduced two flagship devices from the new A4 line, the Ricoh Aficio MP C305 Series, a color MFP, and the Ricoh Aficio MP 301SPF monochrome MFP, both of which print 31 pages per minute. The compact devices offer a full range of print/copy/scan/fax capabilities for high productivity, security and advanced distribution.
The new control panel is customizable for each department, workgroup or user workflow. Users can create a personal start page that includes shortcut functions for their most popular workflow processes and settings. Operated through this interface, the new technology platform on which these MFPs are built is designed to allow access to the Web, seamlessly integrate with cloud services, as well as support a wide range of future applications that solve customer business problems and generate true business value.
The MP C305 is the most energy-efficient imaging product in both Ricoh’s history and in the industry’s A3/A4 21-35 ppm color MFP class, according to Ricoh. It reduces energy consumption while providing high productivity with a best-in-class sleep recovery of less than 10 seconds, best-in-class 1.2kWh/week typical electricity consumption (TEC) value, and a first-copy time of 6.9 seconds (black and white) and 10.8 seconds (color). The MP 301SPF offers similar efficiency.
Also unique to the industry is Ricoh’s new Eco-Friendly Indicator, standard on the MP C305 and MP 301SPF, which helps individual users monitor how much paper they’re saving. An attractive icon grows virtual leaves to reward users for being greener, which saves the organization money while conserving natural resources. Organizations can also set paper quotas for individuals or groups.
Both MFPs include mobile printing capabilities for users of all the standard smart phones and tablets. As the workforce becomes more mobile, these printers fully support the bring-your-own-device (“BYOD”) culture.
To assist with the right level of security for current business environments, the MP C305 and MP 301SPF help enable organizations to require users to prove their identities prior to obtaining documents from the system. Users can also attach digital signatures to documents before distribution and encrypt documents or address books residing on the MFP.
The MP C305 Series is available for an MSRP of $4,420 and the MP 301SPF is available for an MSRP of $2,960.
EPSON Announces Expression Home XP-400 Small-in-One
June 12, 2012 – Epson America has announced the EPSON Expression Home XP-400 Small-in-One printer, featuring all-in-one performance in a sleek compact footprint. The sub-$100 wireless Small-in-One offers a 2.5″ color LCD with touch panel, built-in memory card slots for PC-free photo printing and instant-dry DURABrite Ultra ink. In addition, the Expression XP-400 is equipped with EPSON Connect, Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print for wireless printing on-the-go from smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices.
Epson offers several ways to print from tablets and smartphones with EPSON Connect.
· Email Print – Remotely send documents and photos directly to an EPSON printer’s unique e-mail address to print from a smartphone or other mobile device
· EPSON iPrint – Print web pages, Microsoft Office documents, photos, and PDFs over a wireless network with this free app; also scan and save files on a mobile device, send it as an e-mail or upload it to a cloud service such as Box.net, Dropbox, Evernote or Google Docs
· Apple AirPrint – Print e-mails, photos, web pages, and documents from an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch; no software, drivers or cables to connect
· Google Cloud Print – Print from an Android smartphone or tablet with a Gmail or Google Docs account and other supported apps; also print from Chromebooks and the Google Chrome browser
The Epson Expression Home XP-400 has a suggested retail price of $99.99.
OKI Rolls Out A4 Monochrome MFPs
June 11, 2012 — OKI Data Americas has announced the availability of the company’s second generation series of A4 monochrome multifunction printers. The MB461, MB471, MB471w and MB491 models combine a powerful feature set with advanced multifunction capabilities at a competitive acquisition cost paired with a low total cost of ownership, according to OKI. The MB401 MFP Series is reportedly ideal for demanding small- and mid-sized workgroups, offering economical and versatile printing capabilities all within a compact device.
The MB401 Series builds off of the success of OKI’s MB460 and MB470 A4 monochrome multifunction printers, and offers users increased print speeds, longer consumable life, improved front panel graphical display, scan-to capabilities, and wireless functionality (MB471w). The MB401 Series also offers eco-friendly attributes, including LED technology, standard duplex, auto power off and ultra-low energy consumption. All features and functionality are designed to optimize performance within small to mid-sized workgroups.
The MB461, MB471 and MB471w provide a print speed of 35 ppm while the MB491 delivers 42 ppm. The MB461 provides three-in-one (print/copy/scan) multifunction capability along with 780-sheet maximum paper capacity. The MB471, MB471w and M491 provide four-in-one (print/copy/scan/fax) multifunction capability along with 880 sheet maximum paper capacity. Additionally, all of the MB401 models are backed by a one-year On-Site limited warranty.
The user interface of the MB401 Series has also been improved to increase ease-of-handling and efficiency. Each model includes a 3.5-inch graphical panel display with tilt mechanism. The MB471, MB471w and MB491 also come equipped with a QWERTY keypad along with one-touch fax button capabilities. Furthermore, the MB471 models and the MB491 include a Job Macro function that records and instantly recalls frequently used tasks and settings—automating them for increased productivity and efficiency. Additionally, the MB491 comes standard with a 4 GB SD memory card, to accommodate Secure Print (PIN/password job protection).
MSRP of the MB461 is $349, MB471 is $399, MB471w is $475, and MB491 is $499.
OKI Announces A3 Color MFPs
June 11, 2012 — OKI Data Americas has announced the availability of the CX3535/4545 A3 copier-based color MFPs. Designed for medium- to large-sized workgroups the CX3535/4545 models combine versatility, security and energy-efficiency with the ability to streamline document workflow processes through the consolidation of office equipment into a single device.
The CX3535/4545 models have toner yields among the highest in their class, according to OKI. Additionally, they feature an open platform software architecture that allows customers and solution partners to create customized MFP solutions that meet their specific business needs. By expanding the integration capabilities of these MFPs with a host of business applications such as Google Docs, Microsoft SharePoint, and Microsoft Exchange, OKI says customers can increase efficiencies with document management workflows and output management solutions.
The CX3535/4545 MFPs provide media flexibility for tabloid and banner printing up to 47 inches in length. High device security gives customers confidence that data is secure, while the managed print service-ready hardware enables users to efficiently manage workflow processes. The new units also offer duplex printing.
The CX3535/4545 models are equipped with standard configuration and additional options that allow customers to customize their unit to meet individual business needs. Standard configurations include two paper trays able to hold 550 sheets each, reversing automatic document feeder (RADF) and a bypass tray of 100 sheets. A 550-sheet paper feed pedestal and 2,500-sheet large capacity feeder are available for the CX3535 and CX4545 models, respectively.
OKI Presents the PT390 Series of Label/POS Printers
June 11, 2012 — OKI Data Americas has introduced the PT390 Series, PT330/PT331 and LD670 Label/POS printers. Each of these new printers was designed to optimize performance within demanding work environments such as manufacturing, retail, hospitality, healthcare and transportation.
The PT330/PT331 models and PT390 Series are thermal POS receipt and can be placed horizontally or vertically, with the PT330 also able to be wall-mounted, making both products adaptable for businesses with limited space. Built for demanding environments, the PT390 Series can accommodate a variety of media types and paper sizes, meeting critical point-of-service needs including receipt, coupon and ticket printing.
The LD670 direct thermal label printer offers a compact design and unique front exit paper path, making it ideal for locations where space is at a premium. Combining high print speeds and versatility, the LD670 is able to print on a variety of media, meeting each customer’s individual label printing needs. The unique thermal control technology provides a cost-effective and flexible means of printing small labels including retail price stickers, food expiry labels, medical test tube stickers and small packaging labels.
Ricoh Releases New Technology Platform
June 6, 2012 – Ricoh Americas Corporation has launched a series of next-generation MFPs built on a new technology platform designed to seamlessly interface with the Web, cloud services and a wide range of applications that help solve customer business problems and generate true business value.
According to a company news release, the new platform alters the very nature of a printer/copier/scanner/fax device, embodying Ricoh’s focus on customer productivity. “We’ve created a new generation of intelligent MFPs with a workstation-class computing platform inside and an interface that focuses that power on each individual’s most important work,” says Mike Dane, vice president, marketing, for Ricoh Americas Corporation. “The MFP has become a full-fledged, two-way engine of the corporate information ecosystem, providing a robust portal for users to input, process and output information. Its new applications empower today’s workplace where, among other things, workers are increasingly mobile and bringing their own device into the work environment.”
The next-generation platform enhances business performance through a host of new capabilities designed to help improve workflow, cost of ownership, sustainability, security, compliance and accessibility. The platform creates a new benchmark for ease of use with a full-color touchscreen operating panel customizable for each department, workgroup or user’s workflow. Users can create a personal start page that includes shortcut functions for their most popular workflow processes and settings. A built-in MFP Web browser enables users to navigate and print from the Web, and allows for access to cloud services, including applications for document capture, management, storage, processing (e.g., OCR), printing, sharing, customer relationship management and more.
The platform includes wireless mobile printing capabilities for users of all the standard smart phones and tablets. A new eco-friendly indicator displays, by user or organization, key metrics to stimulate environmentally (and financially) responsible resource use. For example, it reports paper volume reductions and eco-friendly behaviors such as duplexing and N-up printing (e.g., two or more pages per side). It rewards users with green-leaf icons for making good choices over time.
The new MFP technology platform offers a variety of security technologies. These technologies include unauthorized copy control, which helps secure copying of confidential documents by embedding a pattern or message in documents that becomes visible when copied, and mandatory hold, which requires a user to authenticate at the device when printing the document. Flexible time-of-day controls help enforce safe printing patterns, e.g., hold at night, print automatically during the day, and forward during lunch. The new technology platform also offers stronger (256-bit) address book/job encryption and a data overwrite system that lets administrators destroy all stored data when an MFP changes hands. Other features include Bates stamping, which enables legal, medical, insurance, financial and other workers to scan enterprise documents into file management systems using sequential numbering schemes. Finally, the new MFPs support the Adobe PDF/A format, required by many government agencies for long-term document archiving, and digital signatures for accountability.
The following MFP models are built on the new MFP technology platform:
• Ricoh Aficio MP 4002/MP 5002 Series black and white devices
• Ricoh Aficio MP C3002/MP C3502 Series color MFPs
• Ricoh Aficio MP C4502/MP C5502 Series color MFPs
Xerox Announces Black & White Printers for Small Offices
June 5, 2012 – Xerox has released the WorkCentre 3315/3325 multifunction printers and thePhaser 3320 printer that can produce up to 33 and 37 pages-per-minute, respectively. First-page out time is up to 6.5 seconds on each machine. For larger print jobs, an optional second paper tray lets users load an extra 520 sheets at one time. Image quality is 1200 x 1200 dpi.
The WorkCentre 3325 and Phaser 3320 come standard with internal Wi-Fi connectivity. The devices feature standard two-sided printing. Additional features include secure print; color scanning on the MFPs, including scan-to-email, network scanning, and scan to USB memory devices; color faxing and speed dial; and remote device management, which is handled from a computer browser with Xerox CentreWare IS.
The estimated retail price for the WorkCentre 3315/3325 MFP is $449 and $599. The Phaser 3320 starts at $399.
Sd|University to Hold MPS Sales Workshops at KATUN US Headquarters August 7-9
June 5, 2012 – Sd|University, the advanced training division of Strategy Development, is conducting their award-winning MPS training at the Katun Headquarters in Bloomington, MN. The SD MPS Sales Workshop will take place on August 7-8, followed by the SD MPS Advanced Sales Workshop on August 9, 2012.
For dealers that are a sd|University member company, this is one of the portfolio of educational experiences their sales and management team should attend. If a dealer is not enrolled in the tuition program, they can still attend Strategy Development’s education by enrolling for the individual classes. This is available at the lowest individual class investment in the industry, according to Strategy Development.
The two-day class, SD MPS Sales Workshop, will be led by Callinan and will cover the MPS sales process for both small, fewer than 25 devices, and mid-sized, 50 – 250 devices, companies. Your sales team will learn the proper contact level and value proposition based on company size; how to get an appointment at the correct level; how to identify the areas of pain associated with the print environment based on company size; how to conduct an effective and efficient assessment to support the business case for a change; how to price a transaction, both outsourced and equipment led; and finally, how to present a winning proposal. For more details visit www.strategydevelopment.com/mpsfundamentals.
The one-day SD MPS Advanced Sales class, also led by Callinan, will focus solely on the quarterly business review (QBR), a process Strategy Development introduced to the MPS community. With proper execution of the QBR you will consistently gain share of wallet within your customers’ accounts. For a full class description, please www.strategydevelopment.com/mpsadvanced.
All sd|University classes can be held at a dealer’s location for larger groups. For more information on sd|University and how the tuition program works and how it stacks up against the competition please visit www.sd-university.com. For more information or to register for the SD MPS classes, visit www.strategydevelopment.com/mpsfundamentals or contact Tom Callinan at callinan@strategydevelopment.com or at (610) 527-3317.
