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Do You Know How to Choose Managed IT Services?
May 13, 2022 12:35 am Leave a Comment
Managed IT services comes with a lot of options, decisions, and opportunities. To get the most out of your investment, it’s important to make the right call–or, perhaps more precisely, the right calls. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right paths when it comes to managed IT services!

Managed IT services comes with a lot of options, decisions, and opportunities. To get the most out of your investment, it’s important to make the right call–or, perhaps more precisely, the right calls. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right paths when it comes to managed IT services!

Deciding on Managed IT Services

The idea behind managed IT services is to make your life easier by supporting and protecting your IT environment. To get to that point, though, you have to make a few big decisions, which doesn’t always feel easy.

Luckily, there are ways to make sure you get the most out of managed IT. Just break your decisions into three basic categories:

The service

The first decisions to focus on are those about the service itself. What do you need from managed IT services? What do you want a managed IT provider to do for your company? Some services are all-inclusive, helping you manage devices, implement IT strategies, and more, while others are simpler and focused more exclusively on devices or network connections. Just remember to consider both current and future needs when making your choices.

The company

Next, you need to choose a managed IT services provider to be your partner in tech. You should ask a lot of questions to make sure this provider is a good fit–for example, you need to know how you’d be able to reach them, what their response times are, how long they’ve been in business, whether they have references, and more. Keep in mind that a good provider will be eager to learn about you, too–that’s how you know they actually care about your business and needs.

The pricing

One of the benefits of managed IT is a flat rate for your IT solutions instead of the piecemeal cost of paying for repairs, maintenance, upgrades, and other needs on your own. However, that flat rate depends on how robust the service is, and some providers will work with you to explore payment plans and options. The good news is that managed IT services often helps pay for itself by saving money, reducing waste, and reducing the costs associated with downtime.

Conclusion

There are plenty of decisions to be made when it comes to managed IT services, but the most important one is this: Are you ready to get started? Once you’ve taken that first step, the other choices become a little bit easier–simply because there are tangible benefits on the horizon.

So, are you ready to get started? Contact us today for help with all your managed IT services decisions!
What to Expect From Document Scanning
May 5, 2022 12:44 am Leave a Comment
Don’t you wish every option in life had a handy guidebook–one that would tell you exactly what to expect and how a certain choice could impact you? Well, that may not be realistic in other areas, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to scanning. Here’s your quick guide on what to expect from scanning solutions!

Don’t you wish every option in life had a handy guidebook–one that would tell you exactly what to expect and how a certain choice could impact you? Well, that may not be realistic in other areas, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to scanning. Here’s your quick guide on what to expect from scanning solutions!

Scanning: Your Simple Guide

The first thing to know about scanning is that it’s a simple concept, but it’s not always a simple process. That’s because scanning solutions are a little different for every company and can change depending on variables like how many files you need to scan or what your organizational goals are. Luckily, scanning comes with so many benefits that it’s definitely worth taking the time to brush up on all the details.

Here are a few things to expect from scanning solutions:
- You’ll rethink your priorities.
You may be interested in scanning because you want to save space in your office or because you’re hoping to make things easier for your teams. Those things will probably happen–but scanning has so much more to offer that you might find yourself rethinking your priorities. For example, scanning is often the first step in digital transformation; could this be your opportunity to finally start going paperless?
- You’ll probably want a shredder.
If you give a business a Canon Scanner, they’ll probably want a shredder to go with it. That’s because it’s common to find documents you don’t want to spend time scanning–but you can’t just throw them away. Naturally, that’s where your shredder will come in handy.
- You’re going to need a team.
Depending on how many files you have, the chances are high that scanning will never be a one-person job. Assemble a team of people with a good eye for organization and ask for their help turning physical files into orderly, easy-to-manage digital documents.
- You can count on almost-endless benefits.
Scanning is the gift that keeps on giving. Once a document is scanned, you can update, edit, share, or distribute it to your heart’s content–not to mention all the security options your physical files never offered.

Conclusion

As you experiment with scanning solutions, you’ll find there’s no single “right” way to get the job done. However, it certainly helps to know what to expect–especially when you’ll need to plan ahead (for example, to choose a shredder or assemble a team).

Ready to start your scanning journey? Contact us today for all the help you need!
3 Big Promises Made By Managed Print Services
April 29, 2022 12:30 am Leave a Comment
Managed print services promises all kinds of benefits for companies like yours. However, three of those benefits really stand out–so today, we’re taking a closer look at what managed print services can do for you.

Managed print services promises all kinds of benefits for companies like yours. However, three of those benefits really stand out–so today, we’re taking a closer look at what managed print services can do for you.

The Managed Print Services Promise

It’s not every day you find a solution that makes promises and shows you exactly how it’s going to fulfill those promises. Managed print services, however, is special.

First, let’s take a look at three of the biggest things managed print promises to do:
- Reduced waste: Wasted time, money, and energy can really impact your budget. Managed print services promises to help reduce this waste by identifying bad habits and suggesting more efficient alternatives.
- Improved visibility: When you don’t know what’s going on in your print environment, it’s difficult to make any forward progress. That’s why managed print promises to help you push back the curtain and find out how your printers are being used, what your habits are, where your money goes, and how you can make effective changes.
- Boosted productivity: Another big promise made by managed print services is boosted productivity. By cutting out extra steps, streamlining your workflows, and simplifying your print environment, this solution helps your employees do their best work.
Now that you know what these promises look like let’s find out how managed print actually delivers.

The secret is the partnership you create with your managed print provider. This partner will guide you through every choice, change, and solution, helping you reach your goals and making sure these three promises are kept. Plus, because your provider performs a print audit at the beginning of your relationship, you’ll always have a benchmark you can use to measure progress and see the promises in action.

Conclusion

Managed print services makes plenty of promises, but unlike other solutions, it keeps them–and, perhaps more importantly, it shows you exactly how it makes progress on those promises. That’s why a strong relationship with your managed print provider is so important: Your provider is responsible for making sure you actually see these benefits.

Contact us today to see what managed print services can do for you!
Sharp Launches New Line of A3 Color Workgroup Document Systems
April 27, 2022 12:44 am Comments Off on Sharp Launches New Line of A3 Color Workgroup Document Systems
MONTVALE, N.J., April 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) announces a new line of color workgroup document systems designed to fit today’s diverse workstyles. Seven new color models, ranging in speeds of 26 – 45 pages per minute, are the first in a new series comprising a total of 22 color and monochrome models that will be rolled out over the coming months. These models offer intelligent features and connectivity that enable office workers to collaborate with colleagues seamlessly and securely, even when they are working remotely.

Enhanced cloud service connectivity, such as with Microsoft Teams, make it easy to streamline communication and native Microsoft Universal Print capability facilitate integration with Microsoft 365 environments that leverage simplified print management.

The new Advanced and Essentials Series utilize the latest technology to help users get work done with greater efficiency. Innovative features such as multi-feed scan detection and enhanced auto skew correction, help ensure jobs come out right the first time, every time. Users can scan documents at up to 280 images-per-minute with the 300-sheet duplexing single pass feeder on Advanced Series models. The new inner folding unit offers a variety of fold patterns, including tri-fold, z-fold and others without taking up any extra floor space. Organizations can also maximize productivity with easy access to expanded cloud services, quickly connect to mobile devices to print and scan files and even utilize touchless operation with the Sharp Synappx Go app.

Leading security technology is also built into the new Advanced and Essentials Series to help organizations protect their data. Features, such as system integrity check at startup, firmware attack prevention with self recovery, as well as optional Bitdefender® antivirus (coming this summer) will help provide protection from hackers and malicious intruders.

“With the launch of this new A3 color workgroup product line, Sharp continues to Invest in its product offerings with leading technology, features and value,” says Shane Coffey, vice president, Product Marketing, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We are proud to offer the new Advanced and Essentials Series workgroup document systems, which offer leading, competitive features and outstanding performance.”

The new Advanced and Essential Series will begin shipping in mid-April with seven models, followed by four additional models later this summer and the remaining models in the fall. Models shipping in April are the: BP-70C31, BP-70C36, BP-70C45, BP-50C26, BP-50C31, BP-50C36 and BP-50C45. Models can be purchased directly through Sharp or through an authorized dealership.
Konica Minolta Launches MarketPlace Universal Print App
12:41 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches MarketPlace Universal Print App
Ramsey, NJ, (April 20, 2022) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced its free Universal Print App is now available in the Konica Minolta MarketPlace. The Universal Print solution frees IT admins from managing on-premise printing assets and print servers. Konica Minolta’s bizhub i-Series multi-function printers (MFP) support Universal Print as a Universal Print native printer. By integrating its MFPs and the Microsoft 365 environment, clients can reduce print-related costs and benefit from this seamless and productive printing experience.

Konica Minolta first announced it would offer solutions to utilize Universal Print from Microsoft in 2020. Universal Print is a modern print solution organizations can use to manage their print infrastructure through cloud services from Microsoft. It runs entirely on Microsoft Azure, and when deployed with Universal Print–compatible printers, it does not require any on-premises infrastructure. It can be deployed with non-compatible printers by using Universal Print connector software. Universal Print is a Microsoft 365 subscription-based service.

“The transition to remote work has increased businesses’ need for cloud-based print architecture, and Universal Print technology from Microsoft allows us to enhance our cloud printing services while also reducing costs and increasing productivity for our clients,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “We are pleased to now offer even easier access through the Konica Minolta MarketPlace App, ensuring all our Microsoft 365 users can take advantage of having a simple and secure printing environment.”

Konica Minolta bizhub i-Series MFPs give IT admins more control over printer access rights by seamlessly and securely connecting to the Microsoft 365 environment. Everyday users who are authenticated and authorized by Azure Active Directory can access and execute print jobs from a Konica Minolta MFP that is shared on the Azure environment by registering their i-Series printer as a shared printer on the Azure portal and downloading the Konica Minolta MarketPlace Universal Print app to the MFP.

To add more value to Universal Print, Konica Minolta’s multifunction printers provide hybrid print solutions and unified technology of on-premise and cloud printing. These include print management, secure printing and print-from-anywhere including home office to make remote work efficient. Combined with Universal Print, the solutions allow for a smooth digital transformation from on-premise to cloud that keeps pace with each client’s maturity level.

Konica Minolta’s bizhub i-Series MFPs support direct printing through Universal Print and the new Universal Print App found in the Konica Minolta MarketPlace. Learn more about the bizhub i-Series online.
Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress 6272P
12:39 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress 6272P
Ramsey, NJ, (April 19, 2022) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in industrial and commercial printing and packaging solutions, today announced the release of its AccurioPress 6272P press, designed to help customers rethink monochrome print possibilities. Commercial printers, print-for-pay services and central in-house printing operations are all major target markets for the fully configured digital production press, which replaces the bizhub PRESS 2250P.

Based on the highly successful single-engine AccurioPress 6136P, this flagship monochrome digital press utilizes dual-engine technology that enables printing more than 16,000 images per hour (ipm). Customers benefit from the AccurioPress 6272P’s best-in-class durability, reliability, productivity, efficiency and automation while optimizing their investment through a low total cost of ownership (TCO) compared to similar speed devices.

The AccurioPress 6272P prints 272 ipm duplex to meet tight print deadlines and supports a wide range of media, including coated and uncoated stock in weights from 40 gsm up to 350 gsm and ranging from 3.74” x 5.24” to 12.76” x 19.02”. With a maximum input capacity of 18,000 sheets and a maximum output capacity of up to 18,600 sheets with three high-capacity stackers, the press delivers long, uninterrupted runs.

The tandem-engine combination, achieved through the tandem relay unit (TD-502), provides twice the speed and double the productivity in one integrated production process that offers superior image quality and a wide range of automated features. The press uses LED print heads at 1,200 x 1,200 dpi with technology to ensure smaller fonts are crisp and halftones are smooth, producing stunning monochrome text and images.

As with the AccurioPress 6136P series, the 6272P uses CIE color space when converting color documents to black and white, creating richer gradations than conventional conversion. Independent front-to-back alignment and a distortion-adjustment function ensure accurate duplex registration for book blocks, technical documents and more. The newly developed pass-through mode secures production in the rare case of a machine error, and the standard paper-cooling system enables all output to be processed immediately offline after printing.

Enhanced Efficiency by Automation

For printing companies looking to integrate their printing, and organizations that use digital printing to produce their own in-house publications and promotional materials, AccurioPro, Konica Minolta’s suite of digital solutions for professional printing, boosts speed and efficiency, expands capabilities and services and reduces the need for operational manpower. Together, these features streamline customers’ print jobs and help to boost their profitability.

A stacking unit and a wide variety of finishing options with an interface to third-parties such as Plockmatic and GBC, enhance the 6272P’s speed and productivity for high-demand printing environments to create print products that stand out and create added value. The press is also compatible with the IQ-501 for managing front-to-back registration and gradation. Additionally with the TD-502, customers can upgrade their existing AccurioPress 6136P and double its productivity to that of the AccurioPress 6272P.

“This launch represents another great example of how Konica Minolta supports its clients’ digital transformation through advanced automation, fewer human touchpoints and higher productivity with tangible effects that lead to increased, high-quality output with less waste,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “Combining features such as the AccurioPro Print Manager, TD-502 tandem relay unit and IQ-501 for registration ensure this system meets customer demands in high-volume printing environments.”
Your Multifunction Printer Needs These 3 Things
April 21, 2022 1:27 am Leave a Comment
Ready to choose a multifunction printer? Not so fast–there are three things your machine absolutely needs, and if you decide on one that falls short of these elements, you might not get all the benefits you were hoping for. Here’s what to know!

Ready to choose a multifunction printer? Not so fast–there are three things your machine absolutely needs, and if you decide on one that falls short of these elements, you might not get all the benefits you were hoping for. Here’s what to know!

Best Multifunction Printer Elements

You probably know by now that multifunction printers are known for their bells and whistles. After all, their claim to fame is that they can print, fax, copy, and scan, all in the same place, but they should be able to do plenty of other things.

As you search for the perfect multifunction printer, be on the lookout for these three elements that can make or break your printing experience:

Appropriate speed and power

Speed is important when it comes to multifunction printers, but so is power. The best way to approach this question is to think about your needs. How often do you have high-speed, high-volume print jobs? How many people could be waiting to use the printer at one time? In general, it’s best to err on the side of “fast and powerful.”

Effective features

Your multifunction printer shouldn’t just scan, copy, print, or fax and call it a day. Make sure to brush up on all available features–like finishing options–and choose those that will create the most benefits, both now and in the future.

Connectivity

A good multifunction printer should play nice with your other devices and systems. That’s especially important if you’re interested in mobile printing, which is a great tool for hybrid or remote workforces. Just make sure you find a make and model that prioritizes connectivity!

Conclusion

The good news about the multifunction printer shopping experience is that the three most important elements–speed/power, features, and connectivity–aren’t difficult to find. The only thing you need to do is brush up on your options so you can be confident you’ve made the best choice for your business.

Looking for that perfect multifunction printer? We’ve got you covered. Contact us today for help choosing the right machine!
How to Choose a Managed IT Services Provider
April 14, 2022 11:07 pm Leave a Comment
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to managed IT services, but perhaps the most important decision you’ll make is which provider to go with. That choice isn’t always easy–so here are a few tips to help you end up with a partner you can trust!

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to managed IT services, but perhaps the most important decision you’ll make is which provider to go with. That choice isn’t always easy–so here are a few tips to help you end up with a partner you can trust!

Understanding Managed IT Services Providers

What is a managed IT services provider, anyway?

A provider is a company that acts as your partner in tech. When you outsource your IT support, they’re the ones who take responsibility for issues big and small–which is why it’s so important to find a provider you trust.

Ideally, a provider should begin your relationship by performing an audit or analysis of your tech environment. That way, they have all the information they need to make recommendations, choose solutions, and help you overcome any specific pain points. This doesn’t mean they should “take over,” though. Remember, this is a partnership–so you should be able to make requests or changes whenever you want.

The Right Managed IT Services Provider

So, now you know what a managed IT services provider should look like–how do you find one that fits the bill? Here are a few things to look for:

#1: Reliability

Most managed IT providers say they’re reliable, but only some of them can back up this claim with facts. Look for providers with long histories and glowing testimonials to prove how reliable they are.

#2: Expertise

IT is complicated and fast-moving. The right provider will have expertise in a variety of tech fields, which means you’ll never get stuck with unanswered questions or problems no one can solve.

#3: A connection

Naturally, a managed IT services provider should be good at IT–but they also need to have a good connection with you. If they don’t communicate clearly or don’t seem friendly, they’re probably not the right partner for your company.

In conclusion, a managed IT services provider should be your partner in tech. To choose that partner, look for qualities like reliability and expertise–and don’t forget how important it is to have a real connection.

Want to learn more about managed IT services? Looking for the right provider? Contact us today!
3 Ways to Use Scanning Solutions
April 9, 2022 2:12 am Leave a Comment
It’s easy to hear the word “scanning” and get so distracted by the work itself that you forget why you actually started this journey in the first place. In fact, you’ve probably spent so much time looking for the right machine and crunching numbers that you may have forgotten the fun part–which is deciding how you get to actually use your new scanning solutions. Here are a few ideas to get you started!

It’s easy to hear the word “scanning” and get so distracted by the work itself that you forget why you actually started this journey in the first place. In fact, you’ve probably spent so much time looking for the right machine and crunching numbers that you may have forgotten the fun part–which is deciding how you get to actually use your new scanning solutions. Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Endless Opportunities with Scanning Solutions

The truth about scanning is that it’s full of opportunity. Even if you buy a scanner for just one purpose, you’re sure to find more ways of using your new machine down the road. Better yet, scanning is one of those solutions that has real staying power–which means it’s not going “out of style” any time soon (or maybe ever).

Although the possibilities are just about endless, here are three quick ideas to get the ball rolling:
- #1: Finally fulfill that New Year’s resolution.
If you’ve been promising for years that you’ll get organized, scanning is your chance to finally make it happen. After scanning paper documents, you’ll have neat, easy-to-maneuver digital files that can be sorted and searched by title, keyword, date, content, and more.
- #2: Practice your digital signature.
You know how your signature never looks the same when you write it digitally? Scanning allows you to work on that by allowing you to scan and send documents for digital signage. It’s fast, efficient, and a good way to make your autograph look fancy.
- #3: Laugh in the face of paper dangers.
Scanning allows you to create reliable backups of all your files. That means something like a flood, fire, or even accidental loss can no longer take away your most important data, meaning your documents will always be right where you need them.

Conclusion

Scanning opportunities might be virtually endless, but it never hurts to have a place to start. Whether you’re getting organized, giving employees and customers the chance to digitally sign paperwork, or shrugging off potential paper loss like it’s no big deal, scanning is sure to create all kinds of benefits for your business.

Want to see what scanning can do for you? Contact us today to get started!
How Managed Print Services Saves More Than Money
March 22, 2022 8:39 pm Leave a Comment
Many business solutions are all about saving money. That’s hugely important, of course–but if that’s all they do, they’ll quickly run out of steam. Instead, you need a solution that builds a solid foundation for your company, helping you save more than money–and that’s where managed print services comes in.

Many business solutions are all about saving money. That’s hugely important, of course–but if that’s all they do, they’ll quickly run out of steam. Instead, you need a solution that builds a solid foundation for your company, helping you save more than money–and that’s where managed print services comes in.

Saving More With Managed Print Services

Let’s make one thing clear: Managed print services absolutely saves money. The difference between this and other solutions, though, is that managed print services doesn’t stop there. Instead, it creates solutions that help save other valuable resources for your company.

Sound too good to be true? See for yourself:

Saving money

Managed print services saves money in all kinds of ways–but perhaps most importantly, it makes your print costs transparent. When you can see what’s going on in your budget, it’s much easier to be in control.

Saving time

Another thing managed print services saves is time. By simplifying your workflows and cutting out extra steps–not to mention cutting down on technical difficulties, troubleshooting, and downtime–this solution helps keep you efficient and productive.

Saving space

Need a little more breathing room? No problem–managed print services can also help rearrange and structure your fleet to give your workspace that “flow” you’ve been searching for.

Saving energy

You shouldn’t have to waste your energy worrying about print problems. With managed print services on your side, you can shift your focus to the big stuff while your trusted provider handles the rest.

Saving the planet

Managed print services makes it both easy and efficient to choose environmentally friendly solutions like recycled supplies or less wasteful machines.

Conclusion

Sure, it’s important to save money–but managed print services can do that and so much more. If you want to save time, space, energy, and the planet along with your budget, you’ve come to the right place.

Want to see managed print services in action? Contact us today for all the help you need!
Lexmark Named a Leader in IDC MarketScape for Worldwide Cloud MPS Hardcopy
March 19, 2022 8:58 pm Comments Off on Lexmark Named a Leader in IDC MarketScape for Worldwide Cloud MPS Hardcopy
LEXINGTON, Ky., March 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global technology solutions leader, announced today it has been named a leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Cloud MPS Hardcopy 2022 Vendor Assessment (Doc # US47337721, January 2022).

This IDC MarketScape report assesses the market for cloud-based managed print services (MPS) as well as other cloud-based contractual print service models for both enterprise and SMB. Analysts considered the quantitative and qualitative characteristics that position vendors for success in this market, noting the growing demand for hybrid work that has increased the need for usage monitoring, security and remote access to printing and document services.

“Lexmark’s recognition as a Leader in the IDC MarketScape for Cloud MPS validates our ongoing commitment to providing industry-leading cloud and IoT solutions that help customers adapt to the rapidly evolving workplace, including our comprehensive MPS infrastructure, global services delivery platform, and large portfolio of cloud solutions and services,” said Brock Saladin, senior vice president and chief commercial officer, Lexmark.

The IDC MarketScape Vendor Assessment recognized the following strengths for Lexmark:
- Application of Innovative Technologies: According to the report, “Lexmark continues to drive innovation within its overall approach to MPS, with a focus on simplifying all aspects of the print experience. When Lexmark launched its Cloud Print Infrastructure (CPI) as-a-service offering in 2019, it stressed the foundational pillars for a simplified infrastructure for print acquisition, IT management, and user support. With the introduction of its Cloud Bridge platform, Lexmark can now deliver the full range of its managed service offerings in essentially any environment, bringing the value proposition of MPS to a broader range of customers from SMB to enterprise.”
- Cloud-Based Solutions: According to the report, “Lexmark is in a strong position to deliver on the promise of the cloud as organizations look to leverage technology to improve print-related business outcomes and reduce on-premises infrastructure. Those elements that make Lexmark a leader in the MPS space, such as investments in IoT printing hardware, security expertise, and a global service delivery platform, all play an important role in the firm’s ability to lead the markets’ transition to print as a service.”
- Vertical-Specific Expertise: As cited in the report, “Lexmark’s verticalized approach to the market has helped establish the firm as a strong contender for any program where deep integration with existing business systems and applications is important.”
Do You Know How to Choose a Multifunction Printer?
March 16, 2022 12:54 am Leave a Comment
If you think you’d be a pro at choosing the best multifunction printer for your business, you might need to think again. Even long-time printer experts can feel a little overwhelmed by all the thrilling features and fascinating functions offered by these high-tech machines. Here’s what you need to know to shake off the confusion and choose the right multifunction printer!

If you think you’d be a pro at choosing the best multifunction printer for your business, you might need to think again. Even long-time printer experts can feel a little overwhelmed by all the thrilling features and fascinating functions offered by these high-tech machines. Here’s what you need to know to shake off the confusion and choose the right multifunction printer!

Multifunction Printer Shopping: What Not to Do

To show you the best way to choose a multifunction printer for your business, let’s pause for a moment and look at what you shouldn’t do. To model these not-so-great choices, we’ll imagine a hypothetical shopper named Joe.

Joe is passionate about his company. He wants to find solutions that will work for his employees and deliver excellent experiences for his customers. However, unlike you, he didn’t do his research before shopping for a multifunction printer.

Here’s what Joe did wrong.

Mistake #1: Choosing the cheapest device

Joe prides himself on being savvy about his budget. Unfortunately, he forgot to consider the total cost of ownership when buying a multifunction printer. He grabbed the cheapest device he saw–and now he’ll end up paying more in repairs and maintenance, not to mention the money he’ll lose because the new device doesn’t use supplies as efficiently as it should.

Mistake #2: Shopping on instinct

Another mistake Joe made was forgetting to review his company’s needs. He didn’t ask which features and functions would be useful both now and in the future, instead choosing to shop based on whatever caught his eye. The multifunction printer he found is fine, but it doesn’t solve most of his company’s printing problems (and definitely doesn’t make anyone’s life easier, which is what a multifunction printer should do).

Mistake #3: Forgetting about security

When faced with all those fascinating options, Joe got a little distracted. He forgot to research whether this new multifunction printer came with built-in security features, and he certainly didn’t stop to ask if the machine could be integrated into his company’s existing cybersecurity approach. As a result, he’s left with a machine he’ll constantly worry about.

Conclusion

Are you shopping for a multifunction printer? If so, remember not to be like Joe. Do your research, consider the total cost of ownership, review your company’s present and future needs, and always check whether your chosen device has good security features.

Need a little help on your multifunction printer shopping journey? Contact us today to make sure you don’t become “the next Joe.”
Managed IT Services: How to Think Like a Cybercriminal
March 10, 2022 1:19 am Leave a Comment
As a business professional, you may not spend a lot of time thinking about how to hack into others’ devices, invite yourself into secured networks, or take data that doesn’t belong to you. However, that’s exactly how cybercriminals spend their time–which is why they’re so good at causing trouble. Today, with a little help from managed IT services, we’ll take a walk in a cybercriminal’s shoes to find out how you can outsmart them.

As a business professional, you may not spend a lot of time thinking about how to hack into others’ devices, invite yourself into secured networks, or take data that doesn’t belong to you. However, that’s exactly how cybercriminals spend their time–which is why they’re so good at causing trouble. Today, with a little help from managed IT services, we’ll take a walk in a cybercriminal’s shoes to find out how you can outsmart them.

A Word From Managed IT Services

Before we get into the “criminal mindset,” let’s take a step back and understand why this approach works in the first place.

Think of managed IT services as an ex-detective. This detective had to go undercover plenty of times, learning all about cybercriminals, their strategies, and how they approach companies like yours. After stepping back from detective work, managed IT services switched to the security game, and now managed IT providers help you protect your data and devices from the very criminals they used to track.

Okay–maybe that’s not how managed IT services actually works. Still, this is a good way to understand why it’s helpful to look at things from a cyber criminal’s perspective–and how an IT support provider can help.

Protecting Your Company with Managed IT

Now that you know why you should take a walk in a cybercriminal’s shoes, let’s find out how to make it happen:

#1: Understand why you’re a target.

Small businesses are a target for the same reasons predators go after the smaller prey: They figure you’re an easy target because you don’t have as much experience or as many defenses as your bigger neighbors. Luckily, with managed IT, you can give those cybercriminals a nasty surprise by meeting their attacks with solid security.

#2: Look for weak points.

Digital bad guys hide in the shadows, looking for weak points in your defenses. Think from their perspective: If you were trying to gain access to your own company, where would you start? Would you target new employees who may not be up to speed on systems? Would you use the company name or address to start guessing passwords because you figure no one would think to use complex phrases instead? (Hint: Managed IT services can help you create good password habits!)

#3: Stay up-to-date.

Cybercriminals can’t afford to get behind on the latest tools of the trade. To think like one, you’ll need to pay attention to which “trends” are popular among these troublemakers (and try to anticipate which approaches they might try next).

In conclusion, it’s often best to approach your own security solutions from the perspective of a cybercriminal. Managed IT services can help you do just that, providing the insight, tools, and experience necessary to help you dodge danger in all its forms.

Looking for a little security help? Contact us today to get started with managed IT services!
Scanning Secrets: The Most Important Thing About Scanners
March 3, 2022 2:47 am Leave a Comment
There’s one important thing that can make or break your scanning experience. Do you know what it is? Read on to find out!

There’s one important thing that can make or break your scanning experience. Do you know what it is? Read on to find out!

Scanning the Right Way

Okay, okay–the truth is that scanning isn’t really a “make or break” situation. Even without this one big thing, you’re likely to get some benefits from scanning solutions.

That being said, this one thing does make a difference. In fact, without it, you’re likely to miss out on all kinds of value from your new processes.

So what is the most important thing about scanners? Simple: Find the right one for your business!

That’s right: If you don’t do a little homework ahead of time and choose the machine that will fit your needs, goals, and unique business challenges, you may not get to enjoy the full scanning experience. Luckily, choosing the right Canon scanner doesn’t have to be a chore–just ask these three big questions:

#1: “What do we need to scan?”

Your needs should drive your scanning choices, especially when it comes to the machine you’ll use. Consider what types of documents you want to scan, what size and shape they’re in, how often you’ll need to scan, and more.

#2: “What will we need to scan in the future?”

Don’t just look a few weeks or months into the future–try to imagine what your needs will look like in five or ten years. A good machine should keep you scanning efficiently and effectively even as your company grows and changes.

#3: “What does our setup look like?”

This question can have a lot of answers. Consider your current software and systems, as they’ll need to be compatible so you can get the most out of your scanner. It’s also important to think about how many people will be using the new scanner, what features they’d be comfortable utilizing, and where the scanner should be located to boost efficiency.

Conclusion

The most important thing about scanners is choosing the right one–and that doesn’t have to be a struggle. Just remember to prioritize your company’s scanning needs, both now and in the future, and find a machine that fits into your setup like a puzzle piece.

Need help finding the perfect make and model for your scanning solutions? Contact us today to get started!
Managed Print Services Saves Money, and Here’s Proof
February 25, 2022 2:29 am Leave a Comment
Ever wanted proof that managed print services does all the great things it says it can do? You’ve come to the right place! Today, we’ll let you watch with your very own eyes as managed print protects your budget. Let’s get started!

Ever wanted proof that managed print services does all the great things it says it can do? You’ve come to the right place! Today, we’ll let you watch with your very own eyes as managed print protects your budget. Let’s get started!

Managed Print Services in Action

Managed print services works in all kinds of ways. Some of its solutions are big and obvious–like, for example, cutting extra steps out of your workflows. Others, however, are subtle–like rearranging your fleet to optimize usage and print habits.

But if you’re trying to decide whether managed print is right for you, the chances are that you want to see proof right now. The good news is that the solution delivers, and it all comes down to simple tips.

That’s right: By using these managed print services tips in your print environment, you can see actual budget savings. Let’s take a look!
- Don’t stop printing in color.
This one seems a little counterintuitive, but it’s an important practice. That’s because, while not always necessary, color printing is sometimes an important part of the job–and giving up on it entirely (for example, by choosing a black-and-white printer) might mean you’ll end up at the print shop.
- Use digital signature tools.
When you can sign things digitally, you often don’t need to print them. When you don’t need to print, you don’t need to spend as much on ink, paper, and energy–and your budget will feel the difference.
- Find a maintenance partner.
Managed print services providers generally handle repairs and maintenance as well as fleet optimization, workflow improvements, and more. With a partner on your side, you’ll utilize proactive maintenance measures instead of reactive ones, allowing you to catch little issues before they get big enough to waste money.

Conclusion

If you thought these tips were stress-free, simple, and totally within reach, just wait–there’s plenty more where that came from. Managed print services has all kinds of tips, tricks, and printing secrets–all you have to do is take that first step.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn more about managed print!
You Need to Upgrade to a Multifunction Printer–Here’s Why
February 19, 2022 2:19 am Leave a Comment
When you buy an office printer, you’re probably hoping it will last forever. A high-quality machine might just get the job done for years to come–but that doesn’t mean you should keep relying on outdated technology. Here’s why it’s time to make the switch to something far more impressive: a multifunction printer.

When you buy an office printer, you’re probably hoping it will last forever. A high-quality machine might just get the job done for years to come–but that doesn’t mean you should keep relying on outdated technology. Here’s why it’s time to make the switch to something far more impressive: a multifunction printer.

Is a Multifunction Printer Really That Different?

The short answer is yes.

Multifunction printers are like the younger, faster siblings that will inevitably upstage their traditional counterparts. Desktop or single-function printers just can’t keep up with a machine that copies, scans, prints, and faxes–all while connecting to your network to make tasks even easier and more efficient.

It’s also important to note that no multifunction printer would be where it is today if it weren’t for older machines. All the latest technology is a result of research, experience, and lessons learned from other printers–so if you’re having trouble saying goodbye, throw in a “thank you” and move on to your printer’s modern successor.

3 Benefits of Multifunction Printer Ownership

So, why should you upgrade to a multifunction printer? Here are three big reasons:
- #1: Your needs are always changing.
Your printing needs probably don’t look the same as they did a few years ago–or maybe even a few months ago. A multifunction printer can help you keep up with those needs by providing more functions, advanced features, and unbeatable speed and quality.
- #2: Security is more important than ever.
Did you know that printers are often a hacker’s first target? Luckily, a multifunction printer can save the day. With advanced security features and built-in tools to ensure a safe network connection, these machines actively help protect your data and devices.
- #3: Green solutions are all the rage.
If you really want to be cutting edge, you’ll need to find ways to go green without wasting green–and that’s where multifunction printers come in. By using one machine with four functions instead of four machines with single functions, you save ink, paper, and energy–so Mother Earth and your budget will be grateful.

In conclusion, it’s time to upgrade to a multifunction printer because these machines represent years of evolution. Fast, powerful, and full of all the latest tech, a multifunction printer can help address your company’s needs in more ways than one.

Ready to upgrade? Contact us today to meet your new multifunction printer!
Managed IT Services: 3 Critical Elements for Law Firms
February 11, 2022 2:04 am Leave a Comment
Every company has its unique challenges, but law firms face especially large hurdles–especially when it comes to their tech. That’s why managed IT services offers three critical elements to help law firms get the job done. Let’s take a closer look!

Every company has its unique challenges, but law firms face especially large hurdles–especially when it comes to their tech. That’s why managed IT services offers three critical elements to help law firms get the job done. Let’s take a closer look!

Why Managed IT Services?

There’s a long list of business solutions available to law firms–so why choose managed IT services?

The simple answer is that, while every company wants its networks and devices to work properly, law firms have unique needs that can only be addressed with an efficient tech solution. That’s because so much modern legal communication happens in the digital world; law firms need tools to enable, protect, and share that communication without violating any of the regulations inherent to their industry.

That’s where managed IT services come in.

Managed IT Services for Law Firms

Managed IT services offer three elements that are absolutely critical to a law firm’s success. Those elements are:
- Simple yet powerful tech: The legal industry demands a high level of technological advancement. However, that advancement can come with even more hurdles–which is why managed IT services help law firms choose and implement tech that is impressive, powerful, efficient, yet simple and user-friendly.
- 24/7 IT support: When a client needs questions answered, or a case is down to the wire, law firms can’t afford to waste time on troubleshooting. Managed IT services offers 24/7 IT support to help keep networks, devices, and other tech running smoothly.
- Proactive solutions: Lawyers and other legal experts should be focused on their work, not their IT troubles. With managed IT services, they can rest easy knowing their provider has implemented proactive solutions that eliminate time- and money-wasting issues before they ever arise.
In conclusion, managed IT services can bring three important things to any law firm. These elements are critical because they work together to create a smooth, efficient tech environment–one that enables good work, high levels of security, and regulatory compliance.

Want to learn more about managed IT services and other solutions for law firms? Contact us today!
3 Reasons You Need Document Scanning
February 3, 2022 2:20 pm Leave a Comment
There aren’t many things your business truly needs. Good people, a clear mission, a healthy budget–beyond that, things start to become “nice to have” instead of “necessary.” However, document scanning is one big exception–and here are three reasons why.

There aren’t many things your business truly needs. Good people, a clear mission, a healthy budget–beyond that, things start to become “nice to have” instead of “necessary.” However, document scanning is one big exception–and here are three reasons why.

Document Scanning for Every Business

It’s bold to say that a certain solution is necessary for every business, but that’s the truth when it comes to document scanning. The best part is that, because scanning is a simple, tried-and-true solution, you don’t have to worry about software overhauls or pricey hardware upgrades to integrate this particular necessity.

So if it’s such a simple solution, what makes it so important? Here are three reasons you need document scanning:

#1: It makes your life easier.

When you scan your company’s documents, things just get better. Why? Well, scanned documents can be organized by title, date, content, author, and more, all at the click of a button. They can also be searched and shared in seconds–which means no more file cabinets. That’s enough to save time and money in your business, which makes life that much easier.

#2: It improves security.

Digital documents are easier to protect. They can be encrypted, password-locked, and made accessible to certain groups of people. They can also enable tools like digital signatures to help ensure validity and improve security overall.

#3: It’s the future.

You don’t have to stay up-to-date on all the latest tech to be relevant in today’s business landscape, but there are certainly a few things you don’t want to let pass you by. Document scanning is one of those things. That’s because digitized documents help bring your company into the tech sphere–and that’s a big deal in a world where everything from shopping to hanging out with friends is happening online.

Conclusion

These are three convincing reasons you need document scanning–but there are plenty more where that came from. Put simply, this solution is one you definitely don’t want to miss.

Ready to learn more about our Canon scanners? Contact us today to take that first step into your future!
Signs You Need Managed Print Services
January 27, 2022 1:41 am Leave a Comment
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to tell you it’s time to jump into managed print services, you’ve come to the right place: we’ve got four of them. Here’s how to know if managed print should be in your future!

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to tell you it’s time to jump into managed print services, you’ve come to the right place: we’ve got four of them. Here’s how to know if managed print should be in your future!

When Managed Print Services is Necessary

Not all business solutions are necessary–some are more like luxuries. That’s not the case with managed print services. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by paper or constantly worrying about your print budget, then you probably know what we’re talking about.

However, if you can’t tell whether managed print services is really necessary, look for these four red flags:

#1: You have no idea what’s going on with your budget.

Print budgets can quickly get out of hand. From ink and paper to repairs and maintenance, the cost of these machines can really add up–not to mention the original purchase price.

If you look at your budget and wonder where all that money is going, it’s time to consider managed print services. With managed print, you’ll enjoy full transparency into your budget–and you’ll get personalized tips and solutions to keep more of that money in the bank.

#2: Your recycling bin is full of unwanted prints.

Hey, at least you’re recycling, right?

The truth is that if you have to get rid of all those documents, you probably didn’t need them in the first place. Managed print services can help you identify when to hit “print” and when a digital data-sharing tool might be the better choice (and eliminate other wasteful habits along the way).

#3: You never know when you need supplies.

If you’re always running out of consumables or ordering too many, you know it’s time for managed print.

That’s because managed print services can help you better understand your print needs–including how much ink, paper, and toner you use. It also allows you to automate supply ordering to make your life that much easier.

#4: You’d like to hit every office printer with your car.

Sick of battling your printers? That’s a red flag all on its own.

Managed print services brings harmony to otherwise-frustrated print environments. It helps you make peace with your printers, giving you the tools and solutions necessary to address issues proactively, minimize downtime, and troubleshoot without wanting to tear your hair out.

Conclusion

It’s easy to tell when managed print services is necessary–just take a look at your day-to-day operations and decide if you’ve got print rage. If any of the points above hit a little too close to home, you’ve got your answer.

Contact us today to learn more about managed print services and start making peace with your printers!
Multifunction Printer Tips: How Many Printers Do You Need?
January 20, 2022 1:38 am Leave a Comment
We’ve all been there: You see a multifunction printer, looking impressive and powerful, and you can’t help but imagine how well it would fit into your fleet. Of course, you wouldn’t want it to be lonely, so you consider bringing a few more along for the ride. Soon, your entire company could be overrun by multifunction printers–but can you really have too much of a good thing? Let’s find out.

We’ve all been there: You see a multifunction printer, looking impressive and powerful, and you can’t help but imagine how well it would fit into your fleet. Of course, you wouldn’t want it to be lonely, so you consider bringing a few more along for the ride. Soon, your entire company could be overrun by multifunction printers–but can you really have too much of a good thing? Let’s find out.

Multifunction Printer Math

Don’t worry, math-haters–you won’t need to pull out a calculator for this one. Instead, multifunction printer math relies more on your needs and goals–not to mention the layout of your business.

Here are a few things to consider when deciding how many multifunction printers you really need:
- How many users do we have?
If you only have a handful of users in your company, then you probably don’t need a million printers. However, if your teams are overflowing and every single person wants to take a crack at using that shiny new multifunction printer, you may need a more sizable fleet.
- How often do we print?
It’s also important to consider what your print needs actually look like. Are you printing all day, every day? Do you only have a few print jobs, but each one takes hours? If that’s the case, you might want to err on the side of caution and add more multifunction printers to your fleet.

If, on the other hand, you print rarely–but enough to make trips to the print shop a frustration–then you might be better off with a single machine.
- What does our space look like?
A huge office space almost requires multiple printers, simply because the alternative would be forcing some people to walk across the entire building just to grab a single document. However, a small space means that big fleets could be unrealistic–so don’t forget to think about layout and available space when choosing multifunction printers.

Conclusion

There’s no perfect number of multifunction printers. Instead, it’s up to you to decide what your needs and goals are, as well as what your layout requires. Just remember one thing: A multifunction printer should always make your life easier, not more difficult.

Ready to shop for a multifunction printer or two (or ten)? Contact us today to get started!
Are You Hesitating on Managed IT Services?
January 13, 2022 2:36 am Leave a Comment
Making the switch to managed IT services can be a big decision. However, if you know exactly why you’re hesitating, it’s a lot easier to address your concerns and take that first step. We’re here to help you do just that–so sit back, relax, and get ready to learn why managed IT services might just be your new best friend!

Making the switch to managed IT services can be a big decision. However, if you know exactly why you’re hesitating, it’s a lot easier to address your concerns and take that first step. We’re here to help you do just that–so sit back, relax, and get ready to learn why managed IT services might just be your new best friend!

Hesitating on Managed IT Services

The first step in addressing a problem is understanding why it’s a problem in the first place. This is especially true when it comes to any hesitation you may have about managed IT services.

Here are a few common uncertainties surrounding this solution:
- “Outsourcing causes trouble.”
You may not want to outsource because you think you’re able to handle your own IT or that only you have the in-depth knowledge needed to serve your unique needs. While managed IT services providers know a lot about tech, they also know you’re the expert on your own company–which is why this solution is always a collaborative effort. That’s right: Even though it’s technically outsourcing, managed IT services puts you in the driver’s seat.
- “It’s too expensive.”
Let’s face it: Tech can be pricey. The good news is that managed IT services is about saving money, helping you find better, smarter ways to do things–which means it can strengthen your budgets, help eliminate bad habits, and pay for itself in the long run.
- “It won’t make a difference.”
Maybe you think your company is too small for managed IT services, or that IT management isn’t that important anyway. The truth, though, is that businesses of all shapes and sizes can benefit from this solution–and that’s simply because IT is at the heart of just about everything you do (and we all know how important it is to take care of your heart!).

Conclusion

There are plenty of reasons to hesitate on any big change–but when it comes to managed IT services, that hesitation can cause you to miss out on all kinds of benefits. In truth, this solution has an answer for every uncertainty or question you may have, so there’s no reason not to give it a try.

Still on the fence? Contact us today for help deciding if managed IT services is right for you!
Is Scanning the Same as Digitizing?
January 7, 2022 1:29 am Leave a Comment
If you’re interested in turning all your physical files into neat, well-organized digital documents, congratulations–you’re on a path that’s sure to deliver all kinds of benefits. However, as you do your research, you’re likely to come across two terms: scanning and digitizing. The truth is that, while often used interchangeably, these terms mean separate things–and knowing the difference is key.

If you’re interested in turning all your physical files into neat, well-organized digital documents, congratulations–you’re on a path that’s sure to deliver all kinds of benefits. However, as you do your research, you’re likely to come across two terms: scanning and digitizing. The truth is that, while often used interchangeably, these terms mean separate things–and knowing the difference is key.

Scanning

Scanning has been around for a while now. It’s not exactly old news, but neither is it the biggest, most exciting advancement in the world of office documents.

Maybe that’s because, as a solution, scanning is a little simplistic. It requires the use of a scanner or multifunction device to get the job done, and from there, it’s just what the name suggests: You put a document or photograph on the machine, and it essentially takes a picture, saving this image to your device.

Unfortunately, just like any other image, scanned files are a little disappointing. They can’t be edited, searched, or manipulated, and they’re far less functional than many companies need. However, if it’s static images you’re looking for, scanning nonetheless represents an important step forward from physical files.

Digitizing

Digitizing is where the real magic happens. It still requires the use of a scanner or multifunction device, but this time, there’s a bit of extra work behind the scenes.

The machine uses more advanced technology–often, OCR or optical character recognition–to read the text or handwriting on the document. Then, by comparing the figures to a database of shapes, the machine translates the content on the physical file into a digital format–and voila, you have a digitized document that can be edited, searched, and shared to your heart’s content.

The benefits of digitizing are almost countless and can include:
- Increased efficiency: When documents are digitized, they’re much easier to access and update as necessary, minimizing wasted time.
- Better communication: Need a file ASAP? Digitized documents can be shared from just about anywhere, making them the modern worker’s best friend.
- Reliable security: Physical files are tricky to protect. Once digitized, they can live comfortably behind firewalls, passwords, and other security solutions.
In conclusion, while scanning and digitizing are both useful solutions, digitizing is often the best path for business needs. However, both require the help of a scanner–so your first step is clear.

Contact us today to kick off your digitizing (or scanning) journey!
4 Tips for Choosing a Managed Print Services Provider
December 22, 2021 4:47 am Leave a Comment
Wondering how to choose the perfect managed print services provider? You’ve come to the right place! Here are four tips to help you find the right company for your needs–both now and in the future.

Wondering how to choose the perfect managed print services provider? You’ve come to the right place! Here are four tips to help you find the right company for your needs–both now and in the future.

Managed Print Services Experts

All providers claim to be managed print services experts–but only a few of them actually live up to that name.

Unfortunately, honest experts are sometimes difficult to identify. That’s because the fakers have good cover stories and know just how to trick businesses into thinking they’re cutting-edge. Sure, most managed print services providers have decent intentions–but that doesn’t mean they’re capable of protecting, supporting, and empowering your print environment.

So how do you weed out the impostors?

Simple: Use these four tips.

#1: Start with security.

Print security is a pretty big deal. If a provider doesn’t offer a lot of service or solutions in this regard, don’t waste any more time–they’re not a good fit.

#2: Do some digging.

Does the provider have a good online presence? Is their website clear and easy to use? Can you find reviews about their service? Once you answer these questions, keep that information in your back pocket when approaching providers. It should help you make sure they are who they say they are.

#3: Talk about communication.

A provider can be perfect in every way–but if they don’t match up with your preferred communication style, they still won’t be the right fit. Take some time to find out how each provider stays in touch with their clients.

#4: Find out if they’re interested.

Managed print services is a partnership. If a provider isn’t interested in you–your print environment, needs, challenges, goals, budget, and more–then they probably won’t be capable of providing the personalized service you deserve.

Conclusion

To find true managed print services experts, you need to become somewhat of a detective. Look for references, explore their website, and don’t be afraid to ask all of your questions. Remember–this is supposed to be a partnership, not just a business deal.

If you need help finding that perfect provider, worry no more. Contact us today for all your managed print services needs!
Can Multifunction Printers Help Engage Students?
December 17, 2021 1:49 pm Leave a Comment
We’ve all been there: Whether as a teacher or a student, we’re all familiar with the feeling of an uninspired lecture and a forgettable class. Luckily, educators have a new tool in the mission to keep students engaged–and it might just surprise you.

The Power of Multifunction Printers

You might be wondering how a simple printer could help teachers turn lectures into learning adventures. First, though, let’s get one thing straight: Multifunction printers aren’t your average desktop model. They’re faster, more powerful, and far more impressive, combining fax, scan, copy, and print capabilities in one machine. They’re also packed full of features that can help students really engage with the content they’re studying.

Here are just a few examples:
- Constant updates
Today’s students don’t like working with outdated software. Luckily, multifunction printers are always being updated by their manufacturers, which means students will always find some new tool or feature to delight them.
- User-friendliness
Teachers and students alike hate wasting time at the printer–but that’s a thing of the past with a multifunction device. Not only do these printers combine multiple functionalities in one place; they also have user-friendly interfaces, touchscreens, and other solutions to make them quick and easy to navigate.
- Smart technology
Multifunction printers allow students to think outside the box by putting all kinds of options at their fingertips. For example, some machines include optical character recognition technology, which reads scanned material and translates it into documents that can be searched and edited.
- Color printing
Printing is usually more fun when it involves some color. Many multifunction printer makes and models cut the costs of color printing–which means schools can let students have a bit more artistic license.

Conclusion

A multifunction printer might just be every student’s–and every teacher’s–new best friend. These machines make printing a vital part of the learning process fast, powerful, and versatile.

Want to see what a multifunction printer could do for your educational institution? Contact us today!
Managed IT Services: A Common Sense Solution?
December 9, 2021 1:05 am Leave a Comment
If you’ve spent any time looking at business solutions, then you know they’re not always based on common sense. In fact, some of them are either so simplistic or so overly complicated that they completely undermine the benefits they were supposed to provide! However, managed IT services is one solution that doesn’t follow the trend–and here’s why.

If you’ve spent any time looking at business solutions, then you know they’re not always based on common sense. In fact, some of them are either so simplistic or so overly complicated that they completely undermine the benefits they were supposed to provide! However, managed IT services is one solution that doesn’t follow the trend–and here’s why.

What Makes Managed IT Services Tick

As you search for solutions that will fit your business, your budget, and your overall goals, you’re probably not sure what exactly you’re looking for. It’s one of those “you’ll know it when you see it” situations–but in truth, you’re probably hoping to break each option down to its bare essentials and find the heart.

When it comes to managed IT services, that heart is you.

Managed IT services is based on your needs. It may use many of the same tools from business to business, but the ways in which it uses those tools will change entirely depending on the outcomes and benefits you’re hoping to see. That’s why managed IT services feels like common sense: It’s built to complement your unique way of doing things.

Personalized Benefits of Managed IT Services

The best part about a personalized solution is that its benefits are personalized, too. Here are a few advantages you may start to see from your custom-made IT approach:
- Happier staff
Whether you have a dedicated IT team or not, one thing’s for sure: Someone has to fix the tech when it’s acting up. With managed IT services, that “someone” is your provider. When your teams don’t have to worry about troubleshooting, they can focus on doing what they’re really good at.
- A healthier budget
IT is expensive. Luckily, with managed IT services, you can gain visibility into those costs and find simple, stress-free ways to control them–all without cutting corners.
- Stronger solutions
As you become more comfortable wielding your tech, you’ll find savvier ways to use it. Soon, technology will be a secret weapon against inefficiencies, communication issues, security concerns, and more–all thanks to managed IT.

In conclusion, managed IT services feels like common sense because it’s built around your needs and workflows. It can create all kinds of benefits, from cost savings to happier staff, and it’s all because you’re at the heart of the whole solution.

To see managed IT services in action, contact us today!
Can Scanning Be Stress-Free?
December 4, 2021 2:16 am Leave a Comment
Scanning itself doesn’t often strike fear into a company’s heart–but managing all those physical files certainly can. Luckily, there’s one little secret that can make scanning stress-free, and it may not be what you expect.

Scanning itself doesn’t often strike fear into a company’s heart–but managing all those physical files certainly can. Luckily, there’s one little secret that can make scanning stress-free, and it may not be what you expect.

Making Scanning Work For You

Here’s the secret to scanning: It’s all about choosing the perfect scanner for your needs.

Although scanning is a solid solution, it can become unnecessarily complex if your machine doesn’t offer the right combination of functions and features. With the wrong device in your fleet, all those physical files could quickly become overwhelming–and suddenly, scanning feels like a chore instead of a solution.

To make scanning stress-free, choose a machine (or machines!) by asking yourself these questions:
- “Does everyone scan?”
If you have a few designated scan experts on your team, you can probably make do with a small number of highly efficient devices. However, if everyone loves scanning, you might need to consider more compact models that can fit in each person’s workspace.
- “How often do we scan?”
Do you scan all day and all night? (Okay, you probably don’t scan that much.) If your machine is likely to be in constant use, it’s important to choose a model that can hold up to all kinds of wear and tear.
- “What do we scan?”
If you’ve got simple scanning needs–as in, your documents are all one-sided, and you’ve never met a paper bigger than 8.5×11″–you may not need all the bells and whistles. However, if you scan oversized, full-color, two-sided, bound, or otherwise-nontraditional files, you might need a machine that can handle a little more work.
- “Where will our scanned data live?”
Scanners need to play nice with your other hardware and software. When shopping, look for something that connects to your network and can scan directly to email, cloud storage, or other everyday parts of your workflow.

Conclusion

Scanning can be stress-free–but only if you follow a few best practices, like choosing the best device for your needs. Luckily, by asking yourself a few questions like these, you can set your sights on a scanner that could make a big difference in your workflows.

Ready to see what stress-free scanning can do for you? Need help choosing the perfect machine? Contact us today!
What’s the Point of Managed Print Services?
November 25, 2021 3:49 pm Leave a Comment
When it comes to business solutions, there are a lot of questions you can ask. However, perhaps the most important is also the simplest: “What’s the point?”. Today, we’ll ask that very question about one big business solution–managed print services–and find out why the answer is so important.

When it comes to business solutions, there are a lot of questions you can ask. However, perhaps the most important is also the simplest: “What’s the point?”. Today, we’ll ask that very question about one big business solution–managed print services–and find out why the answer is so important.

The Point of Managed Print Services

When you hear the term “managed print services”, you may think it refers to some sort of outsourcing situation where a faceless third-party company rules your print environment.

That couldn’t be further from the truth.

In fact, the real “point” of managed print services is to make your print environment better, stronger, and more efficient in whatever way works best for you. While some tasks and concerns may be outsourced–namely, the ones you don’t want to deal with–the rest stays firmly within your control.

Here are a few examples of managed print’s main point in action:
- Company A uses managed print sparingly. They want to maintain control over every little detail in their print environment, so their provider only gives advice and recommendations when necessary. Otherwise, they help Company A by implementing the chosen tools and solutions.
- Company B is comfortably in the middle. Their provider manages the little day-to-day stuff like automating supply orders, and they deal with the bigger issues, like which machines to buy. It’s their perfect combination of responsibility and freedom.
- Company C relies on its provider for just about everything. While they like having a say in things that impact their unique workflows and company culture, they’re happy to trust their managed print services provider with solutions, recommendations, implementation, security, and more.
In these examples, one thing is clear: The point of managed print services is not to take over your print environment but to support it in whatever way you feel is best.

Conclusion

Although managed print solutions comes with a long list of benefits, the real point is to help you use your print environment to your advantage. The solutions and approaches involved are totally up to you–and that’s what makes managed print so powerful.

Want to learn more about managed print services? Contact us today for all the help you need!
Your Multifunction Printer Buying Guide
November 19, 2021 2:36 am Leave a Comment
Choosing the right multifunction printer for your business may, at first glance, seem easy–but as soon as you see all those makes, models, and available features, you may start feeling overwhelmed. Here’s everything you need to know to simplify the process and end up with that perfect printer!

Choosing the right multifunction printer for your business may, at first glance, seem easy–but as soon as you see all those makes, models, and available features, you may start feeling overwhelmed. Here’s everything you need to know to simplify the process and end up with that perfect printer!

Finding the Perfect Multifunction Printer

If your company is considering a multifunction printer, you’re on the threshold of greatness. All kinds of efficiency improvements, cost savings, security boosts, and more are waiting for you–but before you can enjoy any of that, you need to actually choose the printer.

Here are some things to consider before you sign on the dotted line:
- Brand
Different multifunction printer brands have different options. To get the most out of your investment, it’s often best to go with a brand boasting an impressive pedigree and plenty of experience crafting secure, efficient, powerful machines, including:
- Sharp
- Konica Minolta
- Lexmark
- Speed
Do you often need those print jobs finished yesterday? If so, you’ll want to invest in a multifunction printer that can keep up with your rapid pace. That’s especially true if your high-speed print jobs are also high-volume.
- Features
Multifunction printers scan, copy, fax, and print, but they can also do a whole lot more. Consider things like finishing options, printing in color, utilizing your existing productivity or management software, and other features you may find valuable.
- The future
Okay, okay–it’s rather difficult to consider the future, right? Luckily, you don’t need to have a crystal ball to be sure you’re thinking a few steps ahead. For example, f you’re working from home right now and plan to keep things remote, you’ll definitely want to consider machines with network connectivity and advanced security options.

Conclusion

There’s a lot to consider when choosing a new multifunction printer for your business. Brand, speed, features, and future needs all have a role to play in your overall decision–but as long as you choose a device that can keep up with you, you’re likely to see significant benefits.

Need help choosing that perfect multifunction printer? Contact us today!
What Challenges Come with Managed IT Services?
November 9, 2021 1:59 am Leave a Comment
Nothing is perfect–not even managed IT services. So what challenges come with this tech solution, and how can you overcome them? Let’s find out!

Nothing is perfect–not even managed IT services. So what challenges come with this tech solution, and how can you overcome them? Let’s find out!

What to Expect From Managed IT Services

By now, you probably know all the great things managed IT services can do for you. But challenges and benefits aren’t mutually exclusive–so what hurdles should you expect from managed IT services, and what can you do to make it to the other side?

Here’s a closer look:

Challenge 1: Adapting to remote and hybrid environments

Managed IT services made more sense when everyone was in the same place, right?

Not necessarily.

Although adapting to remote and hybrid environments must be acknowledged as a challenge, even for your IT support provider, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to handle. In fact, remote and hybrid work gives you a chance to look at your tech in fresh ways, learn a few new tricks, and take your security to the next level. Look at this as an opportunity instead of a challenge.

Challenge 2: Keeping up with customers

Customer expectations are always growing and changing. That keeps you on your toes–but it also demands that you undermine one of the main tenets of managed IT services, which is consistency.

In this case, you’ll need to embrace an interesting paradox: consistent flexibility. If you build flexibility into your tech workflows and give yourself room to adapt to client expectations, you won’t stress out every time your IT game needs to pivot.

Challenge 3: Managing costs

The truth about technology is that it’s just plain expensive. Although managed IT services is all about helping you save money; you often need to spend money, too. So how do you balance that?

The key is visibility. When you know where your money is going and why it’s easier to make sure your spending is reasonable and efficient. That way, you don’t have to panic when you buy upgraded machines or fancy new software; you’ll know the cost is justified and efficient.

Conclusion

Although managed IT services, like everything, comes with its challenges, the solution is self-aware–meaning it has built-in tools and approaches to help counteract these challenges. Once you know what you’re up against, you’ll be able to use stress-free managed IT tactics to overcome problems big and small.

Ready to see what managed IT services can do for you? Contact us today!
Scanning News: New Canon Scanner for Small Businesses!
November 4, 2021 1:03 am Leave a Comment
Has your small business been looking for a scanner? Have you found that many makes and models simply don’t fulfill the unique needs of a smaller company? Worry no more– Canon has a new machine that will finally put scanning within reach.

Has your small business been looking for a scanner? Have you found that many makes and models simply don’t fulfill the unique needs of a smaller company? Worry no more–Canon has a new machine that will finally put scanning within reach.

Canon Scanning

Canon scanners are already fast, efficient, effective, and flexible–but now the manufacturer has taken things to the next level. Canon recently introduced the imageFORMULA DR-C225 II Small Business Edition Powered by Receipt Bank. It’s not just a scanner–it’s a package that includes Receipt Bank software designed to help simplify and streamline your workflows.

This new machine makes scanning more accessible than ever. Fast, budget-friendly, and full of features added with small businesses in mind–like a space-saving design, automation options, and more–this scanner will change the way you see your company’s documents.

Benefits of Scanning

When you add the imageFORMULA DR-C225 II Small Business Edition Powered by Receipt Bank to your fleet, your small business will start seeing benefits right away. Here are just a few things you can expect:

Cost savings

When you scan documents, you can save, share, store, and update them digitally. That means you won’t have to pay to use the printer quite as often–and you can start phasing out those file cabinets and physical storage costs, too.

Better organization

Scanning gives you a “second chance” when it comes to file organization. As you scan each document, you’ll be able to stick to an organizational framework complete with naming conventions, password protection for certain files, and more.

Environmental friendliness

This model meets ENERGY STAR guidelines and complies with multiple other environmentally friendly guidelines. It also helps your workflows treat Mother Nature a little better by reducing your reliance on paper and ink.

In conclusion, this Canon scanner is designed just right for small businesses. It comes with built-in efficiency software and a long list of benefits, making it the perfect fit for your fleet.

Want to learn more about Canon scanners? Interested in scanning solutions? Contact us today!
Is Managed Print Services a Smart Decision?
October 28, 2021 12:28 am Leave a Comment
When it comes to your business, you’re extra careful to make sure that every decision is the right one. However, that kind of vigilance takes a lot of work–and, after all, no one is perfect. If you’re hesitating on managed print services because you’re not sure it’s right for your business, sit back and relax–we’ve got everything you need to know to make sure this is a smart decision.

When it comes to your business, you’re extra careful to make sure that every decision is the right one. However, that kind of vigilance takes a lot of work–and, after all, no one is perfect. If you’re hesitating on managed print services because you’re not sure it’s right for your business, sit back and relax–we’ve got everything you need to know to make sure this is a smart decision.

Managed Print Services Basics

The key to making any decision, both in business and in life, is to be sure you fully understand it. That’s why it’s important to take a step back and review managed print services before jumping in.

Managed print is an outsourcing solution–but only at first glance. The more you look, the more you see: Managed print services is also a way to better organize your workflows, improve print security, cut out unnecessary steps, and even strengthen customer service. It’s a partnership between you and a managed print provider who will act as your guide through the new solutions, strategies, and tools you’ll be utilizing.

The best part of managed print is that you never have to give up control. You get the final say on any changes that happen in your business–so it may be helpful to think of managed print as a web of decisions that can be made or unmade at your discretion.

Why Managed Print?

So, is managed print services a smart choice? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- It’s efficient.
Saving time has never been this easy. Managed print helps you cut out unnecessary steps that you might not have noticed otherwise–plus; it introduces new tools and strategies to turn your most dreaded tasks into the easiest part of your day.
- It’s flexible.
Not loving a new solution? With managed print services, it’s easy to change your mind. Your provider will help you choose a replacement for anything you’re not crazy about, which means your print environment can be as flexible as you want.
- It’s good for your budget.
Managed print helps save money by cutting wasteful habits, optimizing your fleet, revealing print costs you may not have noticed, and more. It’s great news for your budget–and for your peace of mind.

In conclusion, managed print services is a smart decision because it comes with so many business benefits. It’s flexible, efficient, and budget-friendly, and it doesn’t lock you into any one choice–which means you get to take a break from worrying about making the perfect decision.

Ready to let managed print services simplify your work life? Contact us today to get started!
3 Tips for Choosing a Multifunction Printer
October 21, 2021 12:08 am Leave a Comment
Choosing a multifunction printer is a big responsibility. After all, you want to make a smart investment–but you also want a machine that will continue to be fast, effective, reliable, and powerful for years to come. How do you find that perfect fit? Here are a few tips to get you started!

Choosing a multifunction printer is a big responsibility. After all, you want to make a smart investment–but you also want a machine that will continue to be fast, effective, reliable, and powerful for years to come. How do you find that perfect fit? Here are a few tips to get you started!

Multifunction Printer Matchmaking

To find your perfect match in the multifunction printer world, you’ll need to do a little background research. This is where you learn more about printer terminology, the latest functions, and manufacturer reputation. Once you’ve got that information, you can act as a “matchmaker” for your company.

Here are three tips to help you find that perfect machine:

#1: Be savvy about budget.

Multifunction printers cost more than what’s listed on the price tag. You also need to consider energy, consumables, repairs, maintenance, and more.

However, that’s not the only budget consideration to keep in mind. You should also do the math to find out how much a multifunction printer will save you over its lifetime–for example, by keeping you out of the print shop. These calculations will help you understand exactly what impact this new machine will have on your bottom line.

#2: Think outside the box.

You’re probably familiar with your company’s current needs–but what about the future? Multifunction printers can adapt to changing work environments with ease, so it’s smart to find a make and model that will help your company grow.

#3: Consider what’s most important.

Which printer features are an absolute must? Speed? Capacity? Connectivity? Multifunction printers combine scan, fax, print, and copy capabilities, but they can do a whole lot more–so be sure to consider which features are vital for your company’s success and which are more like a luxury.

Conclusion

No matter what your “perfect match” looks like, there’s a multifunction printer to fit the bill. All you need to do is brush up on background information, consider your priorities, and remember to think outside the box–especially when it comes to budget.

Looking for a multifunction printer? Contact us today–we love playing matchmaker!
The 4 Biggest Benefits of Managed IT Services
October 14, 2021 12:11 am Leave a Comment
Although managed IT services come with a long list of benefits, you probably don’t have time to brush up on every single one. Instead, here are the four biggest benefits of managed IT–and why they alone are enough to make this solution worthwhile.

Although managed IT services comes with a long list of benefits, you probably don’t have time to brush up on every single one. Instead, here are the four biggest benefits of managed IT–and why they alone are enough to make this solution worthwhile.

Managed IT Services, Simplified

The truth about managed IT services is that, like the devices and software it manages, it can get a little complicated.

Luckily, managed IT is all about simplifying things–even itself. In the spirit of stress-free solutions, here’s a look at managed IT services that breaks the solution down to its four biggest and most important benefits.

#1: Flexibility

Your tech solutions should grow and change with you–and managed IT services is no exception. No matter how many (or how few) devices you have in your workforce, no matter what software solutions you employ, managed IT will always be able to scale to fit your needs.

#2: Focus

Managed IT services helps you put the focus where it matters. When you’re running around putting out tech fires–like connectivity issues or printer troubleshooting–you’re wasting valuable time. However, having the right IT support helps you focus on the big stuff–like serving customers and supporting employees–while your provider deals with those other frustrations, tasks, and responsibilities.

#3: Cost efficiency

Need to save a few bucks? Managed IT is your new best friend. By analyzing your tech habits and helping you eliminate wasteful practices, managed IT services protects your budget without impacting your productivity.

#4: Control

Perhaps the best part of managed IT services is that control remains firmly with you. Although you’re outsourcing, you get the final say on solutions, changes, and tools–so basically, you get to keep doing the fun stuff (like choosing new tech) while shrugging off the rest (like updating software or checking for security breaches).

Conclusion

Managed IT services isn’t a solution with only four benefits–but if it was, these four benefits would be enough to improve every corner of your company. You’ll see scalable solutions, increased focus, a healthier budget, and more–all while maintaining control over the things that matter most.

Want to learn more about managed IT services? Contact us today to see what this solution can do for you!
Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Scanning
October 5, 2021 12:19 am Leave a Comment
If you’ve got scanning questions, we’ve got answers! Here’s everything you ever wanted to know about scanning (and why it’s great news for your business and your budget).

If you’ve got scanning questions, we’ve got answers! Here’s everything you ever wanted to know about scanning (and why it’s great news for your business and your budget).

Scanning FAQs

Although document scanning is a simple solution compared to other tools out there, it does come with some big questions. Here are a few FAQs, answered!

How do you calculate the cost of scanning?

Scanning is a budget-friendly solution, but it doesn’t come with a flat fee. Here are some things to consider when calculating the cost of scanning:
- how many documents you scan,
- how long the process takes,
- whether your employees need scanning training,
- and more.
Every scanning job comes with a different cost–but the good news is that scanning files is much cheaper than trying to store and organize physical documents.

Is scanning secure?

The truth is that scanning is only as secure as your organization is. If you’ve got good security solutions in place–like a document management system, multi-factor authentication for document access, and more–then you’re in the clear!

Can scanned files be edited?

A scanned file’s properties depend on the type of scanner you use. For example, simple scanners only create an image of your document–just like taking a picture–which means you can’t edit your content. Smarter scanners, on the other hand, come with optical character recognition (OCR) that reads typed or handwritten content, translates it into a language computers can understand, and gives you the power to search and edit it.

How do you choose the best scanner?

Choosing the best Canon scanner is a very personal business. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- how often you need to scan,
- how much paper you need to scan,
- how quickly you need to scan,
- what you want to do with your files once they’re digitized,
- what your budget is,
- which existing systems and devices you want to use with your scanner,
- and more.
Conclusion

Scanning may be stress-free and straightforward, but it still poses a few important questions. The important thing to remember is that scanning is budget-friendly, capable of being adapted to your company’s needs, and easy to learn. You’ll be a scanning pro in no time.

Want to learn more about scanning? Contact us today to get started!
Your Managed Print Services Questions, Answered
October 1, 2021 12:38 am Leave a Comment
Ever had a managed print services question you were too afraid to ask? Searched every online review and discussion board but still can’t find the answer? Not to worry–today, we’re here to answer managed print questions of all shapes and sizes!

Ever had a managed print services question you were too afraid to ask? Searched every online review and discussion board but still can’t find the answer? Not to worry–today, we’re here to answer managed print questions of all shapes and sizes!

Managed Print FAQs

Whether your company is brand-new to managed print services or you’re just looking for a refresher, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you ever wanted to know about managed print services!

What is it?

Managed print services is an outsourcing solution. Basically, you get to pick up your print problems and hand them off to someone else–all while keeping control over the most important stuff.

Who makes it happen?

When you implement managed print, you choose a provider to work with. This company acts as your print partner, helping you choose solutions, simplify workflows, automate certain parts of your print jobs, and more.

How does it benefit my business?

Managed print comes with a long list of benefits, including:
- improved security,
- boosted efficiency,
- reduced downtime,
- simplified processes,
- 24/7 troubleshooting,
- healthier budgets,
- and more.
Is it affordable?

Perhaps the best part of managed print services is the price. Rather than paying for every element of your print environment, you’re only charged for what you actually need–which means you have one flat fee and nothing else to worry about.

Conclusion

Although managed print services is a simple solution, it has a lot of moving parts. Understanding the basics–like what to expect from a print provider or what benefits you should see in the first few weeks–can help your managed print experience be truly amazing. Plus, with scalable costs that adapt to your needs, you can rest assured that this is one solution your budget will thank you for.

Have more questions about managed print services? Want to see that long list of benefits for yourself? Contact us today!
How Many Multifunction Printers Do You Need?
September 25, 2021 9:10 pm Leave a Comment
To create the multifunction printer fleet of your dreams, you’ll need to do a little homework. For example, what makes and models are best? What speed do you need? And–perhaps most importantly–how many printers do you need? Let’s find out!

To create the multifunction printer fleet of your dreams, you’ll need to do a little homework. For example, what makes and models are best? What speed do you need? And–perhaps most importantly–how many printers do you need? Let’s find out!

Building Your Multifunction Printer Fleet

Multifunction printers are powerful, efficient, hardworking devices that fit perfectly into any workflow and every industry. They copy, print, fax, and scan, and they do it all with built-in security features to protect data while you work with it.

But more isn’t always merrier. Every business has an ideal number of multifunction printers; too few, and you’ll be scrambling to get work done–but too many, and your fleet, security, supplies, workflows, and budgets could quickly get out of hand.

Here’s how to find that perfect number.
- #1: Consider your needs.
Do you need to print high volumes at high speeds? Multifunction printers can do that–but if you need to have several jobs going at once, it makes sense to have multiple machines. Take this into consideration when planning your fleet.
- #2: Consider your layout.
Smaller offices may need fewer machines, as everyone would have easy access to the same one or two printers. However, large, multi-level office buildings may benefit from several devices–one for each team or area.
- #3: Consider your budget.
Although multifunction printers are an efficient investment, there’s a point beyond which they become expensive to manage and maintain–and that point is when you’re practically overrun with printers. Make sure to consider your budget when finding the perfect number of multifunction printers–not just purchase price, but supplies, repairs, and maintenance, too.

Conclusion

There’s no single number of multifunction printers that will work for everyone. Finding your own number is up to you–but when you know what to consider, it’s a little easier to make this decision. Just remember to keep your company’s needs front and center!

Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Need help building your perfect fleet? Contact us today!
5 Reasons Managed IT is Every Company’s Friend
September 17, 2021 1:41 am Leave a Comment
It’s not every day that you find a business solution truly capable of being your company’s friend. That’s because not all business solutions are designed around you–but managed IT services is different. Here are five reasons managed IT is the best friendship your company could ask for!

It’s not every day that you find a business solution truly capable of being your company’s friend. That’s because not all business solutions are designed around you–but managed IT services is different. Here are five reasons managed IT is the best friendship your company could ask for!

Count On Managed IT

If you had to sum up managed IT services in one word, that word would be reliable. This solution is fast, effective, and available 24/7–all because it’s designed from the ground up with your needs in mind.

Here are five reasons your company can count on managed IT services (like any good friendship).

#1: It’s secure.

Protecting networks, computers, mobile devices, and data is a necessity in the modern world–and managed IT can make it happen. By analyzing your tech environment and identifying vulnerabilities, your provider can help protect what matters.

#2: It’s cost-effective.

Not only does managed IT come with one predictable cost–it also helps you save money by consolidating fleets and simplifying your tech workflows.

#3: It’s flexible.

Need to go remote? Want to expand to a different location? Want to take your data on the go? Managed IT can help you achieve any of these things–or all of them at once.

#4: It’s creative.

Technology is as much about art as it is about science. Managed IT helps you take that creative approach in your infrastructure, allowing you to choose tech solutions that keep your company on the cutting edge of innovation.

#5: It’s always there when you need it.

With 24/7 support, managed IT is wherever you need it, whenever you need it.

Conclusion

Managed IT services is built to meet your company’s unique needs and help you overcome challenges even if no one else has ever faced them. It’s the best friend your company could ask for, and it can do wonders for your security, efficiency, and organization.

Ready to meet your new best friend? Contact us today to see what managed IT services can do for you!
Which Industries Need Scanning?
September 9, 2021 2:41 pm Leave a Comment
Scanning is a “one size fits all” solution–not because it is cookie-cutter or otherwise limiting, but because its simplicity allows it to adapt to any industry, any need, and, of course, any company. While scanning fits in everywhere, its benefits are especially accentuated in a few industries–so let’s take a look to see scanning in action!

Scanning is a “one size fits all” solution–not because it is cookie-cutter or otherwise limiting, but because its simplicity allows it to adapt to any industry, any need, and, of course, any company. While scanning fits in everywhere, its benefits are especially accentuated in a few industries–so let’s take a look to see scanning in action!

Scanning Solutions in Action

To understand a business solution, it’s often best to see that solution at work–and document scanners are no exception. Let’s see how scanning benefits a few key industries!

Finance

Financial institutions have a lot of information to handle–and it’s all extremely sensitive. Scanning helps turn stacks of financial data into digital files that are easy to protect with passwords, firewalls, user authentication, and more.

Healthcare

Healthcare organizations value efficiency perhaps more than any other industry, simply because lives are on the line. With scanning solutions, healthcare experts won’t have to waste time hunting for files, printing multiple copies for patients, or distributing notes among medical teams; instead, all this and more can be done with digitized files and a few quick clicks.

Engineering

Engineering is a delicate balance of precision and creativity–the sum of which is ultimate flexibility. Scanning supports engineers by making this flexibility possible–for example, by allowing files to be accessed on the go or utilizing version control to keep track of even the most minor changes.

Conclusion

By seeing scanning in action in a few key industries, we’ve learned what this solution is capable of in any company:
- From finance, we see that scanning prioritizes security. Every business deals with financial information, not to mention personal data, company secrets, and more–so this benefit is a big deal.
- From healthcare, we find proof that scanning can help you save time, streamline workflows, and boost efficiency across your processes–even if lives aren’t on the line.
- From engineering, it’s clear that scanning helps you maintain flexibility no matter where you are or how creative you have to get.
Basically, scanning is a pretty big deal–and it can do all this and more for your business. To see for yourself, contact us today!
4 Reasons You Need Managed Print Services
August 24, 2021 9:05 pm Leave a Comment
Do you need managed print services? Is it even right for your industry, business, and employees? These are big questions–but luckily, the reasons you do need managed print are even bigger. Let’s take a look!

Do you need managed print services? Is it even right for your industry, business, and employees? These are big questions–but luckily, the reasons you do need managed print are even bigger. Let’s take a look!

Managing Doubt with Managed Print

Every new business solution comes with a certain level of doubt. Is it worth it? Did we really need this solution? Was now the right time?

Luckily, managed print services comes with big reasons to dissolve that doubt–four big reasons, as a matter of fact!

#1: It makes printers behave.

Let’s face it: printers can be a pain. With managed print, you won’t have to worry about getting those finicky machines to behave. Instead, you’ll have a print partner who knows these machines inside and out–and, through a combination of proactive solutions and troubleshooting, that partner will be able to keep your printers in line.

#2: It saves money on almost everything.

Print costs got you down? Not anymore! Managed print services helps you understand where your money is going and why–and, armed with this information, you and your provider can cut costs, choose cheaper alternatives, and make printing budget-friendly again.

#3: It gives you access to all the bells and whistles.

If it’s printer upgrades you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place. Whether your managed print provider leases new machines or helps you budget for your own, you can rest assured that those bells and whistles will be within reach.

#4: It keeps your data safe and sound.

Did you know that multifunction printers are a huge target for hackers? Managed print services helps keep your printers–and their data–safe and sound with a host of security solutions, upgraded software, and savvy procedures.

Conclusion

Managed print services is a good choice for any business–and there are plenty of reasons why. When choosing whether to implement managed print, remember what it can do: keep printers in line, save money, upgrade your fleet, and, of course, protect your company.

If you’ve got managed print questions, we’ve got answers. Contact us today for all the help you need!
How Multifunction Printers Improve Attorney-Client Confidentiality
August 19, 2021 3:45 pm Leave a Comment
Confidentiality is an absolute necessity in the legal industry. It protects both clients and attorneys, creating a secure environment for sensitive information and enabling legal processes to proceed efficiently. Although confidentiality is often achieved via digital tools and safeguards, your law firm’s multifunction printer has just as big a role to play in protecting clients. That role requires active utilization in order to be effective.

Confidentiality is an absolute necessity in the legal industry. It protects both clients and attorneys, creating a secure environment for sensitive information and enabling legal processes to proceed efficiently. Although confidentiality is often achieved via digital tools and safeguards, your law firm’s multifunction printer has just as big a role to play in protecting clients. That role requires active utilization in order to be effective.

Making Multifunction Printers Secure

Although multifunction printers have a number of built-in security features, they remain one of the biggest targets for digital criminals, simply because many firms and other businesses do not utilize those features. When uncontrolled, printers are also the source of many internal security risks, including human error. However, when used as an active part of your law firm’s security procedures rather than being allowed to remain a vulnerability, they act as champions of attorney-client confidentiality–which is why it is critical to use multifunction printers to the extent of their security potential.

Here are three ways multifunction printers can improve confidentiality:
- Limit the risk of human error.
Because printing is often just one part of an attorney’s busy day, it is all too easy for innocent but potentially disastrous mistakes to be made. For example, if a client’s sensitive information is left on the printer tray for even a minute, it runs the risk of being accidentally picked up by the wrong attorney.

Multifunction printers can be used to eliminate the risk of this and other instances of human error. Tools like “follow-me printing” work with your printer’s existing features to hold print jobs until the correct attorney arrives at the machine to enter a unique code.
- Automate printing tasks.
Certain parts of your workflow can be automated by your multifunction printer. In addition to saving attorneys valuable time, automation limits the number of people who have contact with a client’s secure information, minimizing the risk of error, loss, or theft.
- Use tracking technology.
When an attorney scans a document at the multifunction printer, that document can then be tracked and delivered securely to another device or even an email application. Tracking improves accountability and makes confidentiality a feature built-in to your workflows.

Conclusion

Multifunction printers may be a target for digital criminals, but when utilized properly, they instead become a tool for attorney-client confidentiality–and a simple, effective way to secure your firm’s data. The key is to utilize every function and feature to its maximum potential, giving your multifunction printer an active rather than passive role in security and confidentiality.

If your firm struggles with attorney-client confidentiality, or if you want to learn more about multifunction printers, contact us today.
Konica Minolta Launches IP Pro Portal
August 13, 2021 11:43 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches IP Pro Portal
Ramsey, NJ, (August 12, 2021) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in industrial and commercial printing and packaging solutions, is pleased to announce the launch of a new portal for its industrial print (IP) customers. The IP Pro Portal is designed to help its IP customers access pertinent information and discover new ideas for marketing, growth applications and opportunities to increase profits.

Intended to provide an environment for business transformation and build a community of profitable businesses through education, networking and shared experience, the portal includes:

• A forum where customers can ask questions and get answers through a network of other Konica Minolta IP users
• A marketing repository where customers can get everything from sample files to marketing videos and tools, presentations to new growth applications and proven case studies
• Technical resources to provide operators with help to be the most efficient and productive running and servicing their presses
• A cloud-based ink estimating tool for Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e LED UV inkjet press and AccurioLabel 230 toner-based production label press

Content on the IP Pro Portal will be updated on a regular basis to give Konica Minolta’s IP customers the most up-to-date information and ideas to help them increase their profitability.

“This new IP Pro Portal is another example of our commitment to partnership with our customers, with the most up-to-date resources for success through our entire line of industrial print products, said Bill Troxil, Senior Vice President, Industrial and Production Print, Konica Minolta. “We are committed to helping our customers grow, be more profitable, and more productive.”

Konica Minolta’s IP customers will receive enrollment information via email to access the portal.
Managed IT Tips: What Every Accounting Firm IT Strategy Needs
August 12, 2021 3:21 pm Leave a Comment
No two IT strategies look alike, especially when it comes to the unique needs and specialized challenges of accounting firms. Luckily, with managed IT services on your side, it’s not just possible, but easy to create an IT strategy that fits your firm’s needs.

No two IT strategies look alike, especially when it comes to the unique needs and specialized challenges of accounting firms. Luckily, with managed IT services on your side, it’s not just possible, but easy to create an IT strategy that fits your firm’s needs.

What Is an IT Strategy?

An IT strategy is like your firm’s roadmap through all the tech challenges you might face. It gives you the guidance and direction necessary, so you can handle security concerns, upgrades, updates, mobile devices, remote work, and more–and it does all of that while constantly adapting to your changing needs.

The good news is that you don’t have to be an IT expert to create a strategy that works for your accounting firm. All you need is a managed IT services provider to be your partner in tech! Managed IT providers can analyze your firm’s needs, take special care to understand the compliance and security concerns inherent in the financial industry, and work side-by-side with you to create an actionable and efficient plan.

With managed IT on your side, your firm will have that perfect roadmap in no time.

IT For Accounting Firms

So, what does every accounting firm’s IT strategy need? Let’s take a look!

Savvy tools

These days, tech should be working for you. Your accounting firm needs tools like automated workflows or cloud storage to make IT a benefit rather than an anchor slowing you down.

Strong security

Accounting firms face unique challenges when it comes to protecting sensitive financial information. That’s why every accounting firm’s IT strategy needs to be designed around security, both online and off.

An approach that works

No IT strategy should ever be treated as “law.” Rather, your strategy should leave room for experimentation, trial and error, and new information. Meaning that, if that approach works but this one works better, you should be able to make that change without feeling like your whole tech environment will come crashing down.

In conclusion, every accounting firm needs an IT strategy–and every strategy needs excellent tools, strong security, and a flexible approach that allows room for changes. If that sounds like a lot of work (and a whole lot of questions), don’t worry–managed IT is always available to help you out.

Does your accounting firm need an IT strategy? Want some help from managed IT services? Contact us today!
Simple Scanning for Small Businesses
August 9, 2021 5:59 pm Leave a Comment
Just because your business is small doesn’t mean your stacks of paper are small too! If you’ve been looking for ways to digitize those documents, but aren’t sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know to keep scanning simple for your small business!

Just because your business is small doesn’t mean your stacks of paper are small too! If you’ve been looking for ways to digitize those documents, but aren’t sure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know to keep scanning simple for your small business!

How to Start Scanning

Document Scanning isn’t necessarily difficult, but it can be intimidating. After all, you’ve probably got a lot of documents to scan–which means that organizing, securing, and storing those files could be a lot of work, even once they’re digitized.

Luckily, you don’t have to put scanning off for another day. Instead, roll up your sleeves and get scanning by taking it one step at a time!

Step One: Make a list.

Your first step should always be making a list. Why? Well, the truth is that files are a lot easier to manage when you know what you’re working with–so instead of jumping in blind, make sure you know what you’ve got.

Step Two: Organize.

Now that you have your list, it’s time to organize it. That’s right–you’ll be organized before you even start scanning. This makes it easier to keep those files in line once they’re digitized.

Here are a few ways to organize files:
- by type,
- by date,
- by keywords,
- by content,
- or by frequency of use.
Remember, as you’re organizing, you can shred files you don’t need–that way, you won’t have to waste time scanning them.

Step Three: Assemble your team.

Small businesses can hardly afford the luxury of a dedicated scanning team, but you do have hardworking employees who want to help streamline workflows–so put them to good use. Assemble a team and delegate responsibilities, so no one feels overwhelmed.

Step Four: Take your time.

You’re ready to start scanning! Go ahead and jump in–but remember, you don’t need to do everything at once. Take your time, be savvy, and don’t let the little things slow you down.

Conclusion

Although scanning can be a big job for small businesses, it’s also a worthy one. If you’ve hesitated to begin scanning because you aren’t sure how to jump in, remember to make a list, get organized, assemble a strong team, and, of course, take your time. Soon you’ll be a scanning pro!

Looking for Canon scanners that fit small businesses? We’re here to help. Contact us today!
Managed Print Tips: How Much Does Printing Really Cost?
August 2, 2021 7:41 pm Leave a Comment
Like many business solutions, managed print services is good at all kinds of things, from cutting unnecessary steps out of your workflow to improving communication across your company–but did you know it also reveals secrets? Managed print is excellent at helping you find the * actual* cost of printing–and the truth may surprise you.

Like many business solutions, managed print services is good at all kinds of things, from cutting unnecessary steps out of your workflow to improving communication across your company–but did you know it also reveals secrets? Managed print is excellent at helping you find the * actual* cost of printing–and the truth may surprise you.

Gain Transparency with Managed Print

Managed print services isn’t just about printers. It’s about your entire print environment–your habits, needs, challenges, and even your supply ordering procedures. By looking at all of these things rather than just one or two, managed print provides the transparency you need to learn the real cost of printing in your business.

Here are a few things that you might not even realize are draining your budget:
- Number of printers
You may not spend much time thinking about how many printers are actually in your fleet, but once managed print brings it to your attention, you won’t be able to look away. The bigger the fleet, the higher the cost of supplies, energy, maintenance, and more.
- Bad supply habits
It probably doesn’t seem like the end of the world to over-order paper or buy the wrong toner–but the truth is that bad habits can wreak havoc on your budget for consumables.
- Unnecessary printing
From personal prints to documents that could just as easily have been shared online, unnecessary printing is a considerable cost–and it can seriously hurt your print environment.

Controlling Costs

The good news is that managed print doesn’t just identify the cost of printing and then leave you to deal with it on your own. Instead, it helps you choose solutions that will address all of these issues–helping streamline your fleet, improve your supply habits, and curb unnecessary printing by establishing “print rules.”

In conclusion, managed print services is an excellent tool for protecting your budget because it reveals and controls the actual cost of printing. If you want to save money without cutting corners, you couldn’t do much better.

Ready to see what managed print services can do for you? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta MFPs Exceed Industry Standards for Cybersecurity Compliance
July 27, 2021 11:40 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta MFPs Exceed Industry Standards for Cybersecurity Compliance
Ramsey, NJ, (July 27, 2021) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced results from penetration testing on its bizhub i-Series multifunction printers, conducted to ensure the product line is compliant with the highest data privacy and endpoint security standards. The bizhub i-Series features multiple next-generation technologies, including solid-state storage, a new code base, firmware and integrated cloud services. No vulnerabilities were found during recent tests performed on the devices by NTT DATA, an internationally respected IT services provider, and the Security division of NTT Ltd.

Network-connected devices offer end users tremendous opportunities for collaboration and ease of use. Unfortunately, those same endpoint devices are attractive targets for hackers. By exploiting a security vulnerability in a connected device, a skilled hacker can expose an entire network to data theft, business disruption and financial turmoil.

Konica Minolta puts their products through rigorous internal cybersecurity tests to protect their systems and ensure they meet PCI, HIPAA, FERPA and GDPR compliance requirements. But to further assure customers that the printers exceed industry standards for cybersecurity compliance, Konica Minolta invested in an extra layer of threat protection — penetration tests provided by NTT DATA and the Security division of NTT Ltd.

Konica Minolta provided a line of its multifunction printers and their source code to NTT DATA for penetration testing. After spending approximately 80 hours trying to hack into the devices, NTT DATA engineers did not find any major security vulnerabilities. These results fortify Konica Minolta’s reputation for offering secure products and helps drive the product line’s success.

“More and more frequently, our clients are asking us for penetration tests of our products, but I don’t know of a competitor that has contracted a Fortune 500 company with the penetration testing capabilities that NTT DATA has,” said Chris Bilello, Vice President, Solutions and Vertical Market Business Development, Konica Minolta. “In an environment where customers are increasingly and rightfully concerned with security, NTT DATA’s extra testing can provide an added sense of confidence.”

Visit Konica Minolta online to read the full report or watch a short video about its efforts to protect its systems from vulnerabilities.
Choosing Multifunction Printers for Small Businesses
July 21, 2021 2:20 am Leave a Comment
Does your small business need a big boost? Multifunction printers are just what you’ve been looking for! Here’s how to choose a machine that will fit just right.

Does your small business need a big boost? Multifunction printers are just what you’ve been looking for! Here’s how to choose a machine that will fit just right.

Why Multifunction?

You have a lot of options when it comes to office equipment–so why choose multifunction printers?

The truth is simple: multifunction devices are hardworking. They do a little bit of everything (it’s right there in the name!), and they do it all without sacrificing quality or quantity.

Multifunction printers are a good choice for any business because they are:
- reliable,
- efficient,
- affordable,
- secure,
- innovative,
- and adaptable.
These machines really do live up to their reputation–and the best way to know for sure is to see it for yourself.

Choosing Printers

Small businesses have different needs when it comes to office equipment. Here are a few tips for getting your hands on that perfect multifunction printer!
- Focus on your needs.
Don’t get distracted by all the things a multifunction printer can do, especially when you’re reading reviews or marketing material; instead, focus on what you need it to do.
- Consider connectivity.
Multifunction printers need to be an interconnected part of your workflow. Make sure to check that the printer can connect to your network, computers, and mobile devices before making your choice.
- Don’t forget to be realistic.
It’s easy to get swept up in the promise of a brand-new printer. However, remember that this is the device you’ll be using for years to come–so be realistic and choose a make and model that’s user-friendly, affordable, and capable of growing with your business.

In summary, multifunction printers are an excellent choice because they do a bit of everything and they do it well. To choose one for your small business, you’ll want to focus on things like connectivity, flexibility, and, of course, your company’s needs.

Ready to see for yourself what a multifunction printer can do? Need help choosing that perfect machine? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e Achieves Deinking Certification for Uncoated Paper
July 16, 2021 12:11 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e Achieves Deinking Certification for Uncoated Paper
Ramsey, NJ, (July 15, 2021) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, is pleased to announce its AccurioJet KM-1e LED UV Inkjet Press has been accredited by INGEDE, the International Association of the Deinking Industry, for the deinking of uncoated paper printed on the system, enabling such papers to go into the recycling process.

Deinking is the removal process of printing ink from recovered paper during recycling. Key process steps for deinking are the detachment of ink film from the paper, ink fragmentation into a suitable size range and removal from the pulp slurry.

“This certification gives our customers confidence they can run the widest range of substrates in the industry, while still being good stewards of the environment,” said Bill Troxil, Senior Vice President, Industrial & Production Print, Konica Minolta Business Solutions. “Our customers count on us to help them provide value to their customers and to the environment. Now, in addition to our exclusive AccurioJet KM-1e UV ink formulation with zero VOC’s, we add complete deinkability to the message.”

Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e LED UV Inkjet Press, which has been referred to as the Swiss Army Knife of printing because it has so many uses, already has the INGEDE deinking certification for coated papers, which includes recycled qualities. After rigorous testing and evaluation of uncoated papers by INGEDE, in which the KM-1e press achieved an extremely high rating in the “Assessment of Print Product Recyclability – Deinkability Test” (INGEDE Method 11), the accreditation has been extended.

The formal accreditation is another positive boost for customers, according to Hidetoshi Omo, Head of Competence KM-1 at Konica Business Solutions Europe. Omo stated, “We are extremely proud to have received the accreditation from INGEDE for the Konica Minolta AccurioJet KM-1e, which rewards a great deal of hard work and inspiration from our development teams, and underpins our commitment to sustainability. The AccurioJet KM-1e is a press that enables almost endless possibilities for printing on a vast range of different substrates, and with so few digital presses having achieved this deinking standard, the press stands out even more from the competition now, giving our customers greater possibilities to grow their businesses in a sustainable way.”

To learn more about the AccurioJet KM-1e LED UV Inkjet Press, please visit Konica Minolta online.
Is Managed IT Services Better Than In-House?
July 13, 2021 8:04 pm Leave a Comment
Ah, the age-old question: what is the best way to take care of your tech? Some companies prefer in-house teams and dedicated departments, while others are happy to put their machines in the hands of a reliable managed IT services provider. Which companies are right? Let’s find out!

Ah, the age-old question: what is the best way to take care of your tech? Some companies prefer in-house teams and dedicated departments, while others are happy to put their machines in the hands of a reliable managed IT services provider. Which companies are right? Let’s find out!

Comparing IT Solutions

When it comes to safe, reliable, efficient technology, you only want the best. That’s why it makes sense to carefully compare your options and see which choices rise above the others.

For that reason, we’re taking a close look at both in-house and outsourced IT to find out which is better–and which is right for you.

Managed IT Services

What it is:Managed IT is the perfect way to outsource your tech troubles without giving up control.

What it does: Once you’ve chosen a provider, managed IT solutions begin to roll in–for example, 24/7 network monitoring or new digital communication tools. Managed IT is all about making your existing tech work better and upgrading it when necessary–all without breaking the bank.

In-House IT

What it is: An in-house IT department or an IT manager is the more traditional choice for juggling tech trouble–but “familiar” doesn’t always mean “better.”

What it does: It’s true that in-house IT is capable of fixing your problems at least some of the time. However, although in-house teams have the advantage of knowing you and your company right off the bat, the chances are that they won’t have all the tools, solutions, and expertise necessary to help your business achieve its goals. You’ll also have to pay salaries and benefits, which takes a toll on the budget.

The Winner

The clear winner here is managed IT services. With managed IT, you get the benefits of having a whole team of experts from all kinds of tech fields, while your in-house team is limited by the types of people who happened to see your ad. Managed IT is simple, efficient, and powerful. The best part is that it leaves you in control while taking over the little tasks (and helping with the big ones).

Ready to find out what managed IT can do for you? Still not convinced it’s better than in-house IT? Contact us to see for yourself!
Is Scanning Right for Remote Workforces?
July 7, 2021 3:58 pm Leave a Comment
From remote workforces to hybrid business models, everyone has found unique ways of adapting to pandemic life. If your company had to get creative due to COVID-19, we have a solution that might make your workdays simpler and more efficient: scanning.

From remote workforces to hybrid business models, everyone has found unique ways of adapting to pandemic life. If your company had to get creative due to COVID-19, we have a solution that might make your workdays simpler and more efficient: scanning.

Why Scanning?

You have plenty of new needs and challenges right now–so why should document scanners be one of the solutions that deserve your attention?

The truth about scanning is that it’s simple yet powerful. Although it creates only a few new steps for you and your teams, it does a whole lot of good for your company, including:
- streamlined processes,
- stronger communication,
- improved document security,
- environmental friendliness,
- more flexible workflows,
- healthier budgets,
- and more.
Scanning could be just what your workforce needs–especially now when every day seems to bring a unique new challenge.

Benefits for Remote Workforces

If your teams are working from home, the chances are high that you feel a little disconnected, disorganized, and stressed. Here’s how scanning can help:
- It keeps things organized.
Working from home can get messy. Scanning, however, allows employees to keep files in the cloud or on their hard drives, limiting the risk of loss or theft of data.
- It makes work simpler.
If your teams are feeling a bit overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Simplifying everyday tasks can make a big difference–which is why scanning is such a powerful solution. (In fact, some systems even have smartphone apps that make scanning as simple as snapping a picture!)
- It’s flexible and versatile.
Whether you want a PDF of your files or would rather have a fully searchable and editable document, there’s a scanner that’s perfect for your needs. Scanning can’t be stopped by a global pandemic–and neither can you.

In conclusion, scanning is an excellent addition to any workflow because it’s simple and powerful–but it’s especially good news for remote workforces. Even when employees are working from the couch, they’ll be able to stay organized, efficient, and in touch with one another.

Is your remote or hybrid workforce looking for new solutions? Contact us to find out if scanning is the right fit!
Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress C7100 series
12:21 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress C7100 series
Ramsey, NJ, (July 6, 2021) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, is pleased to introduce the AccurioPress C7100 series, digital color presses packed with innovative technologies to create more profitable business opportunities. From intelligent automation and enhanced finishing to flawless quality, advanced capabilities and exceptional durability, customers have the power to grow their businesses through a press that works smarter.

Succeeding the highly successful AccurioPress C6100 Series, the new AccurioPress C7100 model runs at 100 pages per minute (ppm) with the AccurioPress C7090 at 90ppm. With a focus on optimizing performance, offering new and advanced print products, and growing the entire business, the AccurioPress C7100 series serves more customers and completes more jobs with innovative technologies that power success.

“Key to the development of the AccurioPress C7100 and AccurioPress C7090 was building a press that works smarter, not harder, with new technologies geared to provide stability, reliability and productivity to make businesses more profitable,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning. “These new models bring the agility that print service providers have come to expect from Konica Minolta, and serve our mission to support our clients’ transformation with opportunities for new revenue sources.”

Flawless Quality

Konica Minolta’s latest Simitri V toner is eco-friendly and formulated for performance. Fast melting, energy efficient and low maintenance, it reproduces superb quality on a wider range of media up to 400 g/m2. Combined with an output resolution of 3,600 dpi equivalent x 2,400 dpi, outstanding results are achieved from even the longest print runs.

Advanced Capabilities

With auto-duplex banners up to 900mm and the flexibility to handle embossed and textured media, handling of the machines is so simple that the most complex projects can be run by a single operator.

Intelligent Automation

By instantly detecting the precise stock being used, the optional Intelligent Media Sensor IM-101 significantly reduces production time. At the same time, the optional IQ-501 Intelligent Quality Care Unit ensures perfectly consistent color quality and front-to-back registration on every print in real time. With no recalibrations or inspections mid-run, users benefit from printing image data now directly comparable with scanning data from IQ-501 with real time variable data print (VDP) inspection. It can be inspected for changes in text and images with real time color and registration adjustment.

Enhanced Finishing

As with the entire AccurioPress portfolio, a wide range of finishing and other functions are offered, in addition to booklet-making, stapling, perfect binding and wire binding. Konica Minolta’s TU-510, the world’s first inline cutting finisher, successfully introduced with the AccurioPress C14000 high-volume production printer, is available for the AccurioPress C7100 Series. The TU-510 is a four-edge trimmer and creaser that allows full-bleed finishing support for long sheets, booklets, direct mail and dedicated business card cutting options.

Exceptional Durability

Reliability drives profitability. Among the new technologies built into the engine are a more durable lubricated drum, double corona wires with automatic cleaning, an optimized paper transport solution and a double swing registration system for improved paper compatibility and feeding accuracy.

The AccurioPress C7100 Series is designed to support a highly responsive print room environment where customers rethink agility and offers a choice of different controller front ends from EFI, CREO and Konica Minolta’s own offering to perfectly match customer requirements.

Helping customers to expand and streamline businesses

These new models support Konica Minolta’s mission to assist with the transformation of its clients’ companies by sector and industry, predicting potential challenges and creating solutions together. The devices make a powerful impression, with many simply efficient capabilities, ultimately helping customers to expand and streamline their business.

To learn more about the AccurioPress C7100, please visit Konica Minolta online.
Is Managed Print Worth the Investment?
July 1, 2021 9:52 pm Leave a Comment
When considering business solutions, you always want to know how much you’re paying and why. To decide whether a solution is really worth the investment, you have to take a close, honest look–so today, we’ll pull out the magnifying glass and tell you everything you need to know about managed print.

When considering business solutions, you always want to know how much you’re paying and why. To decide whether a solution is really worth the investment, you have to take a close, honest look–so today, we’ll pull out the magnifying glass and tell you everything you need to know about managed print.

Managed Print Basics

Managed print is a solution that allows you to outsource your print problems. It’s as simple as that!

The simplicity of the solution is one of its biggest benefits. You don’t have to worry about any complicated learning curves, and you certainly won’t have any hoops to jump through. Here’s how it works:
- #1: You choose a managed print provider.
- #2: They work with you to conduct a print audit, which provides data about print needs, habits, and budgets.
- #3: Together, you use the data from the print audit to choose targeted solutions that address your pain points.
The best part of managed print is that it doesn’t stop working after the initial round of solutions. Instead, you work with your provider to constantly grow and change, ensuring that your print environment always does precisely what you need it to do. Printing has never been so simple–which is why so many other companies have already decided that this solution is worth the investment.

What You Can Expect

Now that you know what managed print is, let’s take a look at what it does–that way, you can decide if it’s right for you.

It protects your data.

Network printers are one of the biggest security vulnerabilities in any small business. With managed print, it’s easy to secure these devices without interrupting their function or reliability.

It streamlines your workflows.

By cutting out extra steps, improving communication, and introducing solutions that make life a little easier for everyone, managed print makes your workflows strong, safe, and streamlined.

It saves money.

Managed print isn’t just an affordable solution; it also actively saves money by eliminating waste, cutting out unnecessary printing, and simplifying your supply orders.

In conclusion, managed print is worth the investment because it is simple and powerful. If you’re looking for a solution that combines efficiency, security, and cost-efficiency, you couldn’t make a better choice.

Want to see what managed print can really do? Contact us today!
Lexmark Enhances Cloud Offerings for End Users and Partners
June 30, 2021 1:07 am Comments Off on Lexmark Enhances Cloud Offerings for End Users and Partners
Jun 29, 2021

Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced enhancements to its core Cloud Services offerings—Cloud Print Management for direct users and Cloud Fleet Management for partners.

“The adoption of cloud-based technologies and solutions continues to rise, with many CIOs directing a ‘cloud-first’ approach,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief commercial officer. “The pandemic accelerated this trend, as cloud-based solutions offer an effective, secure and cost-saving way of connecting the remote and hybrid workforce in post-pandemic business environments.”

Lexmark Cloud Services addresses these trends by providing a full suite of cloud-based services to deliver remote device management, print job management, document accounting and scan management features to ensure users are always capable of printing and scanning documents, which enhances productivity and flexibility.

Lexmark Cloud Print Management (CPM) allows customers of all sizes to simplify processes, streamline costs and relieve IT burden. Updates announced today further amplify the fast, secure and scalable solution:
- Third party support—Customers with multiple brands of print devices can now utilize the industry-leading features of Lexmark Cloud Print Management across all devices, not just Lexmark devices. An external adapter attaches to the non-Lexmark printer or MFP and enables print management with badge release, without the need for additional on-premise infrastructure.
- Guest print—Ideal for businesses that offer guests print access, new guest print features allow guests to use print release. Rather than scanning a badge to release a print job with a cloud account, the guest user submits the document they wish to print, then receives a unique pin number via email to trigger print release.
Lexmark Cloud Fleet Management (CFM) enables Lexmark partners to easily configure printers, capture cost-saving metrics and keep devices current, working from a remote operations center which saves time and money. New CFM capabilities include:
- Supply level monitoring has been expanded to include supplies beyond toner, such as photoconductor, waste toner bottle, etc.
- Home screen customization is now available for easier navigation, as users can rearrange the printer home screen to best suit their specific needs.
- Copy/scan/fax counters are now listed in the same place as the print counter, for greater user convenience.
- Dashboard cards through Lexmark Cloud Services enable quick visibility and instant access to key information.
“Lexmark brings a full suite of cloud printing solutions to any print environment, from small companies to large enterprises,” Saladin said. “Our industry leadership in document and device security forms the backbone of the Lexmark Cloud, which offers the same levels of award-winning security, control and performance as our entire product line. We look forward to delivering additional cloud capabilities yet this year.”
How to Put Multifunction Printers to Work
June 23, 2021 8:36 pm Leave a Comment
Want to make sure you’re getting the most out of your multifunction printers? Put them to work with these simple tips and tricks!

Want to make sure you’re getting the most out of your multifunction printers? Put them to work with these simple tips and tricks!

Maximizing Your Printer’s Benefits

Multifunction printers come with a long list of benefits–but did you know you can maximize those benefits in all sorts of ways? The truth is that your printers are just waiting to be put to work, so roll up your sleeves and get ready to make the most of your multifunction printers!

#1: Read the manual.

Okay, okay, this one may not sound like a lot of fun–but the more you understand about your device, the more you can get out of it. You don’t have to read the manual cover to cover, but you should focus on features and functions. Here are a few things to look for:
- Color: Does your machine print in color or only black and white?
- Connectivity: Which other devices can your printer work with?
- Consumables: What types of paper and ink are best for your make and model?
- Energy savings: Are there features that, once set up, will save energy (and, thus, money)?
- Security: Does your machine come with built-in security features?
#2: Check out the available apps.

Multifunction printers are smart devices. They can connect to other devices, send documents directly to your email, and, yes, even run apps. Check out the apps available on your make and model; chances are, you’ll find a few efficiency and organization solutions just waiting to be utilized.

#3: Reorganize.

Remember that your multifunction printer is a hub of hard work and efficiency–so if that hub is placed poorly, your whole workflow could suffer. Consider the layout of your office to make sure you’re getting the most out of your multifunction printer–and if not, try a little reorganization.

Conclusion

By definition, multifunction printers exist to make your life easier. However, with just a little bit of homework, you can get even more out of the devices you already own–and soon, your multifunction printer will be working for you (not the other way around!).

Want to learn more about multifunction printers and what they can really do? Contact us today!
Managed IT Tips: What Are Hackers Really After?
June 17, 2021 8:48 pm Leave a Comment
Protecting your files, both online and off, is an everyday job–but do you know what you’re actually up against? Hackers have motivations and goals that you might not realize, which, in turn, makes it more difficult to fight back. Here are a few managed IT tips that will help you defend the highly sought-after files in your workplace!

Protecting your files, both online and off, is an everyday job–but do you know what you’re actually up against? Hackers have motivations and goals that you might not realize, which, in turn, makes it more difficult to fight back. Here are a few managed IT tips that will help you defend the highly sought-after files in your workplace!

Hacker’s Paradise

Let’s say all the defense systems in the world went down–no passwords, no user authentication, no red flag warnings to protect your data from uninvited guests. With all of these obstacles eliminated, hackers could take anything they wanted–so what would they grab first?
- Medical data
Medical data brings in the most value on the “digital black market,” as it’s especially sensitive–but this isn’t just a concern for healthcare organizations. Any medical information you have about employees or customers is at risk.
- Financial data
Financial data is one of the most obvious “treasures” in a hacker’s paradise. With this information, the digital bad guys can drain bank accounts, use credit cards, and ruin futures.
- Personal files
Personal files can include anything from family photos to the latest draft of that sure-to-be-a-bestseller crime novel you work on in your spare time. While these things don’t necessarily pay well if hackers try to resell them, they do tend to motivate companies and individuals to hand over a ransom.
- Government info
Government info includes any details you share for official purposes. While not worth as much to hackers, this information can still wreak havoc for your company.

Why it Matters

It’s important to know which of your files are in high demand because, armed with that information, you’ll know what to defend.

The good news is that with a little help from managed IT services, your most important files–and all the other ones, too–can be kept safe and sound without breaking a sweat. Managed IT providers work with you to implement solutions and create procedures that will protect files, improve habits, and eliminate security risks without adding a thousand extra steps to your workflows or draining your budget. Together, you and your provider will make sure “hacker’s paradise” never exists.

Want to learn more about managed IT services and how it protects your files? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e Press Wins BLI 2021-2022 PaceSetter Award from Keypoint Intelligence
June 13, 2021 4:26 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e Press Wins BLI 2021-2022 PaceSetter Award from Keypoint Intelligence
Ramsey, NJ (June 9, 2021) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce it has received a Buyers Lab (BLI) 2021-2022 PaceSetter in Production Print Applications: Output Variety from Keypoint Intelligence, the world’s leading and independent evaluator of document imaging hardware, software and services. Based on research conducted in the North American market, these accolades celebrate those OEMs that best support their customers on reducing costs and/or increasing business based on different printing applications. Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e LED UV Inkjet Press was specifically recognized for its ability to print on a wide variety of substrates.

Konica Minolta Provides Output Variety Galore

Being able to print in a larger variety of substrates increases the number of applications that a print service provider (PSP) can produce and sell. And according to feedback from Keypoint Intelligence, the Konica Minolta AccurioJet KM-1e with UV inks enables users to print on an array of media that other cut-sheet technologies cannot, while greeting cards, gift cards, hotel room keys, and even ID badges can be printed on texture film or PVC. Other applications could be printed on synthetics, PET adhesive, polypropylene, and polyethylene.

“Art applications printed on canvas sizes up to 23″x29.5″ can be output on the KM-1e,” said German Sacristan, Director of On Demand Printing at Keypoint Intelligence. “Additionally, the KM-1e has an offline laser-cutting system specifically built for the B2+ sheet size that is capable of producing different types of sleek finishes. Also important is that Konica Minolta supports its customers’ success with business development and a customized professional service program.”

“The AccurioJet KM-1e is a key part of our strategy to enable our strategic customers to grow their businesses and maximize their workflow efficiency leading to higher and sustainable long-term profitability,” said Bill Troxil, Senior Vice President, Industrial and Inkjet Printing, Konica Minolta. “This recognition from Keypoint Intelligence affirms our leadership position in the North American marketplace with our LED UV inkjet technology and finishing solutions, and we are proud to receive this honor.”

Launched in June, 2020, and inheriting excellence from the AccurioJet KM-1, the AccurioJet KM-1e embodies infinite business expansion possibilities, from current business fields to more profitable businesses. The device amplified benefits of the LED UV inkjet technology to maximize quality and printing capability on various types of media such as plastics, backlit signage, transparent film, foiled paper, metallic media, canvas and synthetic substrates. The AccurioJet KM-1e continues to help customers pursue high value-added products where high-quality production, extensive media compatibility and personalization are required.

Keypoint Intelligence’s Pacesetter Awards in Production Print Applications are aimed at finding the digital print manufacturing vendors that best support their customers in terms of driving applications to success. The companies recognized help buyers communicate more effectively via print, which ultimately contributes to the growth of digital printing.

Learn more online about Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e LED UV Inkjet press.
Scanning Secrets: 3 Simple Approaches
June 9, 2021 7:12 pm Leave a Comment
Want to learn not one, not two, but three easy ways to scan files, depending on your needs and budget? Read on to find out more about this well-kept scanning secret!

Want to learn not one, not two, but three easy ways to scan files, depending on your needs and budget? Read on to find out more about this well-kept scanning secret!

The Truth, Unveiled

You may think that owning a huge machine is the only way to get your scanning done–but that’s not the case. In truth, there are actually three ways to scan documents, which means that, no matter what, there’s a solution to fit your company, your needs, and your budget. Let’s take a closer look!

Approach #1: Multifunction printers

Budget: Multifunction printers (MFPs) are best for companies with a sizable print budget. They pay for themselves over time, but they aren’t a good fit if you don’t plan to use them long-term.

Efficiency: MFPs work hard. They’re fast, accurate, and capable of scanning high volumes in short periods of time.

Features: Multifunction printers scan, yes, but they also print, copy, and fax. Some of them even come with finishing options and additional features, like scanning directly to your email.

Approach #2: Scanners

Budget: Standalone scanners are more affordable, but they also don’t have the multitasking power of an MFP.

Efficiency: Canon Scanners are simple, straightforward, and effective. They’re best for moderately sized jobs and can get the job done quickly and accurately.

Features: There are different “levels” of scanners. Some are basic, literally just scanning your files, while others will read and interpret characters, images, and more to create fully searchable documents on your computer.

Approach #3: Apps

Budget: By far the cheapest and simplest option, apps work with your smartphone to digitize files quickly–but sometimes accuracy is less reliable.

Efficiency: Remember, you get what you pay for. While apps are a good choice for small scanning jobs, they aren’t very efficient and can slow down the process if you have more than a few documents.

Features: The good news is that you have lots of options when it comes to apps, and you can use smartphones or other mobile devices that you already own.

Want to learn more about scanning? Wondering which scanning approach is best for you? Contact us today!
How Managed Print Solves Education Problems
May 27, 2021 7:29 pm Leave a Comment
The world of education is an important one, but it comes with all kinds of challenges and uncertainties. Luckily, there’s one solution that doesn’t just keep up but actually helps educational organizations get ahead: managed print services.

The world of education is an important one, but it comes with all kinds of challenges and uncertainties. Luckily, there’s one solution that doesn’t just keep up but actually helps educational organizations get ahead: managed print services.

Starting at the Printer

Since most education challenges are based on funding, organization, or communication, it might seem strange to start at the printer–but managed print services prove that this is one step that no educational organization will ever regret. Managed print helps address some of the biggest struggles in the world of education–all with simple tools, solutions, and procedures that don’t interrupt student experience or drain the budget.

Let’s take a look at some common problems in education and how managed print can address them!

Problems
- Funding:
Schools usually have tight budgets, meaning that they don’t have a lot of room to experiment with tools and solutions.
- Organization:
With so much information to handle on a daily basis, it’s easy for educational organizations to get overwhelmed. This is especially true with larger student bodies or a larger staff.
- Communication:
Education requires communication–not just internally, but also between teachers and students, teachers and parents, and even multiple schools in a district. This can be difficult when there are no rules in place for how information is expected to be created and shared.

Solutions
- Funding:
Managed print helps address budget concerns not just by being an affordable solution itself, but also by finding places where educational organizations can cut costs without cutting corners. For example, by introducing print rules that help staff understand when to print and when not to print, it’s possible to save money on consumables.
- Organization:
With managed print, schools can get and stay organized by utilizing a variety of flexible tools and solutions. Managed print helps control documents through every stage of the life-cycle, meaning there will always be answers in place to help students and educators know what they’re looking for, where it is, and how to get it.
- Communication:
Managed print services adapts to a school’s unique needs and goals, allowing communication to happen naturally and smoothly–all without forcing teachers, students, parents, or school faculty to worry about the how or where. Instead, a managed print provider takes care of the little details, leaving members of the education community to focus on making the grade.

Managed print services is an excellent fit for the world of education–and lots of other industries, too. Contact us today to see for yourself!
Copiers vs. Multifunction Printers
May 20, 2021 5:33 pm Leave a Comment
It’s an office device grudge-match! When it comes to your company’s paper needs, which machine will win your loyalty: copiers or multifunction printers? Let’s find out!

It’s an office device grudge-match! When it comes to your company’s paper needs, which machine will win your loyalty: copiers or multifunction printers? Let’s find out!

Two Go in, One Comes Out

Even the most environmentally conscious company will probably need a paper document processed at some point, which means copiers and multifunction printers still have an important place in the business world. However, that doesn’t mean these machines have to look and perform the same way they always have–or that one has the edge over the other just because it may be more familiar.

Of course, there’s only one way to find out which machine fits into your company’s unique environment: an office device grudge match! Let’s get started:

Copiers
- Price: Copiers tend to be cheaper upfront, but the price per copy is higher than what an MFP offers. Copiers are also more expensive overall because they provide only one main job in your fleet, meaning that you’ll need other devices to fill in the gaps.
- Paper size: Many copiers can work with your standard 8.5×11 paper, but they can also handle copy jobs up to 12×18. This gives them a bit of an edge in the flexibility department–but only if nonstandard copy jobs are a frequent occurrence in your office.
- Features and functions: The truth is in the name. Copiers are, for the most part, just copiers, and although they may come with a few additional features, they usually aren’t hailed as multitasking workhorses in the business world.
Multifunction Printers
- Price: Multifunction printers are pricier upfront, but cost less to operate in the long run. They also save money by combining print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities in one machine, meaning you won’t have to pay for an entire fleet to get the job done.
- Paper size: When it comes to multifunction printers, you have a little less flexibility with paper size. Keep this in mind when shopping for your ideal machine.
- Features and functions: Naturally, multifunction printers are like the Swiss army knife of the printing world, which means they do a bit of everything. In addition to their four main functions, they often come with finishing options, advanced connectivity, efficiency tools, and more.
So, when it comes to your needs, which machine is the winner of this office device grudge match? Whether it’s copiers or multifunction printers, we’re here to help–so contact us today!
How Managed IT Services Helps You Stay Sane
May 13, 2021 8:36 pm Leave a Comment
Do you ever feel like you’re just juggling too many responsibilities in your company? Don’t let some little tech problem be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. Instead, let managed IT services help keep you sane!

Do you ever feel like you’re just juggling too many responsibilities in your company? Don’t let some little tech problem be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. Instead, let managed IT services help keep you sane!

Tech Troubles, Solved

Let’s face it: as helpful as technology can be, it’s a huge pain. Software updates, security risks, random error messages, glitches, connection issues, and more–it’s a lot for any one person, one team, or even one company to handle!

That’s why managed IT services is quickly becoming every company’s new best friend. Instead of leaving you all alone with your tech troubles, managed IT allows you to outsource your technological responsibilities to friendly, responsible, reliable professionals with experience in a variety of relevant fields. With a managed IT team at your side, you’ll never have to worry about one little tech issue breaking the camel’s back.

Here are a few ways managed IT services helps keep you sane:

No more cost concerns

Whether you’re wondering where all your IT money is going or you’re worried about overpaying for tech solutions, managed IT services has just the answer you need. By analyzing your IT environment from top to bottom, your provider helps you understand how money flows through your business–and how to keep more of it in your pocket.

Better tools

Have you been daydreaming about the latest and greatest tech, only to get a rude awakening from your budget? Managed IT can help you schedule and save for all the upgrades your heart desires–that way, you end up with the right tools at the right time.

Stress-free security

IT security is no joke. Managed IT services take this stress off your shoulders with 24/7 monitoring, regular software updates, flexible security solutions designed to address your unique needs, and more. It’s time for you to take a breather!

Interested in managed IT services? Looking for other business solutions to help you stay sane? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress C14000 Wins BLI 2021 PRO Award from Keypoint Intelligence
May 10, 2021 11:33 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress C14000 Wins BLI 2021 PRO Award from Keypoint Intelligence
Ramsey, NJ (May 10, 2021) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce it has received a Buyers Lab (BLI) 2021 PRO Award from Keypoint Intelligence, the world’s leading and independent evaluator of document imaging hardware, software and services. Granted annually, these awards acknowledge the products that gave the best performances in production field testing over the previous year. Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress C14000 with EFI Fiery IC-319 Controller took top honors in the Outstanding High-Volume CMYK Production Device High-Volume Category and was identified as a trailblazer in the digital production marketplace.

“Konica Minolta’s innovative IQ-501 Intelligent Quality Optimizer has impressed us since its launch, allowing for quick, best practice color setup and media-registration profiling, with inline checking and adjustment tolerances controllable by the operator,” said David Sweetnam, Director of EMEA/Asia Research & Lab Services at Keypoint Intelligence. “This technology helped the device deliver an outstanding performance over our production-length tests where, over 67,000 clicks, the device never drifted above DeltaE00 3.4, nor did it exhibit an image-registration shift of more than 0.3 mm.”

Another key technology innovation noted by Keypoint Intelligence that separates the Konica Minolta AccurioPress C14000 from its peers is the new TU-510 Versatile Trimmer Unit. This inline, four-edge trimmer and creaser allows full-bleed finishing support for banners, booklets, direct mail and a dedicated business card cutting option.

“We are extremely pleased to have made such a successful entry into the high-volume toner printing segment with the C14000 Series, affirmed by this honor from Keypoint Intelligence,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “The IQ-501 Intelligent Quality Optimizer is our differentiator in the market and allows us to take color consistency and registration accuracy to the next level for our customers. We are tremendously proud to be recognized for this technology.”

The C14000 Series has won numerous awards since its launch in late 2019, including the “ Good Design Award 2020” from the Japan Institute of Design Promotion, the “Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021,” and most recently the iF DESIGN AWARD 2021, from the Hannover-based iF International Forum Design GmbH, the world’s oldest independent design forum. In addition, earlier this year both the AccurioPress C14000 and C12000 achieved two Idealliance® certifications – the Digital Electrophotographic Press Certification and ISO/PAS 15339 System Certification.
Scanning Tips: Is a Scanner Upgrade Worth It?
May 3, 2021 6:00 am Leave a Comment
“Upgrade” can be a scary word, especially when it comes to tried-and-true office equipment. However, the truth is that most things are easier with a faster, smarter, more reliable machine–and scanning is no exception. Read on to decide for yourself whether a Canon scanner upgrade is really worth it!

Why Upgrade?

Most companies flinch just thinking about upgrades. They can be expensive, frustrating, and stressful–but the good news is that they don’t have to be, especially when you do your research and choose a machine that is going to help rather than hurt your business.

When it comes to scanning, this is especially true. Here are a few good reasons to add shiny new scanners to your fleet!

#1: Cost

New scanners come with a price tag, but believe it or not, you usually end up paying less for a new machine than you would for maintenance and repairs on your old one. (Plus, when you take advantage of trade-in offers, you can make a deal your budget will thank you for!)

#2: Compatibility

Technology is a fast-moving game, and if your hardware can’t keep up, your software is likely to leave it in the dust. Upgraded scanners are compatible with all the latest apps, tools, and solutions, which makes your work life a whole lot easier.

#3: Security

Your existing scanner might not be showing its age, but it’s still vulnerable–especially to certain types of digital attacks. Newer machines, on the other hand, come with built-in features to protect your data and your company from the digital bad guys.

#4: Reliability

If you feel like you’re minutes away from scanner failure at any given time, an upgrade is probably your best bet. After all, a scanner you can’t count on is no scanner at all!

#5: Features, features, features

New machines come with all the bells and whistles–and scanners are no exception. Want optical character recognition, email compatibility, automation, and more? An upgrade is just what you’re looking for.

So, is a scanner upgrade worth it? Contact us today for help with this and all your scanning needs!
Lexmark Launches Cloud Bridge Connectivity Suite
12:50 am Comments Off on Lexmark Launches Cloud Bridge Connectivity Suite
LEXINGTON, Ky., April 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the launch of Lexmark Cloud Bridge, a connectivity suite that empowers workplace flexibility. Lexmark Cloud Bridge expands access to advanced managed print services (MPS) capabilities for direct enterprise customers in complex network environments, and brings powerful remote fleet management capabilities via Cloud Services to a broader set of partners and devices.

“Customers expect the same level of MPS support on any device in any type of network environment or location. Our partners must be equipped to deliver remote support in a similar manner,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief commercial officer. “We developed Lexmark Cloud Bridge to simply and securely bring advanced MPS functionality via the cloud to all network environments—from enterprise corporate headquarters, to distributed environments, and the individual home office.”

The Lexmark Cloud Bridge device connectivity suite unlocks advanced print services capabilities in any network environment. This enables customers and partners to:
- Reduce IT burden and the cost of printing infrastructure
- Increase device uptime with predictive service
- Keep printers secure with cloud-based configuration and firmware updates
- Empower fleet visibility through a consolidated portal and interactive analytics
- Enable remote management of hyper-distributed fleets
The suite includes a Native Agent that ships standard on many newer Lexmark devices, a Printer Agent that runs on solution-enabled printers that are not IoT native, a Fleet Agent that runs on a server or PC for flexibility to aggregate data on-premise with a server-based solution, and a Local Agent that supports direct PC to printer connectivity. The extensible Lexmark Cloud Bridge architecture can be expanded to address future connectivity requirements for maximum flexibility.

Lexmark’s unique industry position as an end-to-end technology owner enables this seamless device-to-backend system connectivity. From the print engine to device communication to its single global IoT system, Lexmark advanced technology architecture delivers a truly integrated connectivity solution that brings advanced services to customers no matter where they reside or what network complexity they may face.

“Lexmark Cloud Bridge connectivity suite enables us to securely deliver our industry-leading print services anywhere, at any time, to any print environment—from a 100,000-device global fleet to a single device in a remote home office,” Saladin said. “The Lexmark Cloud Bridge architecture base is a strong new foundation that positions us meet the needs of our customers and partners today and in the future.”

A phased global rollout of Lexmark Cloud Bridge begins in the U.S. today.
What is Managed Print Services, Anyway?
April 28, 2021 6:00 am Leave a Comment
If you’ve been hearing all about managed print services but still aren’t sure what the fuss is, you’re in the right place. Here are all your managed print questions, answered!

FAQs

No matter what type of business solution you’re implementing, you’re going to have a lot of questions–and managed print services is no exception. Let’s take a look at all the answers you’ll ever need!

“What is managed print?”

Managed print is a way to outsource your print problems for good. No more worrying about printers, paper jams, network connections, or upgrades; managed print can help you tackle all this and more!

“What is a managed print provider?”

A managed print provider is the company responsible for providing your managed print services. They act like a “print partner,” helping you analyze your company’s print environment to identify strengths and weaknesses–and, armed with this information, they work side-by-side with you to choose targeted tools and solutions.

“What is a print audit?”

A print audit is your provider’s way of learning more about your print environment, your habits, your supply usage, your needs, and more. Your provider will collect data from all over your company to learn how printers fit into your workflows–and, of course, you’ll be able to repeat the process as often as necessary to check your company’s progress or look for new issues.

“What should I expect from managed print services?”

In general, you can expect reliable service, troubleshooting, network support, supply and device delivery, and more. However, the list of benefits goes on and on, including:
- stronger communication,
- better organization,
- more reliable security procedures,
- less wasted time and money,
- streamlined workflows,
- and more.
Interested in managed print services? Still have more questions? Contact us today for all the help you need!
Lexmark Launches Cloud Bridge Connectivity Suite
12:42 am Comments Off on Lexmark Launches Cloud Bridge Connectivity Suite
LEXINGTON, Ky., April 27, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the launch of Lexmark Cloud Bridge, a connectivity suite that empowers workplace flexibility. Lexmark Cloud Bridge expands access to advanced managed print services (MPS) capabilities for direct enterprise customers in complex network environments, and brings powerful remote fleet management capabilities via Cloud Services to a broader set of partners and devices.

“Customers expect the same level of MPS support on any device in any type of network environment or location. Our partners must be equipped to deliver remote support in a similar manner,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief commercial officer. “We developed Lexmark Cloud Bridge to simply and securely bring advanced MPS functionality via the cloud to all network environments—from enterprise corporate headquarters, to distributed environments, and the individual home office.”

The Lexmark Cloud Bridge device connectivity suite unlocks advanced print services capabilities in any network environment. This enables customers and partners to:
- Reduce IT burden and the cost of printing infrastructure
- Increase device uptime with predictive service
- Keep printers secure with cloud-based configuration and firmware updates
- Empower fleet visibility through a consolidated portal and interactive analytics
- Enable remote management of hyper-distributed fleets
The suite includes a Native Agent that ships standard on many newer Lexmark devices, a Printer Agent that runs on solution-enabled printers that are not IoT native, a Fleet Agent that runs on a server or PC for flexibility to aggregate data on-premise with a server-based solution, and a Local Agent that supports direct PC to printer connectivity. The extensible Lexmark Cloud Bridge architecture can be expanded to address future connectivity requirements for maximum flexibility.

Lexmark’s unique industry position as an end-to-end technology owner enables this seamless device-to-backend system connectivity. From the print engine to device communication to its single global IoT system, Lexmark advanced technology architecture delivers a truly integrated connectivity solution that brings advanced services to customers no matter where they reside or what network complexity they may face.

“Lexmark Cloud Bridge connectivity suite enables us to securely deliver our industry-leading print services anywhere, at any time, to any print environment—from a 100,000-device global fleet to a single device in a remote home office,” Saladin said. “The Lexmark Cloud Bridge architecture base is a strong new foundation that positions us meet the needs of our customers and partners today and in the future.”

A phased global rollout of Lexmark Cloud Bridge begins in the U.S. today.
Multifunction Printers for Remote Workers
April 24, 2021 2:11 pm Leave a Comment
Remote work is here to stay–which means that multifunction printers are a crucial tool for helping employees stay organized, efficient, and connected even from their living rooms. However, choosing the right device for a home office comes with a lot of unique considerations. Here’s everything you need to know!

Remote work is here to stay–which means that multifunction printers are a crucial tool for helping employees stay organized, efficient, and connected even from their living rooms. However, choosing the right device for a home office comes with a lot of unique considerations. Here’s everything you need to know!

The Right Choice

Back in the days when everyone worked at the office and nobody knew much about “social distancing,” multifunction printer selection was pretty cut and dry:
- Identify which features you need.
- Consider your budget.
- Choose a device that can grow with your business.
Well, now that change is upon us, and remote work is here to stay, this process looks a whole lot different. When everyone is working from the couch, and home offices are part of that “new normal,” how can you select devices that will check all the boxes–especially if you don’t yet know what all those boxes are?

The most important thing to do is remember that a multifunction printer should make your work life easier, not more stressful. With that in mind, here are a few tips for choosing multifunction printers that work for remote employees:

Tip #1: Begin with a budget.

Your budget should still be an important part of the decision-making process when it comes to multifunction printers–however, keep in mind that things will look a little different. You’ll have new things to consider, like the unforeseen costs that might come with remote work, but you also won’t have to pay for office maintenance or shared equipment.

Tip #2: Consider connectivity.

A multifunction printer with network connectivity is likely your best bet for keeping remote workers “in the loop.” While this can pose certain challenges, like helping employees troubleshoot remotely, it can also bring a lot of benefits–like mobile print options, compatibility with digital communication apps, and more.

Tip #3: Have fun with features.

Working from home doesn’t have to be stressful. Multifunction printers come with all kinds of bells and whistles that can keep employees creative and productive, even from the couch–so remember to do your research and choose devices that will fit your company’s new at-home needs.

Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Looking for remote work solutions? Contact us today!
The Most Important Part of a Managed IT Contract
April 16, 2021 11:58 pm Leave a Comment
Once you’ve decided that managed IT services is a good fit, chosen that perfect provider, and prepared yourself to move forward on this new tech journey, you’ll be asked to sign a contract. You might think you know the most important part of this legally binding agreement–but you might be surprised. Read on to find out everything you need to know!

Once you’ve decided that managed IT services is a good fit, chosen that perfect provider, and prepared yourself to move forward on this new tech journey, you’ll be asked to sign a contract. You might think you know the most important part of this legally binding agreement–but you might be surprised. Read on to find out everything you need to know!

Greater Than the Sum of its Parts

A managed IT services contract is kind of like a roadmap for the future of your company’s tech. It helps you know what to expect as well as what’s expected of you–and it also protects you in case any questions or disputes arise.

Usually, a managed IT contract has a few critical parts:
- terms,
- important dates,
- payment arrangements,
- maintenance agreements,
- explanations of offered services,
- and legal information.
Looking at this list, you may not be entirely sure what the most crucial part is. After all, each of these elements is critical in protecting your business and creating a managed IT plan you can rely on.

While that may be true, the reality is that a managed IT contract’s most important part is its execution. This is where a contract becomes greater than the sum of its parts and delivers the promised services and benefits.

Managed IT contract execution looks like this:

Data backups

One of the first steps your new provider will take is creating data backups. These should be part of the services outlined in your contract because they’re a critical piece in the digital security puzzle.

Security

A good managed IT contract will let you know what to expect from your provider in terms of data protection–including network scans, 24/7 monitoring, and regular updates to firewalls and security software.

Disaster recovery plans

As your contract is executed step-by-step, you’ll find that a disaster recovery plan falls into place. You’ll know what to do in case of a data emergency, how to prioritize devices and information, and how you can stay organized and efficient even in the face of disaster.

Want to learn more about managed IT services? Need to know how to read a managed IT contract? Contact us today!
The Role of Scanning for Remote Work
April 9, 2021 12:37 am Leave a Comment
If remote work has changed the way you do just about everything, then the chances are high that you’re looking for some sleek, powerful, reliable, and, most importantly, mobile solutions. Believe it or not, the one tool that can make the difference has been here all along: scanning.

If remote work has changed the way you do just about everything, then the chances are high that you’re looking for some sleek, powerful, reliable, and, most importantly, mobile solutions. Believe it or not, the one tool that can make the difference has been here all along: scanning.

Complex Problems, Simple Solutions

Now, you might be thinking to yourself, “Document Scanning? Why scanning?” It’s a fair question; after all, most companies are looking for cutting-edge new solutions to address new problems related to remote work, quarantine, and the other challenges of pandemic life.

The truth, though, is that scanning is one simple solution to a lot of complex problems–making it particularly powerful.

Take, for example, communication in the era of remote work. When teams are dispersed across town or maybe even across the country, it’s challenging to make sure everyone has access to the necessary files. However, scan those files, and suddenly the solution is as easy as finding a document sharing tool to keep everyone on the same page.

Yes, scanning is simple–but it’s a springboard that can launch your company into all kinds of success, even from the comfort of your couch.

Making Remote Work a Breeze

So, now that you know why scanning is about to become the best friend of every remote worker let’s find out exactly how it fits into the big picture!
- Efficiency
  
  Without scanning, you’d probably have to fax copies of your most important documents to all of your employees. That’s both frustrating and unrealistic–not to mention a huge security risk. Instead, let scanning make remote work a little bit easier by giving you a quick, efficient way to give employees access to digital documents.
- Accuracy
  
  When your team is scattered, it can be tricky to ensure that all of your information is up-to-date, accurate, and reliable. However, when documents are scanned and well-organized, it’s much easier to be sure that employees are updating files, using the latest version of every document, and staying in the loop.
- Simplicity
  
  Let’s face it: the last thing your company needs right now is more stress. Scanning is a simple, stress-free solution that addresses issues without creating any more. It’s also user-friendly and highly flexible, meaning that it can be whatever you need it to be–no matter what.
Want to learn more about scanning? Looking for remote work solutions? Contact us today!
Lexmark Honored With 5-Star Rating in the 2021 CRN® Partner Program Guide
April 8, 2021 1:04 am Comments Off on Lexmark Honored With 5-Star Rating in the 2021 CRN® Partner Program Guide
Lexington, Ky., April 6, 2021 – Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, is being acknowledged by CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, in its 2021 Partner Program Guide. This annual guide provides a conclusive list of the most distinguished partner programs from leading technology companies that provide products and services through the IT Channel. The 5-Star rating is awarded to an exclusive group of companies that offer solution providers the best of the best, going above and beyond in their partner programs.

Given the importance of IT vendor channel programs, each year CRN develops its Partner Program Guide to provide the channel community with a detailed look at the partner programs offered by IT manufacturers, software developers, service companies, and distributors. Vendors are scored based on investments in program offerings, partner profitability, partner training, education and support, marketing programs and resources, sales support, and communication.

Lexmark was honored for its Lexmark Connect program, which features different tracks tailored to a partner’s specific business model and customer base with geo-specific offers and programs that consider a partner’s unique challenges. The program’s tiered rewards structure makes it easy for partners to grow revenue and profitability.

“Recognition for the fourth consecutive year in CRN’s Partner Program Guide and 5-Star rating validates our continued commitment to our channel partners,” Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief commercial officer. “The Lexmark Connect partner program aims to deliver secure, reliable devices and innovative solutions that differentiate our partners and help them build long-lasting relationships with their customers. The 5-Star recognition confirms this program delivers real value to Lexmark partners.”

“As innovation continues to fuel the speed and intricacy of technology, solution providers need partners that can keep up and support their developing business,” said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. “CRN’s 2021 Partner Program Guide gives insight into the strengths of each organization’s program to recognize those that continually support and push positive change inside the IT channel.”

The 2021 Partner Program Guide will be featured in the April 2021 issue of CRN and online at www.CRN.com/PPG.
How Does Managed Print Save Money?
April 2, 2021 11:40 pm Leave a Comment
Managed print is known as a money-saving solution, but how does it work? What makes managed print your budget’s best friend? Here’s everything you need to know!

Managed print is known as a money-saving solution, but how does it work? What makes managed print your budget’s best friend? Here’s everything you need to know!

The Truth About Managed Print

It’s no secret that saving money is a huge priority in the business world–but often, that’s easier said than done. Luckily, with solutions like managed print, your business can find creative ways to save money without cutting corners. In fact, managed print makes it possible to save money while also improving communication, efficiency, and security.

Sound too good to be true?

Here are a few ways managed print helps save money (and do a few other great things along the way!):
- #1: Managed print makes your habits transparent.
  
  Whether it’s over-ordering supplies, printing too much, or leaving documents on the printer tray, every business has a few bad habits. Managed print helps you gather data from your devices and processes that will show you where these habits exist, how they’re hurting your budget, and–even better–how to fix them.
- #2: Managed print makes the future a little more certain.
  
  You might not know exactly what’s coming tomorrow, but you can be a bit more prepared for it. Managed print makes it easy to track your company’s trends–for example, how much ink and paper you use in a month–so that you know how to plan for the future. It’s also flexible, scalable, and affordable, which means it’s a highly pandemic-friendly solution.
- #3: Managed print makes costs simple.
  
  By helping you uncover the “hidden costs” of printing, like maintenance or energy use, managed print makes it easy to see where your money is going. It also helps you choose targeted solutions that will address your concerns without impacting efficiency.
Want to learn more about managed print and see how it can save money for your business? Contact us today!
Are Multifunction Printers a Good Investment?
March 28, 2021 2:25 pm Leave a Comment
When it comes to office solutions, you don’t just want a temporary bandage for your problems–you want a long-term investment that will continue creating benefits for years to come. Believe it or not, a multifunction printer might be precisely what you’re looking for. Here’s what you need to know!

When it comes to office solutions, you don’t just want a temporary bandage for your problems–you want a long-term investment that will continue creating benefits for years to come. Believe it or not, a multifunction printer might be precisely what you’re looking for. Here’s what you need to know!

Don’t Call it Quits

You might be tempted to say that printing is a thing of the past. After all, the social world has gone digital, and the business world isn’t far behind. Is buying a printer even worth it anymore?

The answer is, and probably always will be, yes.

Multifunction printers are never going out of style. The truth is that printing will always be part of the business world–at least, until we all have robot butlers and the whole world has gone entirely online, that is. Printers aren’t just a short-term solution; they are a long-term investment in your company’s communication, organization, and customer service.

Here are a few more reasons why a multifunction printer is an excellent investment:
- People like paper. You might be ready to communicate completely online, but that doesn’t mean your clients are. It’s best to do a little bit of both–and multifunction printers can make it happen.
- Printing can sometimes be more convenient. Your apps and digital tools might fail you, but a printer is always right there when you need it. As long as you’re savvy about your habits, printing can sometimes be the most convenient choice.
- Occasionally, it’s the law. Hard copies are required for especially important or sensitive documents–for example, financial records or insurance policies.
At the end of the day, the truth is that multifunction printers are here to stay because they’re capable of adapting to new needs, goals, and challenges. As the world goes digital, multifunction printers offer solutions to fill in the gaps–and that’s a good investment.

Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta Receives BLI PaceSetter Award from Keypoint Intelligence for the Legal Vertical
March 20, 2021 8:00 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Receives BLI PaceSetter Award from Keypoint Intelligence for the Legal Vertical
Ramsey, NJ (March 18, 2021) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce it has received a prestigious Buyers Lab (BLI) 2021-2022 PaceSetter Award in Legal Market: Visionary Leadership. Based on research conducted in the North American market, this accolade recognizes the document imaging solution provider that stood out in Keypoint Intelligence’s proprietary study that drilled into key categories including company vision, hardware and software portfolios suitable for the legal market, and professional and IT services. This is the second time Konica Minolta has been honored for its legal solutions, having received the first-ever PaceSetter Award granted in this vertical in 2018.

The study drilled into approximately 40 points of differentiation spread across key categories including company vision, hardware and software portfolios, and professional and IT services.

In particular, Konica Minolta rose to the top thanks to its wide range of IT offerings. The company’s All Covered IT services division maintains a legal-specific support practice, The Lawyer’s Help Desk™, with staff specifically trained in leading legal software. Konica Minolta also offers on-premises and cloud-accessible software tailored to legal professionals in areas like document management, billing, financial management, practice management, and e-discovery. Just as importantly, thoughtfully curated and communicated content in its legal portal site enables direct and partner sales personnel to recognize and confidently address the needs of legal customers. These invaluable resources include the sharing of market trends and strategies in legal podcasts and playbooks, a legal certification program for sales reps, and much more.

“Following an unprecedented year of challenges, particularly for the legal industry, whose business model is not traditionally open to remote working, we are particular honored to be recognized for our efforts to help our clients pivot to an alternative way of practicing law,” said Zina Motley-Weaver, National Practice Manager, Legal and Finance, Konica Minolta. “At Konica Minolta, we believe strongly in being a consultative partner, especially during difficult times, and are at the ready to provide new value in the face of adversity. From those firms who were already strategically partnered with us to support remote work, to those we helped to quickly transition at the start of the pandemic, we are proud to be an ally to this industry.”

“Konica Minolta has demonstrated impressive foresight with not only an innovative portfolio of products and services for legal market customers but a solid foundation of sales enablement for internal and partner sales teams, too,” said Jamie Bsales, Keypoint Intelligence’s Director of Smart Workplace & Security Analysis. “This invaluable content includes thoughtfully curated and communicated content in its legal portal site, the sharing of market trends and strategies in legal podcasts and playbooks, and a certification program for sales reps that ensures they can confidently address the needs of customers.”

Read Keypoint Intelligence’s announcement about its BLI 2021-2022 PaceSetter Award in Legal online.
The What, Why, & How of Managed IT
6:14 pm Leave a Comment
Have big questions about managed IT services? We’re here to answer them! Here’s everything you need to know about this efficient, cost-effective solution.

Have big questions about managed IT services? We’re here to answer them! Here’s everything you need to know about this efficient, cost-effective solution.

Crash Course

There’s a lot to know about managed IT services–but don’t let that overwhelm you. Instead, sit back, relax, and brush up on the most important things to know about managed IT and what it can do for you.

The What

Managed IT Services is a solution that allows you to outsource your IT concerns, from the slightest password question to the most extensive security problem. After choosing an IT services provider, you’ll be able to personalize your IT approach without having to do any of the heavy lifting yourself. The best part is that managed IT can be scaled to fit your company’s needs–which means you only pay for what you’re going to use.

The Why

There are plenty of reasons to jump into managed IT services, including:
- less downtime,
- less wasted money,
- more efficient workflows,
- more reliable machines,
- improved security,
- better communication, and more.
The How

Managed IT works by analyzing your business from top to bottom–your strengths and weaknesses, your biggest security concerns, your employees’ needs, and more. From there, you work with your provider to identify solutions that will put your tech to work for you. On top of that, you’ll have 24/7 access to experts who can answer IT questions of all shapes and sizes, which means you’re never without support.

One step at a time, managed IT will help make your workflows smoother, stronger, and more reliable–and it all starts with the tech.

Ready to see managed IT services in action? Contact us today!
Scanning and Beyond: The Power of Multifunction
March 13, 2021 2:42 am Leave a Comment
Multifunction printers combine scan, copy, print, and fax capabilities–and in this case, the whole is much more than the sum of its parts! Read on to find out the true power of multifunction, and why it may be the answer to your scanning–and copying, printing, and faxing–needs.

Multifunction printers combine scan, copy, print, and fax capabilities–and in this case, the whole is much more than the sum of its parts! Read on to find out the true power of multifunction, and why it may be the answer to your scanning–and copying, printing, and faxing–needs.

The Best Way to Scan

If you’re looking for reliable, effective, and affordable scanning solutions, you have a few options–but none is quite as promising as a multifunction printer. By combining multiple features in one place, you create opportunities for efficiency and productivity that simply wouldn’t exist otherwise.

For example, with a multifunction printer, you could complete an entire job without once having to leave the machine. Of course, you also save money by having one device in place of four separate ones, meaning you only have to pay 1/4 of the maintenance, supplies, and repairs.

Let’s take a closer look at each function and why they work so well together!

Scanning

Scanning just got a whole lot more impressive. Multifunction printers are powerful, boasting all the latest tech–which means you get OCR, scan-to-email options, and more. Plus, by integrating scanning solutions into your business, you can cut down on paper use and take another step toward a digital workflow.

Copying

Need to make copies quickly and efficiently? A multifunction printer has you covered. Plus, with a variety of settings and features, you can limit waste while getting exactly what you need.

Printing

Printing is still a huge part of the business world, and when you combine it with other functions, it’s better than ever. Take your print jobs to the next level with a multifunction device.

Faxing

By adding fax capabilities to the mix, you cut out unnecessary steps in your workflow and give employees all the tools they need to succeed–right in one place.

Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Looking for other scanning solutions? Contact us today!
Lexmark Introduces New Cloud Fax models for the Lexmark GO Line Series of MFPs
March 4, 2021 1:38 am Comments Off on Lexmark Introduces New Cloud Fax models for the Lexmark GO Line Series of MFPs
LEXINGTON, Ky., March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the launch of new cloud fax models for the Lexmark GO Line series of multifunction products (MFPs). These new models combine optional cloud fax from etherFAX with standard Wi-Fi and Cloud Connectors to offer a cohesive solution that allows small businesses to “cut the cord” to the internet or analog fax lines.

“According to IDC1, 90 percent of fax users have already integrated or are evaluating integration of fax with other technologies or applications,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief commercial officer. “These new models enable Lexmark to deliver a user-friendly fax experience to our customers, providing a secure, end-to-end encrypted solution.”

The new models include five Lexmark GO Line series devices. Three color devices: the Lexmark MC3224i, MC3326i, and MC3426i; and two monochrome devices: the Lexmark MB2236i and MB3442i. These models offer customers a robust alternative to traditional analog fax by offering the option of an out-of-the-box cloud fax solution.

etherFAX Ready
Lexmark’s partnership with etherFAX enables these devices to deliver a secure cloud fax experience featuring:
- Simultaneous incoming fax call capability, so no busy signals
- Ultra-fast transmission of high-resolution images (600 dpi)
- Plug and play solution with easy configuration
- Identical user experience to analog fax
- Industry-leading security including: Military-grade end-to-end encryption, HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliance, and Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance
Customers can try out the etherFAX service for free for three months or 300 pages, whichever comes first, by simply registering here. After the trial, they can enroll in the monthly plan with etherFAX that best meets their needs.
Managed Print Reveals the Real Cost of Printing
February 26, 2021 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Do you know what the real cost of printing is? Do you know how to reveal it? Let managed print hold up a magnifying glass and help you see where your money is really going!

Do you know what the real cost of printing is? Do you know how to reveal it? Let managed print hold up a magnifying glass and help you see where your money is really going!

All Will Be Revealed

Uncontrolled printing has a reputation for being pricey. Even when you think you’re controlling costs, the chances are that some things are getting by you–and, unfortunately, those things have the power to wreck your budget. Before you can stop them, though, you need to be able to recognize them–and that’s where managed print comes in.

The Print Audit

Any good managed print process begins with a print audit, which is where you and your provider work together to analyze your print environment from top to bottom. You’ll get data on all kinds of things, from usage habits to supply costs. The point of a print audit is to take an honest look at your company and see where you can improve, but you’ll see the good stuff too–like positive habits, savvy security solutions, and more.

Here are a few “hidden costs” that will be revealed by a print audit:
- Staff costs
  
  Time is money, and the time your staff spends fighting with, fixing, and stressing out over the printers can really hurt your budget.
- Supply costs
  
  Supplies can be pricey, especially if you’re not aware of best buying practices. Falling victim to things like over-ordering can result in waste, while under-ordering causes workflow backups and inefficiency.
- Maintenance and repair costs
  
  Printers can’t be perfect forever. If you’re not taking steps to proactively manage maintenance and repair, even little “quick fixes” can start adding up.
The good news is that the print audit is only step one. Once all of the hidden costs have been revealed, managed print can help you address each issue one by one, implementing solutions and recommending tools that will get costs under control. In the end, you’ll end up saving all that money and more!

Worried about the hidden costs of printing? Want to learn more about managed print? Contact us today!
The Easiest Way to Choose a Multifunction Printer
February 19, 2021 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Need a multifunction printer that fits your needs, budget, and office space? Having trouble deciding between all the bells and whistles? Here’s the easiest way to choose the right multifunction printer for your business!

Need a multifunction printer that fits your needs, budget, and office space? Having trouble deciding between all the bells and whistles? Here’s the easiest way to choose the right multifunction printer for your business!

What to Consider

Printing isn’t on its way out just yet. In fact, smart companies are finding efficient, effective ways to print smarter and get the most out of their machines–which, often, means choosing a multifunction printer. These devices combine scan, print, copy, and fax capabilities, making them multitasking miracles–and along the way, they save time, money, and energy, too.

Before enjoying those benefits, though, you actually need to get the machine. Here’s what to consider before you buy!

Functionality

First things first: what should this printer do for you? Scanning, copying, faxing, and printing are all excellent functions, but remember that today’s multifunction printers can do a whole lot more. Be sure to research the bells and whistles, keeping your current and future goals in mind.

Effectiveness

Even the best printer is no good if it doesn’t fit into your company. Make sure you choose a machine that is effective for your unique wants, workflow, office space, and connectivity needs.

Price

Price is just one factor in the buying process, but it is, admittedly, a big one. Remember to consider the whole price of ownership, including supplies, maintenance, repairs, energy, and more.

Support

It’s no fun to think of your brand-new machine eventually failing, but even the strongest device will have a moment of weakness. Don’t overlook support options when choosing a multifunction printer; you want a device that can be with you for the long haul, not just until the first thing goes wrong.

Looking for that perfect multifunction printer? Contact us today for help choosing the device that’s right for you!
Sharp Expands Multifunction Printer Line with Four New Desktop Models
February 14, 2021 8:44 pm Comments Off on Sharp Expands Multifunction Printer Line with Four New Desktop Models
MONTVALE, N.J., Feb. 11, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today added four new monochrome devices to their business product line that include two desktop multifunction printers (MFPs) and two single-function desktop printers. All four models provide business-level security features, as well as a compact, durable design that delivers the reliability business users expect.

As incidents of cybercrime continue to grow, it is essential to have tools with proper security features in place. These new desktop models provide the security and ease of use today’s businesses need to help address these threats, such as IP address and protocol filtering, port control, Transport Layer Security (TLS) Encryption and more. Additionally, each of the new MFPs also offer out-of-the-box copy, print, scan and fax capabilities, as well as available Cloud Connect features. The MFP models also offer connectivity for mobile devices enabling users to easily manage workflow from PCs, smartphones and tablets. A user-friendly touchscreen display provides quick access to copy and scan settings, as well as a built-in user guide.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen a significant shift for many employees towards remote and hybrid work environments, which is likely to persist,” said Shane Coffey, vice president of product management at Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “These new models bring advanced integration and powerful productivity right into your workplace or home office, allowing teams to remain productive while helping to keep their information and documents secure.”

The new MX-B427W MFP and MX-B427PW printers offer output speeds up to 42 pages per minute (ppm), while the new MX-B467F MFP and MX-B467P printers offer output speeds up to 46 ppm. Whether in a desktop or console configuration, these new compact devices are a perfect fit for work from home environments, as well as for smaller businesses, such as pharmacies, doctors’ offices or restaurants.

These four new models will be available by the end of March 2021.
Konica Minolta Expands bizhub® i-Series Line with New A4 Monochrome Devices
8:39 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Expands bizhub® i-Series Line with New A4 Monochrome Devices
Ramsey, NJ, (February 10, 2021) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, is excited to announce the latest addition to its new generation of the bizhub A4 series, the bizhub 4750i and the 4050i monochrome MFPs and the bizhub 4700i monochrome single function printer (SFP), completing its A4 line.

The bizhub 4750i and 4050i replace the bizhub 4752 and 4052 and the bizhub 4700i replaces the 4702P. The 4750i has a speed of up to 50 ppm, 4050i is up to 42 ppm, and the 4700i SFP is up to 50 ppm, all faster than their color printer counterparts. All models offer reduced running costs over their predecessors, and the bizhub 4750i and 4050i have color scanning capabilities.

“Our updated A4 lineup features nearly identical user interface and software compatibility, consistent with our award-winning A3 products, with everything from the engines to the toner made by Konica Minolta. We are also pleased to be able to offer our clients a more affordable price and smaller footprint with the same functionality they expect from all our MFPs,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “With the addition of these new monochrome models, our A4 product line is now complete, providing the ease of use we have become known for in the industry with the choice of color or black and white.”

The ease and simplicity of the upgraded bizhub A4 MFPs feature a modernized user interface that is intuitive and efficient, offering the user clear and short steps for completing tasks. The models are equipped with standard 5 GB memory, a 256 GB solid state drive (SSD), PS, PCL & XPS Controller, Wireless Connectivity and Web Browser, Super G3 Fax (standard on the 4750i and optional on the 4050i), Standard Gigabit Ethernet, Duplex Unit, 80-sheet Dual Scan Document Feeder, Standard USB 2.0 (supports local printing), Toner (Yield: 20K), Imaging Unit and many other features.

The 4700i SFP offers 4 GB standard memory, includes PS, PCL & XPS controller, an Automatic Duplex Unit, 500-sheet Paper Cassette, Fast Ethernet, High-speed USB 2.0 Host, 20K Toner Cartridge, and a 200K Imaging Unit. All machines ship with generous, full-size 20K toner cartridges rather than “starter” cartridges. Security for the bizhub A4 series remains a high priority, with all of the standard features included to secure customers’ data, plus the optional Bitdefender virus scan on the MFP devices to ensure customers’ data is always protected.

Customers looking for a mixed fleet of A4 and A3 printers will experience the same award-winning user interface, functionality and platform offered by the entire bizhub i-Series line. Konica Minolta’s line of A3 printers recently received Keypoint Intelligence’s BLI 2021 A3 Line of The Year Award and BLI 2021-2023 Most Color Consistent A3 Brand Award.

The web browser is standard and the Konica Minolta MarketPlace is enabled and ready to use on the bizhub 4750i and 4050i. The Konica Minolta MarketPlace is a great source for cutting-edge technology, with new apps being developed to make the i-Series MFPs even more powerful in all the right categories. Scanning, printing, social networking, security, document management and cloud-based apps are all easy to access and designed to help increase productivity.

In addition, the i-Series MFPs support Konica Minolta’s new free Personalize app and Personalize with Follow-You Persona subscriptions, which offer users the ability to customize the display of their MFPs according to their individual preferences upon authenticating to the device. Functions and features as well as their language of choice can be matched to their own individual working behavior and routines, decreasing the time employees spend in front of their devices and increasing efficiency and operational cost savings.

Features include:
- 5 GB Memory pre-installed (4750i/4050i); 4 GB Memory pre-installed (4700i)
- 256 GB self-encrypting, high performance solid state drive, which is faster and more secure than conventional hard disk technology (4750i/4050i)
- “Floating” Panel with new UI that requires fewer clicks to complete common tasks; “Classic” UI can also be used
- Secure network integration, data encryption and advanced user authentication
- Mobile Connectivity to print anytime from anywhere
- Reduced energy consumption and costs
- Short warm-up time
- MarketPlace pre-installed, with three popular free apps included (4750i/4050i)
- Personalize with Follow-You Persona (optional on 4750i/4050i)
- Bitdefender Anti-Virus Scan (MFP option)
Konica Minolta has received many more industry accolades for its bizhub i-Series, including Keypoint Intelligence’s Buyers Lab (BLI) PaceSetter award 2020-2021 in Ease of Use: Enterprise Devices, the international Red Dot and Good Design awards for product design, ASTOR Homeland Security Awards and Better Buys Editor’s Choice awards.

The bizhub i-Series monochrome devices offer versatile configurations to meet customer requirements in terms of workflow, applications and budget. Learn more online about the bizhub 4750i, 4050i and 4700i.
Managed IT: Security for the Modern Age
February 10, 2021 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Digital security sounds pretty high-tech, but the truth is that even something so advanced can fall behind the times. It’s important to keep up with all the latest and greatest innovations in security–and, luckily, managed IT services are here to help.

Digital security sounds pretty high-tech, but the truth is that even something so advanced can fall behind the times. It’s important to keep up with all the latest and greatest innovations in security–and, luckily, managed IT services are here to help.

Why Managed IT?

There are a lot of security solutions out there–so why managed IT services?

The truth is that managed IT isn’t just about security, which is what gives it that powerful edge. Rather than focusing on your organization’s weaknesses, managed IT treats your company as a living, complex whole–an entity that grows and changes day by day.

By looking at the whole picture rather than just one brush-stroke, managed IT can help you create a foundation of security from day one, working it into every approach, tool, and solution, rather than having it be a nervous afterthought. With IT services, you can trust that your data and tech are in good hands from day one.

Opening the Tool Chest

Sound too good to be true? Here are a few tools managed IT uses to keep your security sleek, advanced, and up-to-date!
- Cloud security
  
  The cloud is a big part of everyday life, which means it’s also a big target. Leaving cloud security out of your overall security plan is a vulnerability–but the good news is that your managed IT provider is equipped with all kinds of tools and tricks to keep the peace in your little slice of the cloud.
- Smart firewalls
  
  Firewalls are great, but smart firewalls are even better. Managed IT can help you take your firewalls to the next level with automation and artificial intelligence that will actively seek out and protect against threats rather than idly deflecting trouble.
- Multi-factor authentication
  
  Authentication isn’t enough anymore; now, multi-factor authentication is the name of the game. Managed IT helps you make sure that your security is as tight as possible by requiring proof of identity in multiple ways before granting access to sensitive information.
Want to take your security into the modern age? Contact us today to learn more about managed IT services!
Who Can Benefit From Scanning?
February 3, 2021 7:00 am Leave a Comment
No two industries look exactly alike, and that’s what keeps the world turning. However, they do have one interesting thing in common: they can benefit from scanning–if not in all the same ways. Here’s a look at just a few industries where scanning has quickly become the MVP!

No two industries look exactly alike, and that’s what keeps the world turning. However, they do have one interesting thing in common: they can benefit from scanning–if not in all the same ways. Here’s a look at just a few industries where scanning has quickly become the MVP!

One Solution, Countless Industries

There aren’t many business solutions flexible enough to fit any industry. After all, there are so many industries with so many widely varying needs–how could one solution adapt to all of those different environments? Enter document scanning, the new best friend to industries of all shapes and sizes.

To prove that scanning can benefit just about anyone just about anywhere, here are some vastly different industries that have implemented this solution in their own unique ways!

Healthcare

Healthcare may be one of the most demanding and rigorous industries out there, with incredibly high stakes and all kinds of regulations to comply with–but scanning is still a great match.
- Scanning eliminates the need for physical storage of patient records, which saves space for patients, equipment, and personnel.
- Scanned documents are easier to organize, search through, and share with other medical professionals.
- Digital files can be more effectively secured.
Construction

Construction comes with blueprints, sketches, and other irregular documents. Luckily, scanning doesn’t break a sweat.
- Scanned documents are easily accessed from multiple locations, meaning construction experts don’t have to be tied to desks.
- Large documents or unique formats are more easily accessed in digital form than crammed in the passenger seat or dragged along to construction sites.
- Once scanned, files can be managed with version control so that construction experts always have up-to-date information.
Education

Education poses unique challenges, especially when it comes to the budget, but scanning can offer a lot of help.
- Student records can be stored long-term in digital format.
- Scanned records, transcripts, test scores, and more can be quickly and easily shared between educational organizations.
- It’s easier to manage and protect large amounts of student information when it’s all digitized and electronically secured.
Want to learn more about scanning in these industries and countless others? Contact us today!
How Managed Print Protects Your Budget
January 28, 2021 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Some business solutions can say they won’t hurt your budget, but others–the truly excellent ones–actually bolster it. Luckily, managed print falls distinctly within the latter category–and here’s how.

Some business solutions can say they won’t hurt your budget, but others–the truly excellent ones–actually bolster it. Luckily, managed print falls distinctly within the latter category–and here’s how.

The Power of Printing

Printing is often overlooked as a money-saving endeavor because, well, it seems like more of a money-wasting endeavor. Think of all the paper, ink, and energy you’re paying for, not to mention the price of the machines themselves! How could focusing on the printers really be best for your budget?

Believe it or not, managed print is so powerful specifically because it focuses on this often-overlooked element of your business. Managed print makes printing a good thing for your budget instead of a pain, all while introducing tools, solutions, and changes that will benefit your entire company–not just the printers.

Sound too good to be true? Here are a few ways managed print protects your budget!

#1: Customer service

Managed print doesn’t just offer 24/7 customer support; it also helps you and your business serve your own customers with more speed, accuracy, and flexibility. When you’re being treated well, it’s much easier to help others–which, in turn, keeps your budget happy thanks to a loyal, satisfied client base.

#2: Security

With managed print, it’s easy to identify your company’s security weaknesses and address them. In this way, managed print doesn’t just protect your data from potential disasters; it also protects your budget from having to pay for those disasters.

#3: Efficiency

At its core, managed print is about making your work life easier. By streamlining your workflows, optimizing your fleets, and introducing new communication and efficiency tools, managed print eliminates wasted time and money–which results in a healthy, happy budget.

Ready to see what managed print can do for your budget? Contact us today to get started!
Multifunction Printer Maintenance: Is It Worth It?
January 20, 2021 7:00 am Leave a Comment
When it comes to business tasks, time really is money–so it’s important to ask yourself if everything you’re doing is really “worth it” when there are other things demanding your attention. Today, we’re here to show you why the answer is always yes when it comes to multifunction printer maintenance!

When it comes to business tasks, time really is money–so it’s important to ask yourself if everything you’re doing is really “worth it” when there are other things demanding your attention. Today, we’re here to show you why the answer is always yes when it comes to multifunction printer maintenance!

The Value of TLC

One of the draws of multifunction printers is that they’re reliable, which means that they can do a whole lot of work with just a little help from you. However, even the hardest-working MFP needs some TLC–and the truth is that a little bit of maintenance goes a long way. You can quickly and easily create a schedule for routine maintenance tasks; that way, printer care becomes a habit, and your workflows and budgets will thank you.

Here are just a few reasons why printer maintenance will always be worth it!

#1: Longevity

Multifunction printers are powerhouses, but even they don’t last forever. The good news is that, with regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your printer and protect your investment for years to come.

#2: Reliability

Getting into the habit of maintaining your printer can help you catch little issues before they become big issues. Well-cared-for machines are more reliable and perform better on average, and they create less downtime, too.

#3: Efficiency

At the end of the day, you want a machine that does what it’s supposed to do–and an MFP can promise that just as long as you offer a little help. Regular maintenance keeps multifunction printers operating at full capacity, which means no frustrating performance issues, no glitches, no jams, and no other errors that could waste time, money, and energy.

Looking for a multifunction printer? Interested in tips for MFP maintenance? Contact us today for all the help you need!
Konica Minolta Wins 12 BLI Awards from Keypoint Intelligence for its bizhub i-Series, Including ‘A3 Line of the Year’
January 14, 2021 1:43 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Wins 12 BLI Awards from Keypoint Intelligence for its bizhub i-Series, Including ‘A3 Line of the Year’
Ramsey, NJ (January 13, 2021) – Konica Minolta is proud to announce it has received 12 Buyers Lab (BLI) Awards from Keypoint Intelligence, the world’s leading and independent evaluator of document imaging hardware, software and services. This is an acknowledgment of the capabilities of Konica Minolta’s multi-functional peripheral devices (MFPs) with the leading industry awards. All devices are from Konica Minolta’s new bizhub i-Series, underlining the successful relaunch of the company’s MFP range. In addition to 10 BLI 2021 Pick Awards for its bizhub A3 MFPs, Konica Minolta secured the BLI 2021 A3 Line of The Year Award. Based on long-term comprehensive testing, Konica Minolta was further acknowledged with the BLI 2021-2023 Most Color Consistent A3 Brand Award.

Companies demand consistent quality, reliability and the highest levels of usability from their office printers – and it is in exactly these areas that Konica Minolta’s A3 bizhub i-Series range impressed the testers from Keypoint Intelligence. Twelve Konica Minolta bizhub A3 MPFs received the Highly Recommended overall rating for outstanding performance in Keypoint Intelligence lab testing. Ten of those models earned Pick Awards in their respective segments: bizhub C250i, C300i, C450i, C550i, C650i, 300i, 360i, 450i, 550i and 750i. This earned Konica Minolta additionally the ‘BLI 2021 A3 Line of the Year’ award.

“Thank you to Keypoint Intelligence for this honor. We are tremendously proud to be recognized for the best A3 product line in the market,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. “As an organization that has expanded into many different areas, we have remained true to this industry and driving our core business by continuing to incorporate advanced technology and functionality to improve customer experience. Winning BLI’s 2021 A3 Line of the Year Award is a testament to our unwavering dedication.”

This underlying philosophy in product design is the basis for the high usability of the devices and offers a high degree of end-to-end ease of use. For example: The large control panels provide easy access to all basic settings and touch navigation for a pleasant and effective user experience. The panel can be fully customized with all tools and apps a specific user most frequently needs. Further, the preinstalled MarketPlace on all devices gives access to a wide range of cloud offerings.

The BLI 2021-2023 Most Color Consistent A3 Brand further shows that Konica Minolta’s MFPs are able to deliver repeatable high-quality printing results: For this award, BLI analyzed color consistency for well over 20 years and the last five years of results have been included in this evaluation. Technicians print IT8 color charts at specific test points throughout a device’s reliability test, which are then measured using Xrite i1Profiler software together with the i1Pro2 spectrophotometer/iO table combination.
Managed IT: Is In-House IT Really Your Friend?
January 13, 2021 6:42 pm Leave a Comment
We’ve all had a “fake friend” or two, but you probably don’t expect one to be lurking right inside your business. Today, we’ll take a look at in-house IT and decide whether you can count on it when the going gets tough, or if you’d be better off with a friend like managed IT services.

The Truth

Many companies are loyal to the idea of in-house IT because it’s safe, familiar, and–at least at first glance–passably efficient. However, the truth is that in-house IT might not really be your friend. Let’s look at the facts!

#1: It’s expensive.

In-house IT means you’re paying full-time employees–plus you’re directly responsible for repairs, maintenance, supplies, and more.

#2: It’s frustrating.

As great as your in-house tech team might be, the chances are that they don’t have all the answers–and probably not the right tools, either.

#3: It’s not all that efficient.

Sure, in-house IT masquerades as an efficient solution because you’re doing it yourself, but the truth is that it wastes time, money, and energy. On top of that, you might be missing out on all kinds of great tech solutions, not to mention some pretty important advances in security.

The good news is that, if you’re sick of in-house IT being a “fake friend” to your business, you have another option: managed IT services. By outsourcing your IT needs, you’ll have a tech partner you can count on–not to mention all the answers, resources, and support you could ever hope for, without breaking the bank.

Managed IT allows you to put experts on the job, which, in turn, frees you up to take care of your own tasks and responsibilities–all with the peace of mind that comes from reliable, secure tech.

Ready to call it quits on in-house IT and switch to managed IT services? We’re here to help! Contact us today to get started!
Sharp Enhances Multifunction Printer Lineup with Two New High-Volume Color Models
January 11, 2021 1:46 am Comments Off on Sharp Enhances Multifunction Printer Lineup with Two New High-Volume Color Models
MONTVALE, N.J., Dec. 8, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today introduced two high-speed color document systems designed for high-volume environments. The new MX-7081 and MX-8081 models offer key features needed for businesses today, including advanced cloud services, multi-layered security and available touchless operation.

These new models feature Sharp’s easy-to-use touchscreen display and support MFP Voice with Amazon Alexa, which allows users to perform basic copy and scan operations through simple voice commands without having to touch the device. Both models also support touchless operation with Synappx™ Go, a mobile application from Sharp that enables users to print, copy, scan and release print jobs from their mobile device.

“We are proud to strengthen our leading MFP technology by offering the best in productivity features as well as addressing the health and safety concerns of businesses today,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging & Information Company of America. “These new color document systems offer outstanding performance and features that highlight Sharp’s continued innovation in this space.”

The MX-7081 prints at speeds up to 70 pages per minute (ppm) in color and 75 ppm in black and white, while the MX-8081 prints at speeds up to 80 ppm in both color and black and white. These models also offer increased productivity with the new 300-sheet duplex single pass feeder that scans up to 240 images per minute and provides the ability to feed up to 150 business cards.

The models offer the optional MX-PE15 Fiery® Print Server, which is perfect for demanding business environments that require increased processing power, precision color control and effective job management. Additional award-winning features include leading-edge security and an Embedded Print Engine that help ensure greater PDF print performance and rendering accuracy. The new models also offer easy access to popular cloud applications, including Microsoft® OneDrive® for Business, SharePoint® Online, Box and Google Drive™, with the Sharp Cloud Connect feature. New extended-life supplies help reduce the cost per page and minimize service visits, while also improving maintenance schedules. The MX-7081 and MX-8081 replace the MX-6580N and MX-7580N in the current product lineup.

The MX-7081 and MX-8081 are available immediately through Sharp’s nationwide network of dealers and Sharp Business Systems branches.
Scanning Slip-Ups: What Not to Scan
January 6, 2021 7:00 am Leave a Comment
In the digital age of screenshots, copy-paste options, and scanning, the rules about what can be duplicated start to get a little blurry. Here are a few slip-ups to avoid when it comes to scanning!

Staying Savvy

While a document scanning mistake might not seem like such a big deal in a world where security breaches, network failures, and computer crashes exist, the truth is that you get into some sensitive legal territory when you set out to scan something. Certain things can be duplicated safely and legally, but other things, not so much. While it can be tricky to know what to scan and what not to scan, there are a few simple guidelines that can help you out.

Here are some “scanning slip-ups” to avoid in your workplace!

#1: Scanning copyrighted material

If you’re scanning something to avoid buying another copy or purchasing a usage license, you’ve stepped foot into complicated territory. It’s better to turn back so that your company doesn’t end up facing fines–or even a lawsuit. However, keep in mind that some copyrighted material can be used for educational purposes, provided that your use falls within the description of “educational purposes” and the owner of the copyright is allowing their material to be used in that way.

#2: Scanning cash

Non-cash money can be scanned–for example, checks. However, cash doesn’t belong anywhere near a scanner, and it can get you into a lot of trouble.

#3: Scanning government ID

While you’re safe to scan your personal ID, you should shut the scanner when it comes to government or military ID. As it turns out, it’s actually illegal to duplicate this type of identification–so you’re better off sticking to driver’s licenses and passports.

Looking for more scanning wisdom? Want to jump into scanning? Contact us today to get started!
Konica Minolta Receives Four BLI Awards from Keypoint Intelligence
December 31, 2020 1:38 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Receives Four BLI Awards from Keypoint Intelligence
Ramsey, NJ (December 22, 2020) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce it has received four prestigious Buyers Lab Awards from Keypoint Intelligence, the world’s leading independent evaluator for document imaging software, hardware and services.

“As we continue our focus on using innovation and technology to bring new solutions to market to support our clients’ businesses, accolades such as these are an important part of the process,” said Sam Errigo, Executive Vice President, Sales and Business Development, Konica Minolta. “Keypoint Intelligence is a valuable partner on whom we rely to help evaluate our solutions, provide insights on where we stand in the market and assure we are investing in the right areas. We are extremely proud of these recognitions.”

Recent awards bestowed on Konica Minolta include:

BLI PaceSetter Award in Healthcare

Konica Minolta received a BLI PaceSetter 2021-2022 in Healthcare: Visionary Leader from Keypoint Intelligence. Based on research conducted in the North American market, the award recognized document imaging OEMs that have proven they offer the hardware and software portfolios, professional services, support, and thought leadership to best serve healthcare customers. Konica Minolta was praised for going well beyond document imaging devices and software to provide critical workflow solutions for hospitals and group practices across the country. Through its All Covered IT services division, the company aids with HIPAA/HITECH compliance, electronic health records systems implementation and support, healthcare application development, and more, while its Return to Work program is designed to help curb the spread of COVID-19 as employees get back to the office.

BLI 2021 Pick and Outstanding Achievement Awards

Konica Minolta received two BLI 2021 Pick and Outstanding Achievement Awards in the Document Imaging Software category. These coveted honors recognize the most impressive solutions evaluated by Keypoint Intelligence during the previous 12-month test cycle.
- Outstanding Cost Accounting & Recovery Solution: Konica Minolta Dispatcher Paragon
  - Konica Minolta Dispatcher Paragon provides businesses with all the tools they need to track, control, visualize, reduce, and recuperate print, scan, copy and fax costs across their entire fleet – even with mixed fleets. Print rules, budgets and quotas help businesses curb spending, while a customizable pricing structures and built-in payment system makes it easy to charge for print/scan/copy/fax usage.
- Outstanding Achievement in Innovation: Return to Work
  - Konica Minolta’s Return to Work program is innovation defined. The solution comes with everything businesses need to return to and maintain a safe work environment for all employees. The solution prevents the spread of disease by conducting web-based employee health assessments and using thermal cameras to take an employee’s temperature. The solution also supports contract tracing and incident management tools.
BLI 2021-2022 PaceSetter in Hybrid Workplace

Konica Minolta received a BLI 2021-2022 PaceSetter in Hybrid Workplace from Keypoint Intelligence. Through research in the North American market, BLI recognized document imaging OEMs that have the most forward-looking products, services, and initiatives when it comes to helping customers with their in-office, at-home and hybrid workforce needs. Konica Minolta stood out for its quick pivot to solutions addressing new customer needs as a result of the pandemic, including technology and services for employees working remotely and those returning to the office. Its unique Return to Work program delivers a system that encompasses self-reporting, on-site temperature checks and employee tracking to help protect the office-based workforce. The Remote Work package, delivered through All Covered, combines equipment such as laptops, wireless headsets, printers and a service desk to allow secure access to business content, while the Home Assurance package adds another level of security and capabilities through fully managed VPN connectivity and multi-layered security best practices.

Keypoint Intelligence’s awards give special recognition to manufacturers and products that perform above their peers in its exhaustive lab tests. Read more online.
What Managed Print Isn’t
December 30, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
As helpful as it is to look up all the details about a certain solution, sometimes it’s clearer and more effective to start with what it’s not. Today we’ll take a look at managed print for what it doesn’t offer, doesn’t do, and doesn’t provide to your company.

Clearing Things Up

Because managed print is a term that refers to a huge number of tools, solutions, tips, and tricks, it can be easy to get the wrong idea about its reputation. The good news is that most of the buzz around managed print is positive, so there are no “big bad rumors” to dispel; what’s most important is learning what you can and can’t expect from managed print so that you can decide if it’s a good fit for your company (and so that you can implement it as effectively as possible).

Here’s what to know about managed print!

#1: It isn’t a delivery service.

You might think that managed print is just about delivering ink, toner, and paper to keep your fleet functioning as efficiently as possible. Consumables are a big part of managed print, but they’re not the only thing this solution can help with. In fact, managed print helps you understand how you use consumables, choose more effective brands for your needs and machines, and save money by organizing orders–on top of a whole lot more, of course.

#2: It isn’t just about printing.

Sure, “print” is right there in the name–but managed print goes far beyond your printer fleet. By streamlining workflows, improving communication, and minimizing waste, managed print actually makes waves throughout your company.

#3: It’s more than a business relationship.

When you choose a managed print provider, you’re actually choosing a partner. Providers should be with you every step of the way, working to help you find creative solutions and remain flexible even in the face of complex challenges.

Want to learn more about what managed print is (and isn’t)? Looking for a managed print partner? Contact us today to get started!
Should You Upgrade Your Multifunction Printer?
December 23, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Upgrades help keep your printer fleet healthy, powerful, and reliable–but they shouldn’t have to break the bank to do it. Here’s everything you need to know about multifunction printer upgrades and whether they’re worth it!

Shiny and New

You might think that your existing multifunction printers are doing a good job–and if that’s the case, why upgrade them? After all, upgrades can be pricey, and they tend to come with learning curves and frustration if the new machine isn’t introduced smoothly.

Here are a few reasons why upgrades are good news for your company:
- security, since new machines, have more built-in tools and solutions to protect your data;
- efficiency, including all the latest functions and features that could take your business to the next level;
- environmental friendliness, because new machines tend to be more effective at using energy and consumables ;
- and reliability, especially if your older machines are starting to cause trouble.
So, we know that upgrades can be a great call–but is now the right time? Here are some things to consider:

Remote work

With so many employees at home with their work phones and laptops, solutions for remote workers are more important than ever. An upgraded multifunction printer can help keep your teams communicating and connected, no matter where they are.

Budget challenges

You don’t have to jump straight into an upgrade. Instead, you can budget for one over time–which, in turn, helps you navigate the uncertainty of the financial world while still getting the new multifunction printer you need.

Security

Security threats are getting smarter by the second–which means your printers need to do the same. Upgraded multifunction printers are far better at protecting your company, your data, your employees, and your customers from threats–both online and off.

So, is it time for a shiny new multifunction printer? Contact us today for help upgrading your fleet!
Why Trust Managed IT?
December 16, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Companies of all shapes and sizes tend to have one thing in common: they trust themselves more than third parties. That’s a good way to look at lots of things, but it’s not necessarily the best approach when it comes to tools and solutions like IT Services. Of course, you don’t have to take anyone’s word for it; read the facts and decide for yourself whether you should trust managed IT services!

A Partner in Tech

At first glance, it might seem easier to handle your own IT issues. After all, no one knows your company better than you do–and if you have your own employees troubleshooting your tech, you’ll always be “in the loop.”

The truth, though, is that managed IT services is just like having a partner in technology. They won’t take control away from you, make decisions without you, or try to undermine your goals; instead, they’ll learn your company inside and out before they so much as recommend a tool–and then they’ll consult you every step of the way. What’s even better is that, once you know the drill, you’ll be able to trust your provider to handle the day-to-day stuff, like software updates and routine security checks.

Are Providers Reliable?

Here are a few things that make the difference between a decent provider and a trustworthy provider!
- They’ll communicate.
Reliable providers prove their worth by staying in touch. They don’t just want to breeze through your company and then never show back up; they want to understand your workflows, goals, and machines from top to bottom–that way, they can provide the best solutions and recommendations.
- They’re knowledgeable.
Managed IT services is all about letting someone else do the work for you. A reliable provider will have experts from multiple tech fields, which means you’ll have access to an ever-growing wealth of knowledge.
- They’re available 24/7.
You can’t trust a partner who’s never there! Good managed IT providers will be available 24/7 for the big stuff–and the little stuff, too.

Are you on the fence about managed IT services? Want to find a reliable, knowledgeable provider? Contact us today!
How Do Your Clients Benefit From Scanning?
December 9, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
If you’re interested in adding scanning solutions to your company’s repertoire, you’ve probably read a few things about all the benefits you’re likely to see. However, there’s one perspective that often gets overlooked: your clients’. Let’s find out how scanning benefits you and your customers!

Happy Companies, Happy Clients

Document scanning is simple, affordable, and powerful. Even better, it comes with a long list of benefits for your company–a list so long, in fact, that it’s best to focus on the highlights, like:
- stronger security,
- improved efficiency,
- streamlined workflows,
- better organization,
- and cost savings.
Notice that these benefits have one thing in common: they’re all about you! It’s great that scanning does so many things for your business, but sometimes it’s helpful to look at things from a customer’s perspective.

Here are a few ways your clients will benefit from scanning!

1. Better prices

Scanning helps your company save money on things like document storage, which, in turn, means you can offer more competitive prices for your clients. They’ll appreciate the savings on their end, and you’ll appreciate the savings on yours.

2. Better service

Happy clients are loyal clients! Scanning helps your employees find information faster, respond to issues more efficiently, and create a positive experience every time a customer dials your number or sends you an e-mail.

3. Better understanding

Clients like to know that you’re actively working to understand their needs and goals. By going digital, you’re showing them that you can keep up with a quickly-changing world–not to mention, you’re providing them with a sleek, modern experience.

Want to learn more about scanning and how it benefits you and your customers? Contact us today!
Sharp Enhances Multifunction Printer Lineup with Two New High-Volume Color Models
1:54 am Comments Off on Sharp Enhances Multifunction Printer Lineup with Two New High-Volume Color Models
MONTVALE, N.J., Dec. 8, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today introduced two high-speed color document systems designed for high-volume environments. The new MX-7081 and MX-8081 models offer key features needed for businesses today, including advanced cloud services, multi-layered security and available touchless operation.

These new models feature Sharp’s easy-to-use touchscreen display and support MFP Voice with Amazon Alexa, which allows users to perform basic copy and scan operations through simple voice commands without having to touch the device. Both models also support touchless operation with Synappx™ Go, a mobile application from Sharp that enables users to print, copy, scan and release print jobs from their mobile device.

“We are proud to strengthen our leading MFP technology by offering the best in productivity features as well as addressing the health and safety concerns of businesses today,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging & Information Company of America. “These new color document systems offer outstanding performance and features that highlight Sharp’s continued innovation in this space.”

The MX-7081 prints at speeds up to 70 pages per minute (ppm) in color and 75 ppm in black and white, while the MX-8081 prints at speeds up to 80 ppm in both color and black and white. These models also offer increased productivity with the new 300-sheet duplex single pass feeder that scans up to 240 images per minute and provides the ability to feed up to 150 business cards.

The models offer the optional MX-PE15 Fiery® Print Server, which is perfect for demanding business environments that require increased processing power, precision color control and effective job management. Additional award-winning features include leading-edge security and an Embedded Print Engine that help ensure greater PDF print performance and rendering accuracy. The new models also offer easy access to popular cloud applications, including Microsoft® OneDrive® for Business, SharePoint® Online, Box and Google Drive™, with the Sharp Cloud Connect feature. New extended-life supplies help reduce the cost per page and minimize service visits, while also improving maintenance schedules. The MX-7081 and MX-8081 replace the MX-6580N and MX-7580N in the current product lineup.

The MX-7081 and MX-8081 are available immediately through Sharp’s nationwide network of dealers and Sharp Business Systems branches.
Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress C4080 Series
December 4, 2020 1:51 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress C4080 Series
Ramsey, NJ, (December 1, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, is pleased to introduce a new line of versatile color digital production presses, the AccurioPress C4080 Series. This high-speed digital press offers robust and user-friendly production and is a perfect fit for businesses looking to expand their production capabilities with advanced automation and ease of use for various applications.

“Our launch of the C4080 Series is yet another important step in enhancing our line of color production printers, providing an easy transition into digital printing with inline finishing options allowing prints to be boxed and shipped right off the press,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning. “The advanced automation, high quality and productivity and myriad finishing options these presses offer translate into endless opportunities for printers to expand into new markets and develop new revenue streams.”

The AccurioPress C4080 is an all-in-one print factory that will help enable business growth through intelligent automation, outstanding image quality and print application diversity. The C4080 Series replaces the C3080 Series, an entry-level, light production press debuted in March 2018. The C4080 Series also includes the AccurioPress C4070 and AccurioPrint C4065, a lighter version of the C4080 that can bridge the gap between an office and production print with the same image quality at a more affordable price point.

Advanced Automation

The AccurioPress C4080 Series brings automation to a new level with the TU-510 Inline Trimmer Unit, which produces fully-finished output with inline slitting and trimming and additional options for inline creasing (valley and mountain crease), business cards, postcard cutting and perforation (vertical and horizontal). Plus, the TU-510 has an option to deliver fully trimmed and creased long sheets of up to 51″ to the output tray.

New to the C4080 Series is the IM-101 external media detection sensor, an optional sensor for measuring and identifying media, ensuring the correct media settings are selected no matter the operator’s skill. The TU-510, IM-101, and the IQ-501, a fully automated, closed-loop quality management tool, provide customers with the ability to produce fully-finished, high-quality, ready to be boxed output quickly and easily without skilled operators — meaning increased uptime, productivity, quality, and profit.

Image Quality and Media Flexibility

The AccurioPress C4080 provides outstanding image quality with 3600 (equivalent) x2400 dpi resolution and prints duplex sheets up to 34”. Envelopes can be printed with the standard fuser at half speed, or full speed with an optional dedicated envelope fuser. The IQ-501 Intelligent Quality Optimizer also comes into play here, performing automatic density correction and front-to-back registration prior to printing. Media versatility up to 360 gsm will provide a wide portfolio of paper choices and print applications.

Incredible Productivity and Versatility

The AccurioPress C4080/C4070 and AccurioPrint C4065 digital press print at 80/70/65 ppm and offer the flexibility of 2-sided printing on sheets up to 34” long, allowing the capability of producing an 8-panel, letter-size brochure. The AccurioPress C4080 expands application offerings such as envelope printing without the need for an additional fuser. Experience unmatched productivity and versatility with the AccurioPress C4080/C4070 various finishing options, including booklets, perfect bound, punching, stapling, inline trimming, and stacking to meet customers’ needs and tap into new revenue streams.

New Accessories

Highly configurable accessories on the C4080 provide added value by allowing a business to build the press in a way that compliments their workflow. New accessories include:
- TU-510 Versatile Trimmer Unit – an inline, four-edge trimmer, creaser and perforator that allows full bleed, support for long sheets and a dedicated business card cutting option.
- LS-507 Large Stacker – supports long sheet bypass and offers operators the advantage of offloading while the machine is still running, another new benefit added to Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress expanded line.
- IM-101 Intelligent Media Sensor – automatically identifies and registers paper.
Visit Konica Minolta online to learn more about the AccurioPress C4080.
Lexmark Releases Markvision Enterprise 4.0 Printer Fleet Management Solution
12:44 am Comments Off on Lexmark Releases Markvision Enterprise 4.0 Printer Fleet Management Solution
LEXINGTON, Ky., Dec. 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the launch of a significant upgrade to its Markvision Enterprise (MVE) printer fleet management solution. MVE 4.0 software, available today at no cost to Lexmark customers, includes universal configuration which allows users to quickly and easily create configurations that apply to all Lexmark models*, scalable to thousands of networked print and multi-function devices.

“Enterprise customers are looking for ways to enhance security while reducing the burden on IT staff. We upgraded Markvision Enterprise fleet management with those needs in mind,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief commercial officer. “MVE 4.0 includes improvements in usability and security, making it easier to manage your entire fleet of network printers and multifunction devices. The advanced yet easy-to-use toolset makes it easier than ever to configure both device settings and update security policies all in a single tool.”

A key component of Lexmark’s “Secure by Design” approach to security and data protection, MVE 4.0 is designed to ensure optimum protection for every device on the network. The new universal configuration feature allows users to create a single configuration and apply it to any Lexmark model, even legacy models*, to reduce initial setup and ongoing maintenance of the configurations. Users can create a base security configuration and apply it to any new device that appears on the network without specifying which models might be added.

MVE 4.0 simplifies or eliminates manual IT tasks such as updating firmware, configuring device settings and applying security certificates. For organizations looking for greater visibility and accountability, MVE 4.0 also delivers targeted reporting on device statistics, taking the guesswork out of the activity on enterprise devices.

“We are pleased to offer MVE 4.0 to Lexmark customers,” Saladin added. “This user-friendly fleet management solution makes it easy to improve security compliance across the enterprise and reduces the burden on IT staff.”

Lexmark customers may download MVE 4.0 here.
3 Reasons You Need Document Scanning
November 25, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
You’ve probably heard a lot of business solutions claiming that you “need” them–but is that ever really true? Well, when it comes to document scanning, it certainly is true–and today, we’ll find out why.

An Important Choice

When you look at document scanning solutions, you’re not making a throwaway decision that you’ll have forgotten about by lunch. No–what you’re actually facing is an important choice that could influence the future of your company’s communication, efficiency, organization, and budget.

Sound like a lot of pressure? Not to worry–it’s easier than you might think to make this big choice. All you need to do is consider the three reasons you need document scanning.

Reason #1: Your team deserves solid solutions.

You’ve probably got a great team–but at the end of the day, they’re only as good as the solutions you choose for them. Scanning helps them reach their full potential, not by changing what they can do, but by giving them tools–like digital documents and unified document receptacles–to make the most of their talents.

Reason #2: Security is more important than ever.

With security threats evolving by the day, it’s critical to keep your documents safe and sound. Digital documents can easily be organized, stored, and protected in multiple ways so that safety never interferes with efficiency–not to mention paper files come with their own weaknesses, like being vulnerable to floods and fires.

Reason #3: Nobody likes wasted time.

Let’s face it: paper files are frustrating. How much time have you wasted sorting them, searching through them, and shredding them when you’re done? Scanning allows you to eliminate all of that wasted time by creating organized, easy-to-use digital documents that can be whatever you need them to be.

So, do you need document scanning? Contact us today to see what this solution can do for you!
Sharp Announces Synappx™ WorkSpaces for Smarter Office Analytics and Insights
November 22, 2020 11:16 pm Comments Off on Sharp Announces Synappx™ WorkSpaces for Smarter Office Analytics and Insights
MONTVALE, N.J., Nov. 19, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) today launched Synappx™ WorkSpaces, the latest in its line of Synappx smart office solutions that allows organizations to streamline technology operations while improving the analytics needed to enhance efficiency.

Synappx WorkSpaces enhances the functionality of the Windows collaboration display (WCD) from Sharp by leveraging the device’s data collection modules into an easy to use dashboard to provide organizations with the critical data and analytics needed to make informed decisions about their WCD technology and workspace productivity investments.

These insights are a key driver for implementing work transformation initiatives, according to IDC’s recent “Future of Work Survey.” Synappx Workspaces helps organizations meet their productivity goals by providing data on whether employees are using Windows collaboration displays, tracking who is booking a shared workspace and determining if meetings are taking place as scheduled. In addition, this type of analytical data is becoming increasingly valuable as many businesses begin assessing how to return to the office once the COVID-19 pandemic subsides and ensure they do so with increased employee productivity.

“Our evolving workplace environment requires deeper analytics to inform smarter organizations, especially as we make the move from a home-based to a more hybrid workforce,” said Vince Jannelli, Associate VP, Software Product Management at Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Synappx WorkSpaces provides the insights needed to determine the success of collaboration technology, helping organizations invest smarter, positively impact productivity and promote employee satisfaction.”

Designed to address common workspace challenges for businesses of any size, Synappx WorkSpaces monitors ambient conditions, such as temperature changes and attendee impact on the meeting environment. Its analytics provide alert notifications about factors that can impact employee productivity, such as temperature, humidity and air quality. It does this by combining data collected by the IoT sensor hub on the Windows collaboration display with data from Microsoft 365.

Sharp previewed Synappx WorkSpaces at this year’s virtual InfoComm 2020 conference, taking home Best of Show honors from Sound & Video Contractor.

For more information, including technical specifications, please visit the main Synappx page.
Is Your Multifunction Printer’s Hard Drive at Risk?
November 18, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
There’s so much to know when it comes to printer security that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, there’s one simple thing you can do that will make a huge difference–but many companies don’t realize it. Read on to find out why something as small as your multifunction printer’s hard drive can be key to your security procedures!

Hard Drives in Peril

Your multifunction printer is on your side. Its job is to work hard while making your life easier–and one of the ways it does that is by saving and storing data about what you print. Now, this may sound nefarious, but the truth is that multifunction printers do this in order to process information quickly and efficiently, not to take down your business from the inside. However, that doesn’t mean someone else isn’t trying to do just that. Hackers will often target unprotected printers, hoping to access the gold mine of a neglected hard drive overflowing with sensitive information.

Get Tech Savvy

Don’t rush to crush that hard drive! Here are a few safe and savvy ways to protect your hard drives without impacting printer performance.

Overwrite.

If you’re returning a leased multifunction printer, it’s important to overwrite or “flush” the hard drive before it leaves your care. Don’t send sensitive data out the door!

Encrypt.

Encryption protects what’s on your hard drive just in case a hacker gains access. It makes data unreadable to anyone who isn’t meant to have it, which is excellent news for your printer security.

Plan.

There are three types of hard drive management you can take advantage of:
- immediate, which automatically overwrites hard drive data;
- regular, which is scheduled just like printer maintenance and clears your hard drive completely,
- and complete, which empties your hard drive at the snap of your fingers.
It’s best to combine these approaches to complete hard drive protection.

Want to learn more multifunction printer tips and security tricks? Contact us today to get started!
Konica Minolta’s bizhub® i-Series Honored with Two Better Buys Editor’s Choice Awards
November 14, 2020 10:08 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta’s bizhub® i-Series Honored with Two Better Buys Editor’s Choice Awards
Ramsey, NJ, (November 12, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce its bizhub® 650i Series has earned Better Buys Editor’s Choice Award in Q4 2020 for its black-and-white multifunctional printers (MFP) category. The devices were launched in September as part of an expansion of the bizhub i-Series line. The bizhub portfolio was also recognized earlier this year when the new bizhub C650i Series earned Better Buys Editor’s Choice Award in Q2 2020 for its high-volume machines category.

Better Buys evaluates products both individually and compares them against the competition, on a range of criteria. This includes unique features, value to the customer and pricing. Konica Minolta’s bizhub C650i and 650i series were part of only a handful of vendors chosen for these honors.

The bizhub i-Series product line is a part of Konica Minolta’s next-generation multifunctional device portfolio designed to empower digital workflows. These MFP models represent a new paradigm for how multifunctional devices meet the needs of businesses by serving as a secure, smart technology hub to augment office connectivity. All models boast the same fresh, contemporary exterior design, with great usability features, which Konica Minolta has become known for in the industry.

“The launch of the monochrome models completed our bizhub i-Series product line and allow us to provide the ease of use we have become known for in the industry, with the choice of color or black and white,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “As the world of work and our customers and ends users’ needs continue to change, our bizhub multifunctional devices offer versatile and tailored solutions for any type of business and organization, ensuring minimal disruption to productivity and efficiency.”

“Konica Minolta continues to bring innovative features that help the workplace collaborate better and improve productivity,” said Melissa Pardo-Bunte, Editor, Better Buys. “The bizhub C650i and 650i monochrome models bring robust features, such as fast engine speed, flexible paper-handling and a customizable touchscreen interface.”

Visit Better Buys’ website to see the full reviews of the bizhub C650i i-Series and 650i i-Series.
Managed IT: Ask Your Provider About Security
November 11, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Managed IT services should be all about security, but the truth is that not all providers are created equal in this regard. Here are a few questions to ask your provider to make sure that your company, your data, and your devices are as safe as possible!

What to Ask

If you have a good relationship with your managed IT services provider, it should be easy to ask about security. If not, though, you might be wondering how to decide whether or not your provider is doing enough to protect you–and the answer is simple: ask questions. It’s important to understand the choices being made for your company and the steps being taken to defend your data.

Here are a few questions to get you started!

“Are you keeping up with the latest threats?”

One of the most important steps a managed IT provider can take is to educate themselves about what they’re up against. Digital threats are constantly advancing, and if your provider wants to keep you safe, they should be able to tell you what’s new in the world of scams, malware, and online threats.

“Is our network really being monitored 24/7?”

24/7 monitoring is a great way to catch any irregularities in your network that might suggest a breach. However, if your provider isn’t offering this or promised it but isn’t being consistent, you could have a problem.

“Do we have safety nets in place?”

Managed IT services are all about giving you peace of mind, so there should always be security “safety nets” in place–for example, data backups and encryption, which would protect you in case of a breach.

Concerned about security? Looking for an IT services provider who can protect what matters? Contact us today!
Managed Print in the Education System
November 4, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
There are few things more important than a good education for kids, and there are few things more important than good solutions for schools. Believe it or not, there’s one thing that can be an answer to both: managed print!

Smart Printing

At first glance, managed print may seem like a solution for corporations, as if it belongs somewhere with cubicles and tiny potted plants on each desk–but that’s not the case.

Managed print is great for industries of all shapes and sizes, meaning that it’s just as comfortable in cubicles as it is in the classroom. That’s because managed print is all about customization, meaning that every detail, solution, and tool will be defined by a school’s unique needs and challenges.

How it Works

Sound too good to be true? Here are a few ways managed print adapts to each school and helps make education a breeze!
- Cost
Schools are often operating on a tight budget, and printing without management or control can really hurt that bottom line. Managed print helps schools understand where their money is going and why, and then it helps find ways to spend that money more effectively–all without cutting corners.
- Color
Creativity shouldn’t be limited just because resources are. Managed print makes it easier to understand when color printing is cost-effective and when it isn’t–that way, schools can plan projects without worrying about print problems.
- Carbon footprint
Teaching by example is important, especially when it comes to environmental friendliness. With managed print, schools can set a good example for their students by finding cost-effective, savvy ways to go green with their printers, print habits, and consumables like toner and paper.

Want to learn more about managed print in and out of the classroom? Contact us today!
Is Managed Print Right For You?
October 30, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
Managed print is famous for being a perfect fit for all kinds of companies–but what about yours? Naturally, you want to be sure about any big business decision before you make it, so you’re probably looking for an easy way to answer that question. Look no more–today, we’ll help you decide once and for all if managed print is right for you!

Strong Printing, Strong Companies

With the rise of digital solutions and fantastic tech tools, you might wonder whether printing is on its way out–or if managed print is even necessary anymore. The truth is that printing will probably never go out of style, but it is getting smarter–for example, sleeker workflows and greener solutions–and that’s right where managed print comes in. With managed print, it’s easier than ever to make sure you’re printing in savvy, environmentally friendly, and efficient ways, all without breaking the bank.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean managed print is right for you. Here’s how to know if managed print can help make your company stronger!

#1: Do you have a print strategy?

If you do have a print strategy, that’s great! Managed print can help you analyze it from top to bottom and make sure it’s doing everything you want it to do.

If you don’t, managed print has all the tools and solutions you need to start working on your brand-new strategy.

#2: Do you know your print costs?

Most companies don’t. After all, that’s okay; print costs are often hidden and incredibly varied–but if you’re not actively working to understand those costs, they can start hurting your budget. Luckily, managed print has all the transparency tools and analysis solutions you need to understand and control your costs.

#3: Do you want to print smarter?

If printing is a chore in your business, chances are – it’s wasting time and money, too. Managed print can help you turn printing into a valuable asset instead of frustration, all while saving that time and money.

So, is managed print right for you? Contact us today to find out!
Konica Minolta to Ignite Print Possibilities as Exhibitor at PRINTING United Insight Days
October 25, 2020 8:52 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta to Ignite Print Possibilities as Exhibitor at PRINTING United Insight Days
RAMSEY, NJ (October 22, 2020) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced its participation as a top sponsor at PRINTING United Insight Days, a virtual experience running October 26 through November 12 that will deliver an interactive series of community-based content sessions to connect the global printing industry.

Konica Minolta knows its current and potential clients are searching for a provider of high quality, production-level, digital printing presses and products. To maintain its status as the brand of choice, it focuses on offering products, software solutions, and services. All this is aimed at enabling cost efficiencies and productivity options unique to digital printing, while delivering printed output of the highest caliber and consistency at a competitive price point. Given the new economic challenges due to the ongoing quarantine and health concerns, it is more important than ever for a solutions and hardware provider to be a true partner to printers to ensure financial recovery.

“Considering the obvious challenges faced by the print industry this year, we are encouraging customers to ‘rethink the future of print,’ and look forward to engaging with and supporting printers during this event as they further embrace convergence,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning. “Our ongoing investment in growth businesses through our products in categories of decorative print, wide format, high-speed ink, packaging and labeling and production color will create new opportunities for our customers to increase revenue as they recover from the effects of the pandemic.”

Konica Minolta will activate on numerous days throughout the 14-day event to promote its expansive product line and demonstrate the facilitation of convergence through its products. Participation on specific days will include:

Wide Format Day – October 26

Konica Minolta will showcase its AccurioWide 200 and 160, two wide format inkjet printers that help customers increase job applications to grow their business. These devices offer superior image quality and high productivity for outdoor and indoor job applications. Equipped with UV LED lamps, they enable printing on a wider range of media — while simultaneously saving energy, time and costs.

Digital Inkjet Day – October 28

The AccurioJet KM-1, often referred to as the “Swiss Army Knife” of printing for its versatility with substrates and applications, as well as its successor, the KM-1e, offer Konica Minolta’s unique, patented technology that solves the challenge of uncontrolled ink dot movement that reduces print quality and workable materials. Konica Minolta proudly promotes this technology that uniquely self-freezes ink drops upon contact with materials, resulting in superior color stability and consistency and excellent results with instantly dry perfect prints.

Digital Toner Day Sponsorship – November 1

Through this daily sponsorship, Konica Minolta will demonstrate the integration of the AccurioPress C14000/C12000, its high-speed toner-based digital presses, with the MGI JETvarnish 3D Evolution through exciting video footage taken at its state-of-the-art Customer Engagement Center (CEC). The 18,000 sq. foot facility located at its U.S. Headquarters in Ramsey, NJ showcases the latest technologies revolutionizing the production print industry. This includes Konica Minolta’s leading cut-sheet and roll-fed presses, MGI decorative embellishment and foil stamping presses, wide-format printers, label and packaging presses, and more.

Konica Minolta is also poised to introduce its new high-speed digital printing press, the AccurioPress C4080, a brand new, all-in-one print factory. The C4080 Series replaces the C3080 Series, a lower-end production press debuted in June 2018. The perfect fit for businesses looking to expand their production capabilities, this robust and user-friendly production press will launch in a few weeks.

Packaging Day Sponsorship – November 4

Konica Minolta’s activation will focus on the integration of its KM-1 with the MGI JETvarnish 3D Evolution for extra added value and sensory dimensional textures to printed output through a product demo video with its KM-1 customer Vulcan Information Packaging. Attendees will learn how this customer transitioned into digital print finishing and was able to provide faster turnaround and unparalleled quality to its customers through improved color graphics and photos from the KM-1 and endless combinations of embellishment with MGI technology.

Virtual Showcase – October 6 – December 31

Throughout the event, Konica Minolta will conduct one-on-one meetings and schedule product demonstrations for current and prospective clients within its Virtual Showcase. Extensive content, including virtual events, will also be accessible to attendees to learn about all Konica Minolta’s technologies including the AccurioPress C14000, AccurioJet KM-1 and KM-1e, wide-format, MGI inkjet and embellishment and packaging and label technologies.

A staunch advocate for the industry, Konica Minolta’s commitment to help lead the print industry to recovery and future growth is also demonstrated through its ongoing premier sponsorship of the PRINTING United Alliance, which includes support of important events such as the Color Conference, Continuous Improvement Conference and the TAGA Annual Technical Conference.

Register online for PRINTING United Insight Days and visit Konica Minolta’s Virtual Showcase.
Are Your Multifunction Printers HIPAA Compliant?
October 22, 2020 11:56 pm Leave a Comment
Security and compliance are two sides of the same coin. However, that doesn’t mean either one of them is necessarily easy to implement. Here are a few ways to see if your multifunction printers are safe, secure, and HIPAA compliant!

Analyzing Compliance

While multifunction printers might be powerful, efficient, and great for boosting creativity in the workplace, they certainly aren’t invincible. This means that, like all printers, your multifunction device needs a little TLC to make sure it’s safe and secure. This is especially important when it comes to HIPAA compliance, which protects employees, customers, and your business as a whole.

But how can you tell if your multifunction printers and workflows are HIPAA compliant and as secure as possible?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself!
- “Do we have secure printing?”
  
  Secure printing requires a code to be entered at the printer before any print job will be released. This helps make sure that the person who hit print in the first place is the same person who retrieves the document–rather than someone accidentally taking or distributing the file.
- “Do we use encryption?”
  
  Encryption acts like a safety net for your data. It doesn’t necessarily prevent security breaches, but it makes data unreadable if it happens to fall into the wrong hands between your devices and your printer.
- “Are our employees properly trained?”
  
  Employee training is a big part of maintaining HIPAA compliance. Make sure everyone’s on the same page when it comes to access, communication, protocols, security habits, and other important details, especially when it comes to the use of your multifunction printer.
- “Do we update regularly?”
  
  If you’re putting off updates, you’re opening the door to all kinds of trouble. Software updates and patches help protect your multifunction printers, keeping you safe from hackers and other digital threats.
Do you want more multifunction printer tips or need help with HIPAA compliance? Contact us today to get started!
Konica Minolta Receives BLI PaceSetter Award for Ease of Use in its Enterprise Devices
October 20, 2020 11:37 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Receives BLI PaceSetter Award for Ease of Use in its Enterprise Devices
Ramsey, NJ (October 16, 2020) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), is proud to announce it has received a prestigious Buyers Lab (BLI) PaceSetter award 2020-2021 in Ease of Use: Enterprise Devices from Keypoint Intelligence, the world’s leading independent evaluator for document imaging, software, hardware and services. Keypoint Intelligence based its selection on comprehensive testing and research, determining which OEM has incorporated the highest degree of end-to-end ease of use in the design of their enterprise devices.

Organizations today need to provide employees across departments with hardware and printing infrastructure for a wide variety of applications. With this broad scope of functionalities, ease of use has become one of the most important features in modern multi-functional peripherals (MFPs). Konica Minolta is pursuing an uncompromising customer-centric approach: When developing a new MFP device, understanding use patterns, behaviors and user requirements is the cornerstone of its process. Konica Minolta’s close contact to its customers and additional research amongst dealers and other stakeholders enables it to create solutions perfectly suited for enterprise environments.

Konica Minolta drives usability-enhancing innovations

To determine the market leader, Keypoint Intelligence carried out a study on functionality in everyday usage situations in enterprise work scenarios. With the award, Keypoint Intelligence recognizes the importance of this factor in Konica Minolta’s product design and development. After conducting comprehensive research on what customers do with their devices and which functions are most needed, Konica Minolta created a unique, large control panel that is fully tiltable. The screen provides easy access to all basic settings and touch navigation for a pleasant and effective user experience.

Keypoint Intelligence states: “Konica Minolta is very strong when it comes to typical print, scan and copy functions, what really separates these next-generation products form the competition are the apps onboard tools, and innovations.” Konica Minolta’s MarketPlace comes preinstalled on all new devices. It allows its customers to access cloud offerings such as Box, Dropbox, Google Drive, Google Mail, Microsoft OneDrive, OneDrive for Business and Microsoft Sharepoint. All of these applications are easily downloaded and directly used on the panel. Apps like Scan to Gmail, Sharepoint or OneDrive complement these options.

Also, directly on the device, the How2 app allows users to access online instructions directly from the MFP. One of the most striking functionalities, however, is Konica Minolta’s Follow-You-Persona feature, which enables customization of the MFP panel with all tools and apps a specific user most frequently needs. This way, users can work even more efficiently from any device, anywhere.

“We are particularly honored to receive this award, as it recognizes the diligent measures we take to understand customers and users’ needs in order to develop and deliver new solutions that serve individual preferences and working behaviors,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Planning and Management, Konica Minolta. “As we progress further into the advancement of the Intelligent Connected Workplace, we will continue to focus on design technologies that are intuitive and adapt to our users.”

Konica Minolta has a long history of being a pioneer in regard to the user experience of its MFPs. Last year, the jury of the Good Design Award 2019 praised the A3 color MFPs bizhub C360i/C300i/C250i for their highly intuitive interfaces and user experience, and the C650i/550i/450i Series and recently introduced C750i, 750i, 650i/550i/450i and 360i/300 are based on this same award-winning interface. Although the company has offered the ability to tailor the MFP display to customers’ individual needs for more than ten years, Konica Minolta’s Personalize advances this concept even further, optimizing productivity by allowing users to access their own personalized UI instantly on any device around the world.

Read Keypoint Intelligence’s announcement its Buyers Lab PaceSetter award 2020-2021 in Ease of Use: Enterprise Devices online.
Konica Minolta Launches New Managed Application Services Packages
October 16, 2020 12:07 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches New Managed Application Services Packages
Ramsey, NJ, (October 15, 2020) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), today announced new Application as a Service packages including document and print management with advanced workflow, network fax and healthcare-specific offerings. These scalable and fully managed packages are enabled by the latest additions to the Workplace Hub product line. Workplace Hub Core and Smart provide a secure, fully managed platform with 24 x 7 monitoring and management. This avoids the customer needing to internally build, maintain or support the infrastructure needed for the applications.

Workplace Hub Core has been introduced to support businesses of all sizes by providing a rack-based processing platform utilizing best-in-breed hardware and software with a suite of managed IT services and support. The customer does not have to provide, build or maintain anything while getting the peace of mind their solution is always on, always available and fully secure.

Workplace Hub Smart offers the same functionality as Core – plus the power of the bizhub i-Series products – with an embedded server in the base, providing customers with print and copy speeds ranging from 25ppm to 65ppm (pages per minute), with Scan speeds ranging from 100/200ipm to 140/280ipm (images per minute).

“We’re extremely pleased to be able to launch these new packages and further expand the Workplace Hub offering to our customers. As digital transformation becomes ever more important as businesses adapt to new external forces, it was important for us to broaden the number of application services and packages to create an even more customizable suite,” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Digital Transformation and Emerging Technologies, Konica Minolta. “With Core and Smart we combine hardware, solution software, professional services, managed services and administrator support to deliver a service that is always on, always available, and hassle-free for one monthly fee.”

These new packages will include the following offerings:
- Document management to provide process automation for the storage and retrieval of documents, content, emails and data
- Print management to enable businesses and organizations of any size to manage, analyze, account and optimize print, copy, fax and scan output while providing document security to help comply with government regulations
- Print management with single sign-on (SSO) to advanced workflows
- Flexible and configurable network faxing with integration and automation capabilities
- Healthcare bundles to secure Protected Health Information (PHI) from EHR backend systems
Visit Konica Minolta online for more information on Workplace Hub Core and Smart and to book an appointment with a representative for a customized consultation.
Konica Minolta Named in Managed Print Services Market by Gartner
October 11, 2020 7:13 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Named in Managed Print Services Market by Gartner
Ramsey, NJ (October 6, 2020) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) has been recognized in the Market Guide for Managed Print Services (MPS) in the Digital Workplace by Gartner, the world’s leading research and advisory company. MPS providers named in the June, 2020 report “are able to deliver MPS from small and large enterprises within a broad array of industries, and in at least three global regions.” Gartner further states, ”in this Market Guide, we have included the providers that have received the most client interest based upon searches on Gartner.com and customer inquiry.”

“We have made significant investments into our print services and solutions, and will continue to drive innovation as clients’ needs grow for secure home printing solutions, cloud-enabled digital workflow services and cloud print infrastructure transformation services,” said Rick Taylor, President and CEO Konica Minolta. “Having our efforts recognized by such an organization we consider an immense honor, and we are pleased to be among these providers of managed print services.”

As the digital workplace evolves, Konica Minolta realizes the necessity of providing advanced capabilities to further drive the intelligent connected workplace. These include cloud enablement and services, security consultancy services and app-enabled print platforms. Konica Minolta was praised for its OEM-branded solutions that are able to manage print streams using direct IP printing or print queues. This includes solutions such as Consult: Secure Print and Dispatcher Paragon/Suite.

Dispatcher Paragon/Suite

Launched in 2011, Dispatcher Phoenix, Konica Minolta’s award-winning scan/document workflow management solution allows customers to manage document/content capturing and workflow design and automation capability through an intuitive UI and robust platform. In 2019, the company introduced Dispatcher Suite, which combines Dispatcher Phoenix with Dispatcher Paragon, its print output management solution, offering an all in one, integrated platform streamlining from print management to document capture and workflow management.

“We are confident our award-winning Dispatcher Suite helps further accelerate our successful MPS engagements by offering added convenience and tangible value to our clients. It helps them expand their digital transformation from MFP fleet management into content capturing and workflow management,” said Nick Pegley, Senior Vice President, Digital Workplace, Konica Minolta.

Consult: Secure Print

In order to provide centralized fleet monitoring/management services, Konica Minolta utilizes its Consult platform, leveraging multi-tenant cloud infrastructure. Consult remotely installs a lightweight Windows application – the ‘Consult App’ – which runs at the client’s site. The App scans MFP IP addresses, detecting devices and transmitting MIB data to the cloud. It also monitors MFP diagnostics for optimal fleet performance. Consult includes Cartographer, a cloud-based current/transition/future-state fleet mapping solution that provides fleet optimization recommendations.

To further build on its strategy to provide the most comprehensive portfolio of intelligent connected workplace solutions, Konica Minolta is partnered with Google, which allows the company and its dealer partners to offer the full suite of Google Cloud solutions. Its alliance with Dropbox provides customers with management of their business processes and supports their digital transformation initiatives.

Visit Konica Minolta online to learn more about its print management software and solutions.
Sharing Office Equipment for Remote Work and Learning
October 8, 2020 3:10 pm Leave a Comment
You’ve probably heard of “the new normal”, but if you’re working from home and sharing office equipment with kids who are learning virtually, it probably feels anything but normal. Here are a few tips to help make working, learning, and everyday pandemic life just a little bit easier.

Safe, Organized, and Sane

It’s not easy to stay safe, organized, and sane these days–but with remote working and learning happening all in the same place, it’s important to find creative solutions. Here are a few tips to get everyone in your office/school-room/kitchen off on the right foot!

Safe
- Child-proof your device.
With all kinds of browser tools and device options, it’s easier than ever to make sure your remote learners stay focused on school.
- Protect your network.
Depending on what office equipment you have at home, your network might be full of vulnerabilities. Make sure everything is password-protected and locked down, from printers to individual devices.

Organized
- Create user accounts.
Suppose you’re a remote worker sharing a device with virtual learners. In that case, user accounts can help keep your company’s data safe from prying eyes or accidental deletion while helping keep kids focused and organized. It’s a win-win.
- Stay in contact.
Communicate with bosses, teachers, and other people in your house. This is a learning curve for everyone so that a little communication can go a long way!

Sane

All of these changes and new expectations are hard on everyone. To keep kids and yourself on track, try these simple tips:
- Set a schedule.
Scheduling your day can seem unnecessary when everything’s online, but knowing what to do and when is a great help when you or your little learners are low on motivation. Meetings, homework, lunch breaks–write it all out and make sure everyone’s on the same page.
- Expect frustration.
From internet troubles to misplaced devices, remote learning and virtual work can be frustrating. Expect to be a little understanding, and the chances are that teachers and coworkers will understand too.

Are you looking for more tips? Need office equipment for virtual learning and remote work? Contact us today!
3 Times Scanning Saves the Day
October 1, 2020 6:07 pm Leave a Comment
Document Scanning is a great solution, but some companies aren’t sure when they need to use it. Here are three scenarios where scanning saves the day!

Savvy Scanning

In a world full of complex, pricey business solutions, document scanning is a breath of fresh air. It gives you the flexibility, power, and convenience that you need to achieve your goals–and those goals can be just about anything, from improving communication to creating (and sticking with) organization conventions.

If you want to see what scanning can do, there’s no replacement for seeing it in action. Here are three examples of times when scanning might just save the day!

#1: The Big Move

Let’s say your office is relocating. Whether it’s across the street or the world, you don’t want to be dragging stacks of papers with you wherever you go–but luckily, scanning is here to help. Making your physical files into convenient digital documents and moving your office just got as easy as “copy and paste.”

#2: The File Fiasco

You might not have to use too much imagination to picture this scenario. It’s all too familiar: stacks of records piled up here and there, blocking desks and getting in the way. They’re important files, but you’re not using them immediately, so you don’t know what to do. The good news is that scanning can make those stacks of paper a thing of the past, providing options and tools for long- or short-term file storage depending on your needs.

#3: The Organizer’s Dream

Maybe you’ve been trying for years to get your business organized, but something always comes along to get in your way. With scanning, there are no more excuses. It’s easier than ever to organize digital files by name, date, keyword, and topic–and the best part is that you can search for them digitally instead of hunting through file cabinets!

So, can document scanning save the day for you? Contact us today to find out!
MFP TLC: Understanding Multifunction Printer Duty Cycles
September 24, 2020 8:34 pm Leave a Comment
When it comes to multifunction printers, you want to be an expert on “MFP TLC.” One thing you can do to make sure your machine lives a long, productive life is to brush up on printer duty cycles, what they are, and why they’re important.

Understanding Your Machine

The good news is that multifunction printers are user-friendly and easy to operate. They don’t require years of technical training, and they certainly don’t ask you to learn all kinds of tech jargon to get your files printed, copied, scanned, or faxed.

However, one thing you will want to add to your vocabulary is the “printer duty cycle.” Here’s what you need to know!

What is it?

“Printer duty cycle” might sound complicated, but the chances are that it’s a more familiar concept than you might realize. Essentially, printers are tested during manufacturing to determine what their limits are under normal conditions so that you know how much you can expect from your machine.

Keep in mind that the printer duty cycle represents your multifunction printer’s maximum capacity, while “recommended print volume” sets more realistic, everyday expectations.

Why does it matter?

Understanding printer duty cycles can help you make the most of your multifunction printer and avoid putting undue strain on the device. When you know what your machine is capable of, it’s much easier to put it to work for you. On top of that, regular printer TLC has all kinds of benefits for your MFP (and your workflows, and your budgets), including:
- better performance,
- improved reliability,
- longer lifespan,
- fewer print flaws and errors,
- higher speeds,
- and more.
Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Are you looking for tips on MFP TLC? Contact us today!
Savvy Security Tips for Remote Workers (and Schoolers)
September 17, 2020 7:07 pm Leave a Comment
It’s official: the world has changed, and now employees and students alike are left to change with it. Working and schooling remotely has created and will continue to create new challenges, from IT issues to turning kitchens into offices and classrooms–but if you’re worried about how to stay secure (and sane) through all the uncertainty, here are a few simple tips to help you out.

Coexisting

The first and most noticeable challenge we’re facing in this “new normal” is the need to coexist. Working remotely while the kids are doing online school at the other end of the kitchen island can create problems you’ve never had to face before. The offices and schools we took for granted less than a year ago, outfitted with corporate security solutions and high-level efficiency tools, are now a fond memory of the past. We’re left to navigate working, schooling, and living–all entirely from the couch.

The good news is that we’re all learning new ways to adapt to our complicated environments, overcome stay-at-home challenges, and keep ourselves and our data safe from security threats. Take, for example, IT security. It doesn’t look the same anymore, sure, but things like backup and recovery or cloud services have never been more critical. It’s all about taking old solutions, making them new again, and utilizing them for all your unique needs–remote work and online school included.

Security Tips for a New World

Ready to take control of your work life and school year? Here are a few security tips that will keep you safe and make your stay-at-home life just a little bit easier.

For employees
- Get smart.
Digital bad-guys aren’t taking a holiday. Coronavirus-themed phishing emails are a brand-new threat to look out for–so, like at the office, keep an eye out for suspicious messages or senders in your work account.
- Use encryption.
Encryption helps cover any weak points that your home network might have. It keeps sensitive and professional data secure while making your network less of a target.
- Use passwords.
It’s simple advice, but it goes a long way when working remotely. Every device and network should have a complicated password–ideally a phrase or randomized string of characters rather than an easily-guessed word or date.

For students
- Create a routine.
Schools provided a solid routine for students, but without that structure, some kids can fall behind. Help your online learners create a routine that fits their needs (and keeps them out of the home office when you’re trying to work!). Remember to schedule breaks and meal-times, too.
- Get them started.
Before you head to the home office or the couch yourself, help kids get started on schoolwork. Ensure they’re logged in, working on specific tasks, and confident about what they need to do (and when to do it).
- Keep an eye on IT security.
Remember, IT security isn’t extinct–it just looks different. Help kids make secure choices online because if they run into any trouble now, it’s your home/work/school network on the line.

For coexisting
- Use parental controls.
If you’re working remotely, then you’re probably sitting just feet from the kids–but that doesn’t mean you have time to keep an eye on what they’re up to. Use parental controls to set limits on access and functions so kids have the freedom they need, but not too much.
- Create separate user accounts.
Every user on your device should have a separate account. This helps keep everything organized, sure–but it also keeps sensitive information, or twenty-page English reports from accidentally getting moved, deleted, or sent out.

Looking for more IT security tips to keep yourself and your data safe while working remotely, schooling remotely, and living remotely? Contact us today!
Sharp Adds Nine New Printers and MFPs to Its Letter-Sized A4 Line
September 16, 2020 12:21 am Comments Off on Sharp Adds Nine New Printers and MFPs to Its Letter-Sized A4 Line
MONTVALE, N.J., Sept. 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today adds nine new models to its existing letter-sized A4 printer and MFP lineup, providing a total of 19 A4 models for home and office use. The additional products include three monochrome models: MX-B557F, MX-B557P and MX-B707P and six color models: MX-C357F, MX-C407F, MX-C507F, MX-C407P, MX-C507P and MX-C607P. These new models are designed with high-performance features typically found on larger machines, delivering the productivity, performance and reliability needed for busy work environments.

The new lineup, which includes four multifunction printers (MFPs), delivers a crisp, high-quality output with an exceptional ease of use, all in a compact design. These models present an intuitive design as well as out-of-the box copy, print, scan and fax capabilities. Additionally, with speeds ranging from 35 – 70 pages per minute, these products can integrate seamlessly into any existing office environments. The four MFP models are also compatible with Synappx Go™, a mobile application that connects to Sharp MFPs for fast scanning and printing wherever you go.

“We’re proud to offer a more versatile selection of A4 printers to serve the varying needs of organizations looking to enhance their hybrid workspaces,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Businesses can look to Sharp for a one-stop solution for both A4 and A3 printers with monochrome and color capabilities, providing them a complete line of products in the document systems marketplace.”

Users will benefit from a compact design with robust technology and advanced workflow features for virtually any sized office. Each MFP also comes equipped with Sharp Easy Mode interfaces that provide simplicity and continuity with Sharp A3 MFPs. All new printers and MFPs come standard with touch screens for easy operation and the ability to quickly access built-in and add-on applications.

The new models in the A4 printer lineup will be available to ship at the end of September 2020.
Konica Minolta Expands bizhub® i-Series Line with New Monochrome Devices
12:19 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Expands bizhub® i-Series Line with New Monochrome Devices
Ramsey, NJ, (September 14, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, has expanded its bizhub® i-Series with the launch of six new black and white A3 multifunctional printers (MFPs). The new bizhub 750i, 650i, 550i, 450i, 360i and 300i multifunctional devices offer functionality with beneficial features for workplaces with printing needs ranging from low-volume to high-volume, not requiring color output.

The launch expands Konica Minolta’s offering with the addition of the 75ppm 750i, a speed not available in its previous monochrome MFP lineup. Like all models in the bizhub i-Series product line, the new units meet a wide range of needs for businesses by offering a simple, convenient and secure smart technology hub to augment office connectivity.

Simple

The six new monochrome units are all based on the bizhub i-Series platform, with the same modern design and easy operation as the color line to ensure uniformity in operation and solution integration and services. An enhanced user interface allows jobs to be performed quickly and easily and with fewer keystrokes. The bizhub monochrome units offer the usability customers have come to expect from the i-Series, including a consistent user experience between engines, even for businesses with mixed fleets.

The units mirror the functionality of the color versions exactly, with the exception of the Fiery controller and related software. There is no learning curve since the capabilities are consistent throughout the bizhub i-Series line.

The large, floating 10″ tablet-style touch panel with a 26° to 90° tilt angle provides convenient accessibility and operation for all users with standard customization functionality as well as through the optional MarketPlace UI Builder, Personalize and Personalize’s Follow-You Persona. Easy, touchless accessibility is provided through the bizhub Remote Access app, enabling remote MFP panel operations, data entry and scanned data import from the convenience of a mobile and tablet device.

As a testament to its design and easy operation, the i-Series was recently recognized by Keypoint Intelligence as a recipient of 2020-21 BLI PaceSetter award in Ease of Use: Enterprise Devices, noting that ease of use is a critical factor in product design and development for Konica Minolta and it has “made its mark with usability-enhancing innovations.”

Secure

As an extension of the bizhub i-Series, the monochrome devices also offer the highest built-in security standards with additional options for a complete security setting. Data is protected and reliably accessible through a layered approach to ensure the ultimate defense against any potential threat.

The Solid-State Drive (SSD) offers greater security than a traditional hard disk drive, using flash memory instead of magnetic storage that may not completely erase deleted data. In addition, all SSL communications are encrypted through a highly secure encryption algorithm which is based on the U.S. NSA (National Security Agency) standard and available only from Konica Minolta. All i-Series models are compliant with GDPR and ISO 15408 certified HCD-PP, ensuring that all data privacy standards and endpoint security requirements are met.

Additionally, through bizhub SECURE services, security is tailored to specific needs through data encryption, locked passwords, secured access and device network settings. The optional BitDefender® anti-virus software safeguards against viruses and malware by scanning incoming and outgoing data, adding yet another security layer to protect a business’ ecosystem.

Convenient

Users of the new monochrome devices will enjoy many of the handy features offered by the i-Series line – not available on previous black and white models – that serve to increase productivity and serviceability. A new, soft close feature has been introduced on the dual scan feeder, and double-feed detection comes standard to avoid paper jams when media sticks together. First copy out and warm-up times have also been reduced to save time.

The optional Intelligent Media Sensor, developed exclusively by Konica Minolta, automatically detects stock weight and makes necessary adjustments, streamlining shifts between media. An improved waste toner box eliminates spills when replacing cartridges. Designed to consume minimal power while the printer is not in use, the i-Series is one of the top energy-saving MFPs in the industry.

As part of Konica Minolta’s next-generation multifunctional device portfolio designed to empower digital workflows, the new monochrome MFPs have also been designed to work with sophisticated workflow tools such as Konica Minolta’s Dispatcher Suite, also layered by security options through bizhub SECURE services. This allows for businesses to have effective print management and advanced document workflow while maintaining document security.

“Keeping our customers and end users in mind, as well as the ever-changing ways of work, our bizhub® i-Series multifunctional devices offer versatile and tailored solutions for any type of business and organization, ensuring minimal disruption to productivity and efficiency,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “With the addition of the monochrome models, our i-Series product line is now complete, providing the ease of use we have become known for in the industry with the choice of color or black and white.”

In addition to the BLI PaceSetter award recognizing ease of use, Konica Minolta has received many other industry accolades for its bizhub i-Series, including the international Red Dot and Good Design awards for product design, ASTOR Homeland Security Awards and Better Buys Editor’s Choice awards.

The bizhub i-Series monochrome devices offer versatile configurations to meet customer requirements in terms of workflow, applications and budget. Learn more about the 750i, 650i, 550i and 450i, 360i and 300i online.
Konica Minolta Named a Worldwide Leader by IDC MarketScape for Print Transformation
September 12, 2020 6:36 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Named a Worldwide Leader by IDC MarketScape for Print Transformation
Ramsey, NJ, (September 9, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce it has been named as a leader in the IDC MarketScape: ‘Worldwide Print Transformation 2020 Vendor Assessment’ (doc #US45354420, August 2020).

Konica Minolta has pursued an active approach to significantly grow its product portfolio and capabilities, leveraging its expertise in technology, products and workflow solutions to provide clients with the tools and competencies to support their digital transformation. The IDC MarketScape states that “Konica Minolta has successfully executed this plan in targeted areas such as managed IT services, security, voiceover IP (VoIP), enterprise content management, business process outsourcing and vertical specific ERP and CRM solutions.” The report notes that “…customers seeking more than just a refresh of their printer/MFP portfolio and more of a vision of the workplace’s evolution into the future may want to consider Konica Minolta.”

Konica Minolta’s respective portfolio is also recognized by the IDC MarketScape in its report, as its product evolution involves a continuum of products and services including hardware, managed services, and business process automation integrated into an Intelligent Connected Workplace. The company maintains a client-centric approach to portfolio development in order to build profitable business solutions with its clients as they navigate through their digital transformation journeys to support the Workplace of the Future™. IDC MarketScape assessed that “Konica Minolta believes that technology needs to be human centered, so understanding the motivations, wants, and needs of the worker is essential. The company will focus on the ‘why’ when implementing new technology and not just the ‘how’.”

“Throughout the pandemic, Konica Minolta focused on using innovation and technology to solve clients’ business challenges. We reimagined, repackaged and repurposed existing technologies to create new offerings to help companies maintain business continuity,” said Kay Fernandez, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Konica Minolta. “The IDC MarketScape’s assessment is a testament to our ongoing hard work and efforts to assist clients with the acceleration toward digital transformation, and further imparts confidence amongst our clients that we will continue to pivot as the world of work further evolves.”

One main reason for the positioning as a leader is Konica Minolta’s transition toward being a partner for holistic printing and office IT solutions. The report highlights a specific product example of Konica Minolta’s digital solutions: “Konica Minolta’s MarketPlace platform represents a key element in the company’s Intelligent Connected Workplace vision. The Konica Minolta MarketPlace platform makes it easy for customers to access the tools they need to connect their MFPs to various industry-related, security and cloud service apps. Konica Minolta’s bizhub i-Series devices are increasingly becoming the centerpiece of the ‘Intelligent Connected Workplace’ of its customers.”

Amongst its IT solutions, Konia Minolta is also providing its small and medium-sized business clients with a literal ‘hub’ for their IT: Workplace Hub. Available in different versions, it brings together best-in-class hardware with compatible software and managed services, unburdening and empowering their IT. Konica Minolta’s leadership role in driving the digitalization makes it an attractive partner both for clients as well as investors.

Within the framework of its DX Stock 2020 program, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) organized the Competitive IT Strategy Company Stock Selection. It highlights companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange that are particularly attractive for investors that prioritize improving corporate value over the medium to long term. As one of those companies, Konica Minolta has been highly rated with regard to the potential of its new business model, including digital transformation support services for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) under its Intelligent Connected Workplace. Learn more online.
Why Small Businesses Love Managed Print
September 9, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
Since no two small businesses are exactly alike, it’s sometimes difficult to find a tool or solution they all agree on. After all, with so many different markets, industries, needs, and challenges represented, can any one thing be a perfect fit for everyone? Believe it or not, that’s exactly what you can expect from managed print–and here’s why.

A Fan Favorite

No matter where you’re located, how many employees you have, or what you do, the chances are high that you do a lot of printing. Sure, printing can be a big weight on your budget, and, when handled improperly, it can be frustrating and inefficient too–but the truth is that printing can be your business’s best friend if you play your cards right.

That’s why small businesses love managed print services: it’s a solution that allows them to take control of their printing in creative, flexible ways. You’ll see all kinds of benefits, from happier customers to sleeker workflows–all without breaking the bank.

Here are a few reasons why managed print is truly a fan favorite!
- Boosting efficiency
Managed print is all about efficiency. If there are unnecessary steps in your workflows, inefficient machines in your fleet, or tasks that would be better off automated, managed print will help you find and address them.
- Going green
Want to make up with Mother Nature? With managed print, it’s easier to choose green solutions–like recycling your toner cartridges or using paper more efficiently.
- Improving supply management
If you’re always over-ordering or under-ordering, your print environment will suffer. Managed print helps you understand your needs so that you still have exactly what the job calls for.
- Saving money
Managed print solutions begin with a “print audit” that, among other things, helps you understand where your money is going. You can use this information to make all the right steps toward a tighter, healthier budget.

Are you ready to become one of the small businesses that love managed print? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta launches Personalize App with Follow-You Persona Service
August 31, 2020 11:27 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta launches Personalize App with Follow-You Persona Service
Ramsey, NJ, (August 31, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce the Personalize app with Follow-You Persona Service, an advanced, industry-leading solution that allows users to customize the MFP panel on i-Series devices according to their individual preferences and have their personalized user interface (UI) follow them to any supported device on a global scale.

In times of increasingly complex working environments, user experience is key for adopting technology. People need to be able to understand technology quickly and use it intuitively without the need for lengthy or extensive training. Users expect, for instance, a similar user experience to the one they know from their mobile phone. Personalize specifically addresses this challenge, allowing employees to easily customize the MFP UI to match their own working behavior and needs, decreasing the time they spend in front of their devices while increasing efficiency and operational cost savings.

Konica Minolta has a long history of being a pioneer in regard to the user experience of its MFPs. Last year, the jury of the Good Design Award 2019 praised the A3 color MFPs bizhub C360i/C300i/C250i for their highly intuitive interfaces and user experience, and the C650i/550i/450i Series and recently introduced C750i are based on this same award-winning interface. Although the company has offered the ability to tailor the MFP display to customers’ individual needs for more than ten years, Konica Minolta’s Personalize advances this concept even further, optimizing productivity by allowing users to access their own personalized UI instantly on any device around the world. Personalize’s advanced technology was recently recognized by Keypoint Intelligence as part of Konica Minolta’s 2020-21 BLI PaceSetter award in Ease of Use: Enterprise Devices, an honor that recognizes OEMs for incorporating end-to-end ease of use in the design of enterprise devices.

“The enhanced features we offer through Personalize truly pave the way to the Intelligent Connected Workplace,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning. “Taking into consideration the fact that multifunctional devices can have multiple users, we designed an experience based on individual preferences and working behaviors.”

Decreasing operational costs and time spent in front of the MFP, while increasing efficiency

Konica Minolta’s new Personalize app allows users to create individual MFP UIs that are immediately accessible when they authenticate to the device. Features and functions frequently accessed can be moved to the front using drag-and-drop functionality, while features that are not used – or used infrequently – can be removed from view. This allows more efficient operation of the MFP display, as the removal of unused functions causes less distraction for users, and faster access to frequently used functions means less time spent using the MFP in total. Users can also select their individual preferred language in which all MFP functions are presented, a useful feature for organizations with employees from all over the world. And, to add even more of a personal touch, users can choose a custom background for their UIs, selecting from pre-loaded images or (coming shortly) from their own uploaded images.

Personalize’s Follow-You Persona allows the individual UI to follow each user to any supported device within an organization upon authentication. With this unique service, users can have immediate access to their personalized UI wherever they go, with no additional set-up required. This cloud service also provides an easily accessible online admin portal for license and device management, making it easy for our customers to manage Personalize in their office.

Three different plans for organizations of all sizes

While the Personalize app is free of charge, the Personalize Follow-You Service is available via subscription with three plans to support customers ranging from SMEs to the enterprise level: Starter, Business, and Enterprise. The Starter Plan is an introductory plan that offers basic Follow-You Persona features and is best suited for small business. With the Business Plan, customers benefit from all the features of the Starter Plan along with additional personalization features for users. And the Enterprise Plan is an advanced plan that offers individualized support to give administrators more control.

Although these plans will be available on December 1, 2020 as chargeable plans, all Enterprise Plan features are available now through November 30, 2020 as an extended free trial. To access the free Personalize app, go to Konica Minolta’s Marketplace. Once the app has been installed, users can start the extended trial via the Personalize website.
Scanning Tips: Choosing Small Business Scanners
August 28, 2020 8:40 pm Leave a Comment
If you’ve decided to take your business to the next level by implementing document scanning solutions, congratulations–you’re on your way to better organization, smoother communication, and even a happier budget. First, though, you’ll need to take on the task of choosing a scanner for your small business.

Small Business, Big Needs

Small businesses don’t have less work to do just because they’re small. In fact, you’ve got challenges, needs, and goals that look entirely different from the big brand-name Goliaths–so your company deserves a document scanner up to the task. The trick is to find a machine that does everything you need it to do without introducing complexity or frustration into a solution that should be so simple it’s almost fun.

Here’s how to do just that!

#1: Find out what you’re scanning.

Your document scanning needs will determine the type of machine you want. Start by analyzing your goals and deciding exactly what types of documents you’ll be scanning, how many, and how often.

#2: Decide on OCR.

OCR, or optical character recognition, is a scanning tool that allows the machine to “read” your files, understand them, and essentially rewrite them as something you can search, edit, save, and share. It’s helpful if you deal with a lot of text-heavy documents or if you’d like to pull some fancy organization footwork–but it’s not necessarily a requirement, depending on your needs. (For example, if you were exclusively scanning blueprints or marketing photographs, you might not need to worry about OCR.)

#3: Research connectivity.

You want your scanner to play nice with the rest of your business’s software. Make sure to do research ahead of time, so you end up with a machine that fits into your workflow and makes things easier instead of more difficult!

Ready to take the next step in your scanning journey and choose a machine for your small business? Contact us today!
Do You Need a Multifunction Printer?
August 20, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
When it comes time to printer-shop, there are so many options that it’s easy to get overwhelmed. One of the biggest choices you’ll have to make is between a standalone machine and a multifunction printer. Here are a few quick questions to help you decide if multifunction is in your future!

Getting Started

The first step to buying a multifunction printer–or any business machine, really–is doing your research. You don’t need to make any decisions right away, but hopefully, some things will come easy–like whether you want to print in color or want your device to connect to the Internet. This will help you understand what you’re looking for and what probably won’t work for your needs.

Certain things, however, might be a little more challenging to decide on. If you’re still wondering whether a multifunction printer is right for you or if you’d be better off with a standalone device, here’s a quick way to get started. It’s simple: if you answer yes to any of the following questions, you might want to consider a multifunction device!

#1: Do you want to save money?

Okay, this one’s easy–chances are, you definitely want to save money. However, a multifunction printer helps you save money in unique ways–for example, only needing to maintain one machine instead of several, and only paying to power a single device instead of a whole fleet.

#2: Are you using document management solutions?

Document management solutions and multifunction printers go together like paper and ink. If you’re looking for a way to make the most of your document management solutions, let a multifunction printer streamline your workflows and organization simpler.

#3: Do you value multitasking in the workplace?

If your dream is to walk up to a machine, complete an entire job, and then sit back down to mark it off your to-do list, a multifunction printer is perfect for you. These machines allow you to print, scan, fax, and even copy, all without having to walk back and forth across the office.

So, do you need a multifunction printer? Contact us today to find your perfect machine!
Konica Minolta Launches All New Flagship Color A3 MFP bizhub C750i
August 19, 2020 10:58 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches All New Flagship Color A3 MFP bizhub C750i
Ramsey, NJ, (August 19, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce the latest addition to its bizhub i-Series, the bizhub C750i. The A3 high-volume color multi-functional peripheral (MFP) device is designed to provide the functionality of a small-scale print shop within a single unit suitable for an office space. The bizhub C750i offers the usability customers have come to expect from the i-Series, including a consistent user experience between engines, even for businesses with mixed fleets.

The bizhub C750i fulfills the needs of customers who process high-volume print jobs such as small CRDs or small- and mid-size copy shops. It can be used in office environments that require a high volume of printing in spaces ranging from a small room or corridor to a warehouse. The device is ideal for a wide range of offices including government, legal, education, healthcare environments and membership organizations.

“The bizhub C750i launch is a result of continually listening to our customers, tracking market needs and reviewing trends to provide devices that keep up with the ever-changing needs of the office,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “Its many enhanced features include higher print speeds for improved productivity, an intelligent media sensor for increased efficiency and of course, the latest in security to ensure data is protected.”

The bizhub C750i is the successor to the award-winning bizhub C759 MFP, with greater functionality, offering a print speed of up to 75ppm in mono and 70ppm in color. The high-capacity and high-speed dual-scan document feeder with double feed detection runs with a speed of up to 140/280ipm, ideal for schools or legal offices requiring larger scan volumes or digital archiving.

The bizhub C750i features versatile large finishers with an integrated manual stapler and offers a quick copy mode to guarantee faster copying with fewer clicks and pop-ups, with all main settings available at a glance. Additionally, the home screen customization makes it quicker to add, rearrange or remove the icons. Konica Minolta’s anticipated “Personalize” app offers users the ability to personalize the display of their MFP according to their individual preferences. Functions and features can be matched to their own individual working behavior and routines, decreasing the time employees spend in front of their devices and increasing efficiency and operational cost savings.

Intelligent media sensor reduces paper jams and improves output quality

Office communication requires different print media, and good print quality cannot be achieved unless the paper thickness is set correctly. Addressing the paper settings entails additional work every time users want to print. The bizhub C750i features an intelligent media sensor which instantly measures the paper type and thickness – for instance, thin or thick paper, recycled paper or envelopes – and automatically adjusts the paper settings as needed. This feature ensures fewer paper jams, fewer service calls, increased efficiency and better output quality.

Embedded security

As office documents become more digitized and the volumes of data increase, companies and institutions need centralized management and better access to documents for reference. They require more sophisticated integration with the cloud and advanced remote access, meaning more complex workflows and a need for better security. The bizhub C750i is equipped with the latest security technology to provide a safe, reliable user environment. The optional Bitdefender’s leading edge anti-virus solution monitors all scanned files and documents transferred to and from it in real time. It also enables automatic virus scanning on hard drives as well as manual scans. With bizhub SECURE, different security levels and access licenses can be set to ensure the security of office devices and protect device memory and network settings.

Remote usage and support

Similar to all other models in the bizhub i-Series, the bizhub C750i can be operated remotely, without the user ever having to even touch the control panel. The device can accommodate multiple users accessing the unit via computers, mobile phones and tablets. Konica Minolta also offers fast and professional support via a remote services tool.

Approaching the digital workplace with intelligent features

More and more businesses seek to become digital connected workplaces that bring together people, spaces and devices with data. The bizhub i-Series MFPs, including the bizhub C750i, are smart IoT-enabled devices offering a fully digital workplace, designed to pave the way to the “Intelligent Connected Workplace.” The bizhub C750i combines printing with process efficiency to empower customers to organize, streamline and customize their printing landscape while providing the tools to digitize workflows. With an innovative and intuitive user experience and powerful built-in processing capabilities, the bizhub C750i is able to provide secure access to a suite of cloud-based services and applications via Konica Minolta’s MarketPlace.
Keypoint Intelligence-Buyers Lab Honors Lexmark Color Devices with 2020 Summer Pick Awards
August 15, 2020 8:11 pm Comments Off on Keypoint Intelligence-Buyers Lab Honors Lexmark Color Devices with 2020 Summer Pick Awards
Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab honored the Lexmark CS431dw and the Lexmark CX431adw with their prestigious Summer 2020 Pick Awards for Outstanding Color Printer and MFP for Small Workgroups.

The Lexmark CS431dw and CX431adw are small workgroup dynamos that pack consistent color output into a lightweight and compact footprint. Built for reliability, performance and security, these units print up to 26 pages per minute* and offer expandable input for longer print runs. The units come with a 2.8-inch touch screen standard and connect easily via Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet or the cloud.

“Lexmark’s compact, user-friendly devices are great fits for any small workgroup looking for a color printer or MFP they can count on for reliability and high-quality output,” said Kaitlin Shaw, Associate

Director of A4 Hardware at Keypoint Intelligence. “Producing vibrant colors, clean lines, and clear text, image quality should more than meet the needs of general office use. Small workgroups can also rest assured that these devices will keep them productive given their strong performances, combined with how easy to use and maintain they are. And flexible mobile and cloud support means productivity can continue beyond the workstation.”

“This award validates Lexmark’s commitment to providing devices that combine enterprise-class reliability and security with small-business-friendly size, speed, pricing and ease of use,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “Lexmark partners expect us to deliver reliable, high-quality products their customers can count on. This award affirms that small workgroups can rely on these Lexmark color workhorses to meet their needs for years to come.”
- These devices are also sold via channel partners as devices in the Lexmark GO Line™ series.
- The Lexmark CS431dw is sold as the Lexmark C3426dw.
- The Lexmark CX431adw is sold as Lexmark MC3426adw.
Why Do You Need Managed IT Services?
August 14, 2020 5:21 pm Leave a Comment
You can do all kinds of research on managed IT services–read blogs, look at reviews, search the Internet until your eyes are ready to fall out of their sockets–but at the end of the day, only one question matters: why do you need managed IT? Here are just a few ways to answer that question!

Managed IT

Managed IT services isn’t a big, complicated, showy solution that will get you big, complicated, flashy results. Instead, you and your IT services provider will take time working together to learn your business, your needs, goals, and challenges to create the best combination of tools and solutions.

Of course, that doesn’t answer why–it just answers how.

There are plenty of reasons why your business might need managed IT services. To find out what your reason might be, read through the following questions–and if you say yes to any of them, then you know what your reasons are!

#1: Do you want to improve security?

If improving security is your goal, you couldn’t choose a better path than managed IT. By identifying your security weaknesses–like unreliable firewalls or out-of-date software, your provider will help you take the steps necessary to be confident in all your tech undertakings.

#2: Do you want to save money?

It’s easier than ever to save money with managed IT. Workflows will be streamlined, old devices and software will be replaced with more practical choices, and new tools and automation options will be put into place–which means your budget will certainly thank you.

#3: Do you want to make things easier on yourself and your staff?

Maintenance, repairs, troubleshooting, and more–it’s all part of the day-to-day IT life. If you’re tired of being tied down by these tech troubles and want to free yourself up for more important tasks, managed IT services is just the solution you’ve been looking for.

So, why do you need managed IT services? Contact us today to get started!
3 Ways Managed Print Saves You Money
August 6, 2020 6:54 pm Leave a Comment
You’ve probably heard that managed print can help save money–but did you know that it saves money in three different ways? Let’s take a look at what managed print can do for you!

An Intricate Approach

Managed print services are about more than keeping a tight grip on your printers themselves. If that were the case, it probably wouldn’t be such a successful solution. Instead, managed print treats your company as a complicated, sophisticated environment with all kinds of variables–and the result is a holistic approach that addresses multiple elements at once.

Take, for example, your budget. Instead of just looking at the dollars and cents, managed print takes a closer look, helping you understand where your money is going and why.

Sound too good to be true? Here are the three ways managed print saves you money (and makes some other great changes, too!).

#1: Cost analysis

The first step in any managed print program is generally the print audit, where you and your provider work together to get important information about your print environment. You’ll learn about device usage, the cost of consumables, good habits and bad habits, and more–and, by looking at this data, you’ll be able to see where your money goes and how to make better use of every dollar.

#2: Workflow improvements

Another way managed print helps save money is by addressing your workflow. Unnecessary steps and extra work can slow you down and drain your budget–but with managed print, it’s easier than ever to streamline and strengthen just about everything.

#3: Savvy solutions

Managed print services come armed with plenty of creative yet affordable solutions for your biggest printing pains–from security to efficiency. Whether you’re looking to automate tasks, connect to other devices, create a print queue, or step up your printing game, managed print is right there, with a cost-effective tool or trick.

Ready to see what else managed print can do? Contact us today to find out!
Getting Smart With Security for Online School and Remote Work
July 30, 2020 5:26 pm Leave a Comment
Everyone seems to be working and learning from home these days, and it’s getting easier to do so. However, many people don’t think about security as much when they are working from home vs. working in the office. It’s just as important to pay attention to cybersecurity when you’re in a home office as it is anywhere else, and this includes students learning from home.

Cybersecurity Basics

When you’re working or attending online school from home, all of the best practices you’ve learned are still in effect. It’s important to be wary of opening unexpected attachments as well as clicking on any links emailed to you. Keeping challenging passwords and changing them regularly is also important. Password protect all devices and teach kids to keep their passwords both strong and private.

Familiarize yourself with phishing scams, and make sure that kids in online school know what they are and what they do. And when it’s time for software updates, download them right away instead of waiting until a more convenient time. Software updates are often improvements to the security of the system. It’s also important to use encryption on your router to keep prying eyes away from your data streams.

Multiple Users

With so much being done from home, it’s become common for kids to share their parents’ setup. However, this can come with a lot of problems if the right steps aren’t taken to keep users separated. It’s important to have separate accounts with separate logins for each person who will use a computer. This ensures that kids won’t accidentally get into your files and cause any problems, and it allows a more secure environment for working remotely. It also means a more personalized experience for each user. And for parents, it allows the child’s account to be protected with parental controls as needed.

Parental Supervision

One of the things that can make your child’s experience the safest is to simply supervise where they go online. Be aware of the sites they are using and how they are using them. Kids can be tempted to try to make friends online, and they may give out more information than they should. Be sure to talk to them about what information they can give out and what needs to stay private. At home, you are a vital part of your child’s IT security. Take the time to take a look at what they are doing online regularly.

With so many people both working remotely and supervising kids in an online school, using the computer can be a source of friction when both parties need it. Having a set schedule of when each person uses it can be a helpful way to prevent arguments and ensure that both of you are able to get your work done.

If you need better IT security, call us today to find out how we can help. Your computer’s security is vital during these times of working and learning remotely. We can help you stay more secure and ready for remote work.
Multifunction Printers: How Far Does a Little Maintenance Go?
July 23, 2020 4:20 pm Leave a Comment
When it comes to multifunction printer maintenance, you may wonder if it’s worth the work. Let’s take a quick look at just a few printer pains that can be solved with a little regular TLC!

Doing Your Part

One of the best things about multifunction printers is that they’re user-friendly. They don’t require a lot of work on your part–but what they do need is a little bit of preventative maintenance to keep them fast, efficient, and powerful for years to come. Printer maintenance looks a little different depending on the make, model, and age of your machine, but the result is always the same: a reliable, high-performing multifunction printer.

The good news is that, when you keep up with maintenance, your printer will repay the favor. Here are a few issues you won’t have to worry about when you give your printer the TLC it needs!
- #1: Paper jams
Paper jams can have a lot of causes–but for the most part, they’re mechanical. Taking good care of your multifunction printer will help ensure that all those moving parts work together smoothly and reliably, which, in turn, will reduce the risk of a paper jam.
- #2: Splotchy documents
Do your documents end up covered in streaks, lines, or splotches? Chances are you’ve got an ink blockage or buildup. Regular cleaning helps make sure that ink stays where it belongs: on the page.
- #3: Software issues
If your multifunction printer seems to fight you at every turn, you’ve probably got software issues. To avoid this problem in the future, it’s best to add software patches and updates to your printer maintenance plan–that way, your machine is taken care of inside and out.

Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Need to create your maintenance plan? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta Strengthens Environmental Commitment With GREENGUARD Certification For AccurioWide Inks
July 22, 2020 1:54 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Strengthens Environmental Commitment With GREENGUARD Certification For AccurioWide Inks
Ramsey, NJ, (July 20, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, is pleased to announce it has achieved GREENGUARD Gold Certification for its AccurioWide inks in a move that underpins its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

For decades, Konica Minolta has been committed to sustainability across its global operations. Its environmental action plan, Eco Vision 2050, sets ambitious goals to reduce its carbon footprint and preserve the planet, while enabling customers to do the same. Products receiving the GREENGUARD certifications are scientifically proven to meet some of the world’s most rigorous third-party emissions standards, helping to reduce indoor air pollution and the risk of chemical exposure.

“Achieving the GREENGUARD Gold Certification for our AccurioWide wide format UV LED inks demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility and is one of the many ways we fulfill our mission to create value for society while contributing to a sustainable future.” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning. “As a global company, we are accountable to our customers to consider health and the environment as part of our product development process so they too can reduce their environmental impact wherever they can.”

In addition to maintaining low indoor emissions, Konica Minolta’s AccurioWide UV LED inkjet inks for sign and display printing offer the following benefits:
- Wide color gamut and high color vibrancy for dynamic results that impress and inspire
- Versatility to print on rigid or flexible media with accuracy and excellent adhesion to broaden the scope of possible applications
- Lowest ink consumption per square foot – the lowest on the market
GREENGUARD certification is provided by UL, a global safety science company that promotes safe, secure and sustainable living and working environments for people by the application of science, hazard-based safety engineering and data acumen.
Konica Minolta Launches Workplace Hub Pro
July 17, 2020 11:59 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches Workplace Hub Pro
Ramsey, NJ, (July 15, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), today announced Workplace Hub Pro, further strengthening its all-in-one IT offering to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Joining the Hub and Edge solutions in the next-generation Workplace Hub portfolio, the newly launched device combines powerful, smart office printing technology from Konica Minolta’s bizhub i-Series MFP range, with best-of-breed software and managed IT services – all in a single solution.

Designed with the particular IT needs of SMBs in mind, Workplace Hub Pro combines the innovative Workplace Hub software with high-quality bizhub® i-Series printing and scanning capabilities to deliver a powerful solution for the intelligent connected workplace. The advanced solution offers customers print and copy speeds ranging from 25ppm to 65ppm (pages per minute), and scanning speeds range from 100/200ipm to 140/280ipm (images per minute). Workplace Hub Pro also offers a comprehensive portfolio of features and applications including print and document management, cloud back-up and remote virtual public network (VPN) connection, and WiFi management to give users the convenience of working with a single provider for all their technology needs.

Konica Minolta’s customer research has shown the five biggest SMB challenges are an aging/non-scalable IT infrastructure, few or no internal IT management resources and knowledge to manage ever-growing IT environments and different providers, lack of storage and proper backup, low level of security and little transparency on costs. Recent developments of the COVID-19 crisis have created further challenges for customers, making remote access and collaboration a clear and urgent necessity for them. It highlights the impairments their work processes face by an inadequate and out-of-date IT infrastructure and the need for VPN access as well as smart IT set-ups.

“That’s why we believe in growing the Workplace Hub ecosystem – to relieve our customers of these challenges, and help them focus more on their business,” said Nick Pegley, Senior Vice President, Digital Workplace, Konica Minolta. “Smaller businesses in particular only have very limited IT resources at their disposal, so for many of our SMB customers, the Workplace Hub portfolio has been a true game changer with regard to their IT capabilities.”

These scalable, secure and reliable hybrid IT solutions integrate both physically and virtually even into the smallest office environment, providing digital work tools users require. With managed IT services accessible through these solutions, Konica Minolta can take care of all of its customers’ IT needs, allowing even small businesses to benefit from an IT infrastructure otherwise only accessible to larger companies.

Howie Flagler, Vice President of Spector Textile Products and Konica Minolta customer, explains: “Our company, like many small firms, struggles to keep updated with the rapid changes in IT. Maintaining aging hardware, tracking updates, license renewals, implementing upgrades and other tasks all become challenging. We realized that these functions were draining resources away from our primary objectives. Konica Minolta’s Workplace Hub, coupled with their IT managed services, allows us to focus on our business knowing that our IT needs will be managed effectively.”

Konica Minolta is constantly optimizing and redefining its services and solutions according to fast-changing markets and small businesses requirements, aiming to provide its customers with exactly the solutions they need. “Particularly in smaller businesses and organizations, printing, copying, faxing and scanning are still very much at the core of everyday business routines. Recognizing this need, we decided to provide the full scope of paper-to-digital and digital-to-paper work processing in a Workplace Hub solution, and so we built in the full IT infrastructure into our fully functional and powerful smart MFP bizhub i-Series,” Pegley added.

The set-up also allows for a seamless integration of information and business process management, be it digital or paper-based. To ensure the highest level of security, the IT solution and the MFP functionalities run on two separate systems. “Workplace Hub Pro is designed as the heart of our smaller customers’ intelligent connected workplace, simplifying both their IT and paper-based document processing. At the same time, it keeps capital as well as operational costs low and flexibility high, as customers pay a consistent monthly fee,” Pegley concludes.
Managed IT for Manufacturers
6:00 am Leave a Comment
Every industry has its unique needs, challenges, and goals. Only a certain kind of solution can keep up with all of these unique elements across so many different industries–and that’s exactly what you should expect from managed IT services. Let’s find out what managed IT can do for manufacturing!

A Real-World Look

It’s great to hear what a solution like managed IT services can do, but it’s better to see it for yourself. Sure, you could spend all day reading lists of benefits–but that’s not going to help you understand how this solution would adapt to your business, help address your concerns, and find creative solutions for all your tech troubles. Of course, the only way to do that is to talk to a managed IT provider.

The next best thing, though, is seeing how managed IT services work in real industries, for example, manufacturing. Here’s a real-world look!

#1: Workers can focus on their own jobs.

It’s hard to do your job when you’re babysitting a finicky computer or fighting with your company’s network. Managed IT allows manufacturing employees to focus on their tasks by taking the tech responsibility off their shoulders.

#2: Costs are reduced.

With so many moving parts in the manufacturing industry, it can be tricky to keep costs down–but with managed IT services, tech is one place where the budget will always be consistent. By limiting downtime, scheduling, and budgeting for upgrades, and choosing the best and most efficient solutions, managed IT helps manufacturers use their technology to make money instead of losing it.

#3: Security problems are squashed before they arise.

Managed IT services help manufacturers analyze their infrastructure from the inside out and identify weaknesses of all shapes and sizes. Proactive solutions help stop problems before they become problems at all–and the digital bad-guys are left at the doorstep.

Want to learn more about managed IT services? Contact us today for all the help you need!
Sharp Announces New Compact, Economically Priced Printers
July 10, 2020 12:30 am Comments Off on Sharp Announces New Compact, Economically Priced Printers
MONTVALE, N.J., July 9, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) announces two new models for its monochrome printer lineup. The Sharp DX-B351PL and DX-B352P monochrome printers are energy efficient and provide a compact footprint, combined with secure network printing, making them a perfect choice for printing in executive offices, home offices and restricted areas of the workplace.

The DX series printers deliver durability and low cost of operation, giving users flexibility and reliability when using the product. Developed with business users in mind, the DX-B351PL delivers one of the lowest costs per page available today, which is great for keeping office expenses under control. These models are also ENERGY STAR® certified with low power consumption.

Both models print up to 35 pages per minute and are equipped with automatic duplexing, Standard PCL® 5e, 6, PostScript®3, and direct to PDF printing capability. Users can be confident these models will deliver value and efficiency for any variety of common office uses. The DX-B352P model offers wireless connectivity as well as triple the paper capacity with an optional paper tray.

“The new Sharp black and white printers are designed to bolster our monochrome line. End-users have long wanted the great Sharp user experience in more locations within their office, and now they can have it with these exceptionally cost-effective printers. They will allow dealers to offer a broader range of Sharp products along with the guarantee of the quality and service Sharp is known for,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America.

Users will benefit from the DX-B351PL and DX-B352P simple installation process and easy-to-use keypad. The DX-B352P has an all-in-one toner/drum cartridge for efficient reloading of supplies. A compact design will allow these units to fit into small office spaces and is ideally designed for placement in executive offices or home offices.

The DX-B351PL and DX-B352P printers are available for immediate order. Shipments will be available at the end of July.
Managed Print: A Look at Print Audits
July 9, 2020 9:21 pm Leave a Comment
What is the first step of any great managed print plan? Simple: a print audit! Today we’re taking a closer look at print audits to find out what they are, how they work, and why they’re great news!

What to Know

When it comes to print audits–and all those managed print services you’ve probably heard about–most companies have three big questions: what, why, and how.

The “What”

A print audit is the first step on your managed print journey. It’s essentially an analysis of your entire print environment from the inside out–data, statistics, habits, strengths, weaknesses; you name it.

The “Why”

At first glance, print audits might seem stressful–but the truth is that, by revealing all of this information, a print audit helps you take control of your print environment and eliminate issues that impact security, efficiency, and budget. It also shows you where you’re excelling, so you can keep doing all the right things while working on your problem areas.

The “How”

Here’s how a print audit works!
- #1: Your print infrastructure is analyzed. This is where your managed print provider learns about the “bones” of your print environment–like the types of machines you have, the physical layout of the space, and which devices are connected to your network.
- #2: Next, it’s time to look at your budget. How much is being spent, what is it being spent on, and how often?
- #3: Finally, you get a closer look at, well, you. A print audit helps reveal your habits–good and bad–like print volume, color or black and white, security oversights, and more.
Once the print audit is completed, you’ll have all kinds of new data to look at and work with as you decide which new print solutions to implement, which machines to upgrade, and what habits to change.

Want to learn more about managed print and print audits? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta Announces AccurioJet KM-1e B2+ LED UV Inkjet Press
June 26, 2020 1:41 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Announces AccurioJet KM-1e B2+ LED UV Inkjet Press
Ramsey, NJ, (June 25, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), today announced the AccurioJet KM-1e digital color B2+ sheetfed LED UV inkjet production press, continuing its accelerated growth path within the industrial print market.

Since its launch at Drupa 2016, the AccurioJet KM-1 has been acclaimed as the top choice among B2+ production digital printing presses. Many leading commercial printers, direct mailers, online printers, in-plant print shops, publishing and book printing companies have benefited from multiple installations as a result of the world-class media versatility of Konica Minolta’s original LED UV inkjet technologies. The AccurioJet KM-1 has also realized a high quality that exceeds offset printing without changing the surface quality of the paper media, which has previously been considered impossible with digital printing presses.

Inheriting excellence from the AccurioJet KM-1, the AccurioJet KM-1e embodies infinite business expansion possibilities, from current business fields to more profitable businesses. Konica Minolta amplified benefits of the LED UV inkjet technology to maximize quality and printing capability on various types of media such as plastics, backlit signage, transparent film, foiled paper, metallic media, canvas and synthetic substrates. The AccurioJet KM-1e will continue to help customers pursue high value-added products where high-quality production, extensive media compatibility and personalization are required.

“We have attained a leadership position in the North American marketplace with our LED UV inkjet technology and finishing solutions, and we are proud to announce the AccurioJet KM-1e as the newest addition to our Industrial Print lineup of world class solutions,” said Bill Troxil, Senior Vice President, Industrial and Inkjet Printing, Konica Minolta. “Our customers will be enabled to deliver the best print quality and wide variety of substrates to their end user clients like never before.”

“Under our concept ’Igniting Print Possibilities’ we summarize our drive to solve customers’ and social challenges by the means of digital printing through further automation, integrated on-demand digital production and visualization of quality and operation. The AccurioJet KM-1e is a key pillar in ourstrategy to help our customers seize the many new opportunities digitalisation brings along, supporting the trend to switch from offset to inkjet printing in a fast-growing market,” said Toshi Uemura, Executive Officer, Division President of Professional Print, Konica Minolta Inc.

He added: “The main benefit of AccurioJet KM-1e remains its infinite expansion possibilities. It helps customers to unlock doors to new and more profitable applications. As just one example, we know from feedback that some customers are working more with agencies directly now thanks to the combination of world-class technologies. We can offer from high quality print through to varnishing and highly sophisticated decorative cutting for customer business expansions.”

Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1, often referred to as the “Swiss Army Knife” of printing for its versatility with substrates and applications, as well as its successor, benefits from Konica Minolta’s unique, patented technology that has overcome one of the fundamental challenges of inkjet printing – uncontrolled ink dot movement that reduces print quality and workable materials. The technology uniquely self-freezes ink drops upon contact with materials, resulting in superior color stability and consistency and excellent results with instantly dry perfect prints.

Visit our website for more information about Konica Minolta’s AccurioJet KM-1e LED UV Inkjet Press.
Lexmark GO Line™ Multifunction Printer Garners Top Awards
1:30 am Comments Off on Lexmark GO Line™ Multifunction Printer Garners Top Awards
Jun 22, 2020

Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced its MB3442adw multi-function printer, part of the Lexmark GO Line™ series, has been honored by Better Buys and PC Mag.com with coveted Editor’s Choice designations. The MB3442adw is a 42-page per minute monochrome MFP that offers duplex scanning, copying and faxing with the convenience of a digital touchscreen and built-in Wi-Fi, all in a compact footprint.

Better Buys Editor’s Choice Award
In selecting the Lexmark MB3442adw for its Editor’s Choice Award, Better Buys independently evaluated and compared the device against the competition on a range of criteria, including unique features, value to the customer, and price.

Better Buys commended the Lexmark MB3442adw for providing enterprise-level features— including extra-high-yield toner capacity, a 2.8″ color touchscreen, and strong security features—in a smaller, lower-cost device.

“The MB3442adw is a black-and-white MFP that targets small- and medium-sized businesses that need an affordable and efficient device,” said Melisa Pardo-Bunte, Editor, Better Buys. “It includes the strong security features that are present on Lexmark’s other devices. Some of those features include confidential print, user authentication, network security and document security.”

PCMag.com Editors’ Choice Award
After measuring overall performance, functionality and output quality in an independent lab test, PCMag.com, a leading authority on technology, honored the Lexmark MB3442adw with its coveted Editors’ Choice award.

PCMag.com describes the Lexmark MB3442adw as compact, quick and multilingual. “The light, compact Lexmark MB3442adw MFP is relatively fast, prints well, and supports high print volumes for the price,” said William Harrel, Contributing Editor, PC Mag.com. “This makes the MB3442adw a good value for any office south of the enterprise.”

The Lexmark GO Line™ series, which includes the MB3442adw, offers a broad range of devices for small workgroups that are impressively easy to use and maintain.

Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer, said, “We developed the Lexmark GO Line™ series to provide enterprise-level features on smaller, lighter devices designed for the SMB. We’re proud of this recognition from Better Buys and PCMag.com, and the tremendous response from customers using the Lexmark GO Line™ series of printers.”
The 3 Biggest Benefits of Document Scanning
June 24, 2020 6:02 pm Leave a Comment
Document scanning is a solution that comes with a long list of benefits–but you don’t need to read the whole list to see why so many businesses are giving up paper for good. Here are the three biggest benefits of document scanning!

What to Expect

When you first heard about document scanning solutions, you might have hesitated. How could something so simple be so powerful? Well, the truth is that scanning does so much for your business because it starts at the source: your documents. You might not realize it, but documents play a part in just about everything you do–communicating, marketing, finances, you name it. Naturally, then, any solution that deals with your documents inbound to make waves.

But what can you expect from this solution in particular? Here are the three most significant benefits of document scanning!

#1: Cost savings

Here’s the truth: paper is pricey. It hurts your budget and the environment–so why not kick paper to the curb and scan all your files instead? Digital documents are much cheaper to store and maintain–and, bonus, you don’t have to kill trees every time you create one.

#2: Efficiency

Physical files are challenging to organize and secure. Scanned data, on the other hand, can quickly and easily be stored right where you want them–and they can be neatly organized by date, name, keyword, and more. On top of that, you’ll have more tools at your disposal–like password protection and firewalls–to keep sensitive data safe.

#3: Flexibility

As the business world–and the world at large–changes, it’s important to stay flexible. Scanned files can be easily accessed, updated, shared, and utilized anywhere, which means remote workers and multiple business locations can all be on the same page.

That’s just the beginning. If you want to see more benefits of document scanning, contact us today!
Are Multifunction Printers Actually Efficient?
June 18, 2020 5:51 pm Leave a Comment
By now, you’ve probably heard a thing or two about multifunction printers and their efficiency. Sure, the machines themselves are efficient–how can they not be when they combine so many functions and features? But it might seem difficult to believe that this efficiency can carry through your entire workplace. Let’s take a closer look to find out the truth!

Efficiency in Your Hands

Here’s the deal with multifunction printers: they’re tools. Of course, they’re powerful and reliable tools, boasting print speeds and functionality that other devices can’t match–but they’re still tools. That means it’s up to you to utilize them in a way that will not only make you more efficient but your company too.

Here’s an example: imagine you’ve just bought a fantastic new multifunction printer. Now, imagine you use it exactly like your old printer. When you don’t take advantage of those functions, features, and new opportunities, a multifunction printer can’t be anything more than an effective machine.

So how do you put your multifunction printer to work boosting efficiency? Start by focusing on these areas!

Connectivity

First things first: make sure your multifunction printer is talking to all the other devices in your workplace. When everything is on the same page, you can use your printer to scan straight to email, store copies directly on your computer, and utilize cloud services.

Security

Multifunction printers open up all kinds of doors for security improvements. Take advantage of built-in tools as well as new insights and usage habits to understand better how you interact with your printer, how your printer interacts with your network, and where weaknesses might exist.

Day-to-day efficiency

Technically, you can just “transplant” a multifunction printer into an existing workflow–but why would you want to? A new printer is an opportunity to restructure your workflow around powerful features and functions, an “all-in-one” workspace where a print job can be completed from start to finish, and more.

Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Contact us today for all the help you need!
Managed IT Services: Tips for Choosing a Provider
June 11, 2020 9:23 pm Leave a Comment
If you’ve decided that managed IT services are a great fit for your business, congratulations! You’ve just taken a big step toward better security, communication, and efficiency in your business. Now there’s just one thing left to do: choose a provider.

Does it Matter?

Some companies aren’t sure exactly what role a provider plays in the managed IT services process, other than literally providing the service itself.

In truth, a provider can make or break the managed IT experience–which means it’s especially important to find the right one to work with. For example, if you choose a provider who isn’t interested in creating a partnership, you could end up with solutions that aren’t a good fit for your company, while a good provider will take the time getting to know your unique needs and challenges.

Quick Tips

So, now that you know how important a managed IT services provider can be, how do you choose a good one? Here are a few quick tips!

#1: Look for expertise.

This one’s twofold. Firstly, you want a provider who has been in the business long enough to be comfortable and confident. Secondly, you want a provider who is well-versed in multiple technology fields to answer just about every question you’ll ever have.

#2: Ask about flexibility.

Ask the provider how flexible they are. This is a big one because a flexible provider will be able to keep up with changing tech and make quick changes the moment that something isn’t working in your business, rather than being limited to one approach or set of tools.

#3: Prioritize proactive solutions.

A great managed IT provider won’t wait until the fire is raging to put it out; instead, they’ll work with you to make sure fires don’t start at all. Proactive solutions are a huge part of managed IT, so make sure they’re at the forefront of your mind!

Want to learn more about managed IT services or are you ready for a great provider? Contact us today!
What Managed Print Really Looks Like
June 4, 2020 8:19 pm Leave a Comment
It’s one thing to hear a long list of benefits about managed print, but it’s another thing entirely to see those benefits in action. Here’s what managed print services could look like in your business!

An Innovative Approach

It might be called managed print, but it’s not just about printing. This simple but powerful solution can help you address a little bit of everything, from the printers themselves to your tools and workflows. That’s what makes managed print so effective: it approaches your print environment as a complex, fluctuating ecosystem rather than just a room full of machines.

So how does the magic happen? Simple: managed print helps you focus on three main areas. Let’s see what this might look like in a business like yours!

Printers and Supplies

First things first: managed print helps you take a careful look at the printers themselves. Do you have the right machines for your needs? Is your fleet too big, or not big enough? Are you using the best settings?

Next, you’ll take a look at your supplies. By analyzing usage data straight from your printers, managed print can help you schedule and automate deliveries, so you never run out of what you need.

Workflows

Managed print also addresses your workflows by helping you see what’s working and what isn’t. With new tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to cut unnecessary steps, simplify communication, and streamline your whole work-life.

Security

Although managed print is, naturally, focused on print security, it also helps you see all the ways your machines and workflows are connected–and, thus, all the things you need to protect. Luckily, it’s easier than ever to identify weaknesses and implement targeted solutions with managed print.

Want to see what managed print can do for you? Contact us today!
In-House Scanning: What You Need to Know
May 27, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
Document Scanning is a great tool and a powerful security solution–but do you know what it takes to start scanning in-house? Let’s find out!

Savvy Companies, Savvy Scanning

Document Scanning comes with a long list of impressive benefits. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and easy to fit into your existing workflows–but even if it weren’t all those things, it would still be worth it, simply because it brings so many advantages to your company. Here are just a few things you can expect from scanning solutions:
- improved organization,
- stronger security,
- smother communication,
- more free space,
- and less environmental impact.
But how do you get started? What do you need to know? Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to in-house scanning!

Cost

The first thing you need to pay attention to is cost. Scanning is a budget-friendly solution, but you are paying the employee to do the scanning and fees for maintenance and repairs on the scanner itself. However, in-house scanning tends to be more affordable overall because you can control the details of the job and get exactly what you need precisely when you need it.

Security

Scanning is a great solution for security, both online and off. Scanned documents are easier to protect and to share securely; you can’t forget a document on the printer tray if it doesn’t need to be printed in the first place!

Efficiency

Getting started with scanning solutions will require a little bit of homework and careful planning. Still, once you take that first step, you’ll start to see immediate benefits to the efficiency and organization of your workflows, workspace, and the entire company.

Other options

If in-house scanning doesn’t seem like a good fit for you, there are always other options to consider–like a scanning service. They’re fast and effective, but remember that you’ll be giving up creative and organizational control on multiple levels–and the costs might be higher.

Want to learn more about in-house scanning solutions in Des Moines? Contact us today to get started!
Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress 6136P MICR
May 24, 2020 1:26 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches AccurioPress 6136P MICR
Ramsey, NJ, (May 21, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, is pleased to introduce a new addition to its product line-up – a MICR version of the AccurioPress 6136 – giving the 6136P product line a MICR toner and developer that will have significant impact on the financial printing market.

“While personal checks are on the downtrend, commercial bank checks are still in high demand, with usage in financial institutions, government agencies and educational segments,” said Dino Pagliarello, Senior Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “MICR printing represents a huge market with more than five billion checks printed annually.”

Konica Minolta partnered with TROY Group to help convert the AccurioPress 6136P to a MICR version, combining TROY’s patented MICR Toner Secure™ with its own proprietary developer bead. The toner has been extensively tested to ABA/ANSI standards. TROY Group is a worldwide leader in OEM MICR developed printers and has many patents on MICR Technology.

“Through our partnership with Konica Minolta we are setting the standard in production check printing solutions for anti-tamper payments,” said Michael Riley, Executive Vice President/General Manager at TROY Group, Inc. “We recognized the market need for a production solution to fill a void in the secure payment printing space. The AccurioPress 6136P MICR leverages Konica Minolta’s long history of print innovation and introduces TROY’s patented, MICR Toner Secure technology.”

TROY’s MICR Toner Secure, MICR developer and MICR fonts were designed specifically for use in the 6136P print engine to ensure consistent MICR quality and performance. The AccurioPress 6136P MICR combines exceptional speed and versatility with unmatched durability and reliability to deliver high-quality, tamper resistant MICR documents in high-volume production environments. TROY’s expertise in MICR toner development translates to consistent MICR character quality and the use of MICR Toner Secure guarantees The World’s Most Fraud Resistant MICR Toner™.

The biggest benefit of the AccurioPress 6136P MICR print solution is its print speed of 136 ppm and unique TROY MICR Toner Secure, a proven industry standard in financial check printing. The high-quality toner – engineered exclusively for the 6136 Konica Minolta engine – maximizes readability and makes toner scraping nearly impossible. Through patented security technology, red dye is released which voids the check if chemical alteration is attempted.

The printer can be specified to optimize print settings instantaneously, providing efficient paper setups with each job for up to 256 media profiles. Its 15-inch touch panel makes operating easy and affords greater visibility and operability. Operators can view and edit job tickets, create previews and print sample output to confirm results, allowing for output operations that are efficient and waste free. Advanced job management support simplifies output work and reduces labor costs.

Optional software available is AccurioPro VDP for variable data applications. The 6136P MICR production print device supports camera-based monitoring systems and document integrity software to ensure every piece prints in order.

Visit us online for more information about the AccurioPress 6136P MICR.
How to Fix Common Multifunction Printer Problems
May 20, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
Multifunction printers do a little bit of everything, from printing and copying to scanning and faxing. But what happens when they start causing trouble? Here are a few common multifunction printer problems and how to fix them!

Printer TLC

The good news about multifunction printers is that they don’t need a lot of babysitting. They’re intuitive and user-friendly, which means they can almost take care of themselves–but once in a while, even the best printer will need a little TLC.

Here are a few problems you might be facing with your multifunction printer (and how to fix them without breaking a sweat)!

#1: Paper jams

Paper jams seem like a simple thing, but they can be pretty darn frustrating. The best way to fix them is to check for a few possible issues. First, make sure paper is always loaded correctly into the drawer or tray. Also, be on the lookout for damage or debris like paper clips. If the issue isn’t here, you might be using low-quality or damaged paper–so try switching to a different brand or weight if problems persist.

#2: Connectivity issues

Multifunction printers play well with all the devices on your network, but sometimes they have connectivity issues. This can be the result of updates or accidental disconnects, so make sure to check IP addresses and network settings whenever you make a change.

#3: Low print quality

If you notice smudges, dark spots, or other imperfections on your prints and copies, you’ve probably got some cleaning. Low print quality is almost always the result of dirty glass inside the machine–and, if not, you might be using the wrong type of paper for your specific make and model.

Want to learn more about common printer problems? Interested in adding a multifunction printer to your fleet? Contact us today!
Managed IT in the Healthcare Industry
May 13, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
The healthcare industry is under a lot of strain right now, but there are specific tools and solutions that can make things easier–both now and in the future. Let’s take a look at the difference managed IT services can make!

Why Managed IT Services?

Managed IT services might look, at first glance, like the kind of thing that belongs in a big business or corporation, where people sit at desks and do most of their work on computers–but that’s not the case. In truth, managed IT is a perfect fit for businesses that look like that and businesses that look like everything else.

Take, for example, the healthcare industry. It might not be immediately clear how the two work together, but consider how much tech work goes on behind the scenes of a hospital or doctor’s office, and you’ll quickly come to realize that managed IT services can be a real life-saver (no pun intended).

A Closer Look

Let’s raise a magnifying glass and take a closer look at managed IT services in the healthcare industry!
- #1: Saying goodbye to bandwidth issues
Many healthcare organizations are making the switch to wireless, digital, high-tech solutions, which is great news for everything except their bandwidth. Managed IT can help eliminate systematic flaws and weaknesses to ensure bandwidth issues are a thing of the past.
- #2: Improving security
Security is critical in healthcare–and, luckily, managed IT is all about security. Introducing new tools and solutions while also managing risks and identifying weaknesses and managed IT services helps keep healthcare safe.
- #3: Creating personalized infrastructures
No two healthcare organizations have the same IT needs. With managed IT services, it’s easier than ever for doctors and hospitals to create, personalize, and implement brand-new infrastructures that will help keep workflows (and patients!) happy and healthy.

Want to learn more about managed IT services in and out of the healthcare industry? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta’s bizhub® Connector for Dropbox App Now Supports Dropbox Business
1:38 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta’s bizhub® Connector for Dropbox App Now Supports Dropbox Business
Ramsey, NJ, (May 12, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce the immediate availability of Dropbox Business for its bizhub product line. The updated bizhub Connector for Dropbox app now allows access to Dropbox Business from existing Konica Minolta i-Series multifunction printers (MFP) and Workplace Hub models using the MarketPlace platform, expanding front-to-back end office automation and streamlining office efficiency, productivity and collaboration. The app is a unique offering exclusive to Konica Minolta, clearly setting the company’s MFPs apart in an overly commoditized market.

The bizhub Connector for Dropbox app offers organizations increased security capabilities and much more visibility over MFP usage. Users can take advantage of Dropbox’s unique collaboration features, including the smart workspace, perfect for supporting a remote workforce. The Dropbox Business offering includes a choice of four different subscription levels, available through Konica Minolta’s dealer and direct sales channels.

From document management to workplace IT, office processes today run on an abundance of different systems and services, forcing employees to manage extremely complex workflows. Konica Minolta not only provides its customers with solutions for their digital transformation, but assists them in tailoring the solutions to efficiently manage and control these business processes, shaping their workplace of the future. The updated bizhub Connector for Dropbox app and additional Dropbox Business subscription levels provide additional advantages to Konica Minolta’s current MFP users as they have one organized place for all their content, can stay focused on their most important work and get coordinated across the team – all directly from the MFP.

“Providing tools for growth while reducing complexity is at the heart of our Connected Office approach, and the incorporation of Dropbox Business really differentiates our MFPs from others in the market,” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Digital Transformation and Emerging Technologies, Konica Minolta. “In addition to further enhancing our MFP capabilities, the immediate availability of Dropbox Business subscriptions will empower our SMB customers with a simple way to share files and keep those files synchronized, well-organized and easily accessible, expanding and improving on their digital-focused workplace of the future.”

Konica Minolta announced its partnership with Dropbox at its Dealer Summit in October, 2019 as part of its strategy to provide opportunities for dealers to align with leading companies in all areas that support SMBs and the workplace of the future. The company is committed to helping dealers serve their existing customers and win new business by supporting them to rethink today’s workplace and redefine the way organizations work.

“Dropbox is excited about forming a strategic alliance with Konica Minolta to help customers work more effectively with content and MFPs,” said Dropbox Head of Channel, Simon Aldous. “Konica Minolta and Dropbox will deliver best in class service and support to help organizations focus on the work that needs to be done and not the headaches of IT. With this partnership, customers have an opportunity to connect their MFPs to an industry leading collaboration solution to stay organized and connected to team members. Technology is an important investment for any organization and choosing a trusted advisor like Konica Minolta will help your organization stay competitive in your market.”

The updated bizhub Connector for Dropbox app’s advanced features support Dropbox Business as well as additional functionality. Visit the Konica Minolta MarketPlace for more information.
Managed Print for Architects: Building Benefits
May 6, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
Managed print services is one of those rare business solutions that allows you to “build” benefits from the ground up by putting you in charge of every change, solution, and improvement. Naturally, this makes managed print a great fit for architects–so let’s take a look at what can happen when you put the two together.

Architecture Challenges

The easiest way to understand what managed print can do is to see it in action–addressing and solving challenges. Let’s take a look at some printing woes that might crop up in the daily life of an architect:
- Scale. Almost all architecture work is large-scale in one way or another–even at the printing level. Some print structures can’t handle the demands of these high-complexity, high-speed projects.
- Format. Architecture doesn’t stay within the confines of the 2D world. Jobs often require different formats, and they all need to be compatible with one another to keep communication smooth.
- Media. Getting the point across, organizing a team, and managing information isn’t usually limited to one media type–which means print environments need to adapt to different papers, inks, and project types.
Managed Print Solutions

Now that we’ve seen the challenges let’s take a look at the solutions–managed print style!
- Scalability
No matter how intense a project or job might be, managed print can scale to fit. You get to mix and match solutions, so the benefits are uniquely yours.
- Adaptation
Have a new media challenge, a mobile device that needs to connect to the machines or a wide-format job? Managed print can help you choose all the right tools and machines for all your projects, both now and in the future.
- Creativity
The best part about managed print is that it doesn’t limit your creativity. Instead, it smooths out rough patches in your workflows and print environment to ensure that you can do a little bit of everything, and do it confidently.

Want to learn more about managed print for architecture? Interested in “building” your benefits? Contact us today!
Multifunction Printer Tips: How to Break Bad Printing Habits
April 22, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
Everyone has a bad habit or two, but bad printing habits can be especially destructive–especially considering they create huge expenses without your company even realizing it. Here are a few tips and tricks for breaking those bad printing habits!

Printing the Smart Way

Multifunction printers are remarkably forgiving machines. They do their job without needing much work from us–all while offering unrivaled power, speed, quality, and even security. However, multifunction printers can’t reach their full potential if you and your employees are unknowingly working against them with bad printing habits. To help protect your printers, budget, customers, and your company at large, it’s best to take a step back and examine what your habits are–and which ones need to go.

Here are a few examples to help get you started!

Bad Habit #1: Wasteful printing

This one’s easy. If you’ve got a quick “trigger finger” when it comes to hitting the print button, you’re probably racking up pretty high printing costs–often for no good reason.

Solution: Carefully consider every print job. Do you need to use color or use single-sided documents? Do you even need to print in the first place?

Bad Habit #2: Flawed printing

Flawed printing occurs when you use the wrong settings, the wrong paper, or the wrong loading techniques. This habit isn’t as wasteful, but it does result in some wear-and-tear on your machine.

Solution: Read the owner’s manual on your multifunction printer when questions arise. Make sure you’re using the right consumables and settings for the job; after all, a little work now can save you heartache later!

Bad Habit #3: Unsafe printing

Leaving documents on the printer or using unsecured machines are two things that fall into the unsafe printing category. This is a particularly bad habit, as it impacts the security of your employees, your customers, and your whole company.

Solution: Use all the security tools and features your multifunction printer has to offer–and never leave documents unattended on the printer tray.

Are you looking for more multifunction printer tips? Want to add a new machine to your fleet? Contact us today to learn about our inventory of Canon, Konica Minolta, and Lexmark products!
Managed IT: Quick and Easy Security Tips
April 15, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
You’re probably not likely to use the words “quick and easy” for any element of your security experience. However, believe it or not, that’s precisely what managed IT services can do for you and your business. Read on to learn some tips that are quick, easy, and great for protecting your business!

A Fresh Look at Security

At this point, we’ve all heard so much about digital security–document security, network security, passwords, firewalls; you name it–that we probably think we know what to expect. The details may change, but security itself generally looks the same.

That’s where managed IT services comes in to change the game. Rather than looking at security in the same old way, managed IT helps you find fresh new approaches to make security a living, breathing part of your workflow just like everything else. As your needs change, your security tools and features will change, too, meaning you can strike a perfect balance between protection and flexibility. You’ll never have to worry about frustrating security procedures again because they’ll always be designed to fit your unique needs.

Simple Tips

Here are a few tips straight from managed IT that will help you change your view on security while making quick, easy improvements!

#1: Make security a team effort.

No one person or team should be responsible for protecting your whole business. Instead, get the entire group involved and make every individual employee feel like an important gear in the security machine.

#2: Use backups.

Data backups are the safety net of the security world. No matter what goes wrong, you’ll always have safe copies of your files to fall back on.

#3: Choose effective tools.

There are a lot of approaches to total security–tools like user authentication, password protection, firewalls, virtual private networks, and more. Remember to choose tools that make the most sense in your business setting.

Want more security tips? Need some help from managed IT services? Contact us today!
Lexmark Extends Offering with New SMB and Enterprise Business Class Devices
12:45 am Comments Off on Lexmark Extends Offering with New SMB and Enterprise Business Class Devices
LEXINGTON, Ky., April 14, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the availability of 13 new devices, expanding both its enterprise and SMB/GO Line offering with 300- and 400-Series printers and MFPs that provide full business-class capabilities in a smaller footprint.

The devices launched today include nine new monochrome business-class printers and multifunction products, and four new small-workgroup color printers and MFPs for GO Line™ device partners and enterprise customers. Designed for small workgroups and small spaces, these new devices offer Lexmark partners and enterprise customers impressive productivity, with the capacity and durability for fewer interruptions. They offer print speeds up to 42/40 ppm (letter/A4) and time to first page as fast as 5.9 seconds.

“These new devices are light, compact and fast, offering the same Lexmark quality and performance our customers expect in a smaller, more condensed footprint,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “A steel frame drives durability and long-life reliability, while standard two-sided printing saves paper. The lifetime fuser minimizes maintenance, while Lexmark full-spectrum security helps protect your network and proprietary information.”

Lexmark GO Line™
Lexmark partners can now offer their customers new small-workgroup devices with the performance and features that support a wide range of user needs and imaging workloads while taking up very little space. These devices are available with monochrome or color output, and as single-function or multi-function machines.

Features include:
- Fast mono print at 40/38 ppm* (letter/A4) on the 300 series; 42/40 ppm* (letter/A4) on the 400 series
- Fast color print at 26/24 ppm* (letter/A4) on the 400 series
- Time to first page as fast as 5.9 seconds
- Duplex printing is standard on all models
- Fax and USB ports are standard on all MFPs
- All MFPs have a front USB port to print from or scan to a USB flash device
- 2.8-inch touch screen on all MFPs for ease of use
New enterprise color devices are smaller and lighter
The enterprise devices launched today provide bold, consistent color in a small footprint and are designed specifically for small businesses or workgroups. Built for reliability, performance and security, these devices print up to 26/24 pages per minute* and offer expandable input for longer print runs.

Features include:
- Smaller and lighter — 400 series color printers are 30 percent smaller and 20 percent lighter than the predecessor; the MFP is 50 percent smaller and 25 percent lighter than the predecessor
- Duplex printing and Wi-Fi are standard on all models
- Duplex Automatic Document Feeder is standard on the MFP
- All models have 2.8-inch (7.2 cm) touch screen with Cloud Connector apps included standard
- Install up to two optional 250-sheet trays
- Lexmark full-spectrum security features are standard on all devices
New enterprise monochrome devices are light, compact and fast
Light, compact and fast, these monochrome enterprise devices support output of up to 42/40 pages per minute, while an optional 550-sheet tray supports longer print runs. A 1-GHz multi-core processor powers through big jobs, and Lexmark full-spectrum security helps protect sensitive information.

Features include:
- First page of output as fast as 5.9 seconds, at speeds up to 42/40 ppm* minute (letter/A4) and scanning up to 96/92 images per minute* (letter/A4)
- High-yield cartridges, optional input tray, plus the reliability of steel frames and long-life components mean less downtime
- Duplex printing is standard on all models
Konica Minolta Wins Red Dot Award 2020 for bizhub® i-Series
April 11, 2020 9:33 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Wins Red Dot Award 2020 for bizhub® i-Series
Ramsey, NJ, (April 7, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), is pleased to announce its i-Series has received the Red Dot Award – one of the world’s most prestigious design awards – in the category of Product Design 2020. The award-winning products are the bizhub C360i/C300i/C250i (A3 color MFP series) and the bizhub C4050i/C3350i (A4 color MFP).

The bizhub i-Series combines printing with process efficiency to empower customers to organize, streamline and customize their printing landscape, while providing the tools to digitize workflows. With an innovative and intuitive user experience and powerful built-in processing capabilities, i-Series MFPs are able to provide secure access to a suite of cloud-based services and applications via Konica Minolta’s MarketPlace. This gives businesses the freedom to quickly tailor and easily harness each device’s capabilities. To ensure the highest security standards, they also offer a unique and comprehensive security system with an optional built-in anti-virus solution. Furthermore, with bizhub SECURE, different security levels can be set to protect device memory and network settings.

The awarded bizhub models are part of the larger MFP i-Series portfolio, recently expanded through the launch of the new bizhub C450i, bizhub C550i and bizhub C650i – three new color A3 MFPs offering a choice of 45 ppm, 55 ppm or 65 ppm print speeds, respectively. The new devices boast the same fresh, contemporary exterior design as the rest of the bizhub i-Series models. With great usability features, such as the exclusive intelligent media sensor that detects media weight and automatically corrects the media setting, they provide uninterrupted use while optimizing print quality. These latest models replace the popular and highly successful bizhub C458, bizhub C558 and bizhub C658 models – enhancing Konica Minolta’s offering in the segment with the addition of extended smart capabilities that embrace the way businesses are evolving.

“Digitization has not diminished the role of office printing devices or multifunctional peripherals (MFPs),” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Business Intelligence Services and Product Planning, Konica Minolta. “Our bizhub i-Series MFPs are smart, IoT-enabled devices that retain their traditional role for printing, copying and scanning while addressing market needs as businesses evolve and seek to bring together people, spaces and devices with data within the Intelligent Connected Workplace.”

Since launching in June 2019, the bizhub i-Series has attracted worldwide attention for its high quality and outstanding design. In addition to the Red Dot Award, the bizhub C360i/C300i/C250i also received the Good Design Award 2019 from the Japan Institute of Design Promotion (JDP), receiving praise for their “sophisticated design,” highly intuitive interfaces and user experience. The series has also been recognized twice by Better Buys, receiving its 2020 Innovative Product of the Year and Editor’s Choice Award for 3Q 2019 in its MFP category.
Healthcare Tools: Managed Print Services Helps Save Lives
April 8, 2020 6:00 am Leave a Comment
It’s not every day you find a business solution that can help save lives, but that’s exactly what managed print services does in the healthcare industry. Sound too good to be true? Here’s a closer look!

Healthy Printers, Healthy Patients

Managed print services are all about organization, efficiency, and reliability–which makes it a perfect match for the healthcare industry. By providing tools that help to store, search, save, and share files in different formats and across different systems, managed print can unify data in any healthcare organization and make life easier for patients and employees alike.

Here’s how managed print helps save lives, one document at a time:

#1: It emphasizes organization.

Organization is key in the healthcare industry, especially when multiple doctors or organizations are involved. Managed print helps create consistent organization techniques across all file types to keep data in line. Documents will always be right where they belong–which means no wasted time or money.

#2: It improves print security.

Printers are often the #1 target of digital criminals, simply because many organizations fail to protect them. This is an especially pressing issue in the healthcare industry, where sensitive patient information is handled every day. Managed print helps identify weaknesses in security procedures and works with healthcare professionals to create targeted, concrete solutions that won’t interrupt day-to-day functions.

#3: It cuts costs.

Managed print helps make printing easier, stronger, and more effective–which, in turn, cuts down on waste and makes everything less expensive. This means less wasted money for organizations and patients.

#4: It boosts efficiency.

Better print environments lead to better workflows, which, in turn, leads to better healthcare. An efficient environment creates a better experience for everyone, allowing doctors to focus on their patients and patients to focus on their health.

That’s just a peek at what managed print does in the healthcare industry. What can it do for your business? Contact us today to find out!
Konica Minolta’s bizhub® i-Series Honored with Better Buys 2020 Innovative Product of the Year
April 2, 2020 12:40 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta’s bizhub® i-Series Honored with Better Buys 2020 Innovative Product of the Year
Ramsey, NJ, (March 31, 2020) Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce its new bizhub C360i Series has earned Better Buys 2020 Innovative Product of the Year in its color MFP category.

Better Buys evaluates products both individually and compares them against the competition on a range of criteria, including unique features, value to the customer and price. Konica Minolta’s bizhub C360i series was one of only a handful of vendors chosen for this honor.

The bizhub C360i is part of the larger MFP i-Series portfolio. Designed to empower digital workflows more simply and securely, the new i-Series features a modern user interface with a fresh new look boosted with high-performance operation. The simple and intuitive menu layout is built to minimize the number of touches, followed by quick response functionality, so things get done faster. This new generation of bizhub color office units caters to the needs of businesses by servicing as a secure, smart technology hub to augment office connectivity.

“The bizhub i-Series is a significant milestone in office print technology. They serve as smarter printers that connect the workplace more effectively and securely, and we’re honored to be recognized by Better Buys,” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Business Intelligence Services and Product Planning, Konica Minolta. “The wide breadth of capabilities, coupled with best-in-class service, ignite new opportunities for productivity and innovation towards the future of work.”

Konica Minolta recently announced the expansion of its bizhub i-Series with the launch of three new color A3 MFPs. The new bizhub C450i, bizhub C550i and bizhub C650i offer a choice of 45ppm, 55ppm or 65ppm print speeds, respectively, and boast the same fresh, contemporary exterior design as the current bizhub i-Series models. With great usability features, such as the intelligent media sensor that detects media weight and automatically corrects the media setting, they provide uninterrupted use, while optimizing print quality. They replace the popular and highly successful bizhub C458, bizhub C558 and bizhub C658 models – enhancing Konica Minolta’s offering in the segment with the addition of extended smart capabilities that embrace the way businesses are evolving.

“The bizhub C360i Series represent Konica Minolta’s innovative new line of devices that encourage more collaboration and streamline workflows,” said Melissa Pardo-Bunte, Editor, Better Buys. “It has strong features, such as the customizable touchscreen interface, upgraded security and scalable finishing.”

See Better Buys’ full review of the bizhub C360i i-Series here.
The Future is Now with Document Scanning
March 27, 2020 7:51 pm Leave a Comment
Have you ever seen a really neat piece of technology in action and thought to yourself, “The future is now”? Well, that’s the truth when it comes to document scanning. This simple, pain-free solution can make a huge difference today, and an even bigger impact tomorrow.

The Future is Bright

Document scanning is one of those unique solutions that combine familiar, comfortable concepts with brand-new technology to create something truly futuristic. When you implement document scanning solutions, you are essentially adapting to your old techniques–like file organization, storage, and distribution–to the digital world. That’s part of what makes scanning so simple; it doesn’t have a huge learning curve because, at its heart, it’s a familiar concept.

Here are just a few more ways that document scanning helps bring the future into your workplace!

#1: Security

Today’s security risks are more sophisticated than ever, but so are today’s security defenses. Scanning allows you to turn your vulnerable physical files into digital documents that can be protected with passwords, user authentication tools, and access control.

#2: Communication

We may not have robot butlers who can do all our communication for us (yet), but we do have some great solutions to help make file storage, sharing, and distribution easier than ever. It all begins with document scanning–but where it goes from there is entirely up to you.

#3: Flexibility

Preparing for the future isn’t always easy, but one thing is clear: businesses are moving steadily away from paper. Scanning solutions help you get ahead by preparing for paperless, digital workflows.

#4: Compliance

Security rules and regulations are especially tight in the modern business world. Document scanning makes it easier than ever to stay compliant without interrupting efficiency, putting organization and security tools right at your fingertips.

Ready to see what else document scanning can do for you? Contact us today to get started!
Everything to Know About Multifunction Printer Passwords
March 20, 2020 4:58 pm Leave a Comment
In today’s day and age, passwords are more important than ever–but some companies still aren’t sure how to put them to work, especially when it comes to machines like multifunction printers. Here’s a quick look at everything you need to know about MFP passwords!

Powerful Passwords

Multifunction printers are a powerful and efficient addition to any company, but the last thing you want is for one of these devices to become a security risk. The truth is that hackers tend to start by targeting printers, simply because they know most businesses overlook this simple step.

Here’s how to change the password on your MFP:
- #1: Open the settings menu.
- #2: Go to “administrator settings.”
- #3: Enter your administrator password. (Your managed services provider may set this, or it might be on your MFP paperwork.)
- #4: Find “security settings.”
- #5: Go to “administrator password” and choose a new password.
What Now?

If you followed the above steps, congratulations–it’s time to come up with a password for your multifunction printer. Here are a few quick tips to help you make sure your new password is as strong and safe as possible.

Use phrases.

One-word passwords aren’t very secure. Phrases, however, are much more difficult to crack–and automated hacking tools that randomly “guess” passwords won’t be as much of a threat.

Avoid the basics.

Remember never to use words, phrases, or numbers that are too easy to guess–like your company’s address. Make it complicated and intricate.

Get creative.

Using different passwords for each level of access helps make sure that you have a “safety net” if hackers do gain access. It’s more for you to remember, sure, but it’s worth it in the end.

Want more multifunction printer tips? Need help resetting your password? Contact us today!
3 Signs It’s Time for a New Provider
March 12, 2020 6:00 pm Leave a Comment
Once you’ve researched managed IT services and chosen a provider, the hard part is over; you’re finally free to start reaping the benefits of this great decision. But what happens if something goes wrong and suddenly that provider is letting you down? Here are three big signs it might be time to make a switch.

A Word on Bad Providers

Managed IT services is a solution you can rely on. It does a little bit of everything, from network monitoring to cloud services–and, even better, it adapts to your company’s needs and grows with you every step of the way.

A lousy provider can change all of that in the blink of an eye.

The truth, unfortunately, is that managed IT solutions are only as good as your IT services provider. An inexperienced or dishonest provider will leave you with messy workflows, wasted money, and more questions than answers. You’ll start to wonder why you chose this service in the first place.

What to Look For

Here are three big signs your managed IT provider isn’t doing their job:

#1: No data backups

Data backups are a huge part of managed IT. If you’re not getting this simple but critical service, your provider isn’t interested in keeping your company safe and secure in the event of a disaster.

#2: No monitoring

24/7 monitoring helps keep your network, devices, and connections safe and efficient even when you’re not using them. Without monitoring, your business is being left vulnerable to all kinds of nasty surprises.

#3: No growth

Managed IT is all about growing your brand, your budget, and your company overall. If you’re feeling stagnant–or if the solutions are–then you know your provider is dropping the ball.

Worried you might not have the best provider? Looking for a better partner in managed IT services? Contact us today!
Konica Minolta to Exhibit at ISA Sign Expo 2020
1:18 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta to Exhibit at ISA Sign Expo 2020
RAMSEY, NJ (March 10, 2020) – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in industrial and commercial printing and packaging solutions, today announced its participation in the ISA International Sign Expo in Orlando, Florida, April 2 – 4.

Konica Minolta will showcase its range of wide-format products developed to serve sign making and graphics printing applications. Specifically, the AccurioWide 200 and AccurioWide 160 hybrid UV LED wide format inkjet printers that allow for printing on a wide variety of rigid and flexible substrates. This includes thin heat-sensitive styrene, foils and laminates, coated paper, PET, fluted polypropylene, soft boards and industrial film. The option to layer printing with color and white ink will give print service providers the option to create backlit signage with a high-quality look and vibrant colors.

The Konica Minolta AccurioWide 200 and 160 hybrid wide-format printers provide opportunity for those looking to expand their wide-format and sign business. The versatility of UV LED ink opens new markets for special and industrial printing with the ability to print unique sign and display jobs – or other applications such as small, 3D objects. The AccurioWide products also excel at printing on rigid and flexible substrates from 0.04 up to 1.77 inches. Loading media is a smooth and accurate process thanks to automated features of the media registration bar and the head height adjustment. The AccurioWide’s four-zoned vacuum system delivers equal or variable suction to ensure flawless media transport.

The instant drying time of the UV LED inks increases productivity and return on investment through time saved, allowing users to stack, cut or ship immediately. Other benefits include high image quality of up to 1440 dpi, low-ink consumption per sq. ft., Konica Minolta 1024i print head technology and powerful AccurioPro WideDirector workflow software.

For flatbed routing, creasing and cutting to complement the AccurioWide printers, the Colex Sharp Cut SX1732 flatbed cutter will also be on display. This product includes a fixed knife, oscillating knife and router, allowing for a multitude of applications for sign makers. Optional add-on tools are available to allow customers to customize the cutter to suit their specific needs and workflow.

“We know quality and cost are top of mind when evaluating technology, and we designed the AccurioWide series with its users’ greatest needs at the forefront. Our customers continue to marvel at the products’ unbelievable flexibility and capability to handle a wide variety of specialty applications,” said Dino Pagliarello, Vice President, Product Management and Planning, Konica Minolta. “For sign makers and print service providers looking to expand their options, our wide-format production printers are the latest in hybrid UV LED inkjet technology – the perfect fit for anyone looking towards innovation, and we look forward to engaging with the audience at ISA to discuss their applications and ideas.”

Free show passes are available to those who register for a product demo.

Event attendees can request a meeting with Konica Minolta production print product managers or visit Booth 3723 to learn more about its wide-format printing solutions.

Konica Minolta will also host a press breakfast and booth tour on Friday, April 3 from 8:30 – 9:15 a.m. Attending press can send an email to reserve their spot.

About Konica Minolta
5 Minutes with Managed Print
March 6, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Can any business solution start making a difference in just five minutes? Let’s see if managed print is up to the task!

The Power of Better Printing

Let’s be honest: no business solution is going to change the world in just five minutes.

But managed print doesn’t need to change the world. All it has to do is change the way you think about printing, your print environment, and even the machines themselves–and, believe it or not, all the great benefits will follow. It’s that simple. Better printing means better communication, better budgets, better customer service, and a better bottom line.

So how can managed print makes such a big difference in such a small amount of time? Let’s find out!

#1: Changing perspectives

One of the first things managed print does for you is changing your perspective. It helps you realize that your print environment, like the rest of your company, is a unique, powerful, ever-changing element–not some stagnant thing you should try to ignore. You’ll learn to be more flexible, adapt to new tech and solutions, and keep your print procedures modern–and all you have to do is take a minute to see your business in a new light.

#2: Changing information

In under five minutes, managed print can change the game just by giving you new data. Just imagine what you could do if you knew which machines were used the most (and for what), how often you print in color (and why), and where every single dollar was going. It’s possible with managed print!

#3: Changing security

Even with managed print, modern security isn’t a five-minute task–but you can get a pretty good start just by knowing where to look. Managed print helps you identify, analyze, and address weaknesses in your security protocols and procedures–and it’s so fast that you’ll start feeling safer right away.

What can managed print start doing for you in just five minutes? Contact us today to find out!
Scanning Solutions for Restaurants
February 28, 2020 5:18 pm Leave a Comment
Have you ever heard about an exciting efficiency solution, only to shrug it off because it’s branded as an “office solution” and probably won’t adapt to your restaurant’s unique needs? Look no further: scanning is here to save the day.

Why Scan?

At first glance, scanning solutions and restaurant business models don’t seem like the most obvious fit. After all, scanners seem to belong in bustling office buildings, tucked cozily into cubicles–so what good can they do in the restaurant scene?

The truth is that document scanning solutions are so flexible, powerful, and efficient that they can benefit companies in every industry–including your restaurant.

Sound too good to be true? Here are a few reasons why scanning is a perfect fit for the restaurant world.
- #1: Stop stacking.
Do you find yourself continually stacking papers around your workspace? Do files, folders, resumes, invoices, and other documents end up getting in the way when you’re trying to do something more important? Scanning solutions allow you to take control of your papers, turning all those stacks into orderly, secure digital documents that will never be in your way.
- #2: Get organized.
Chances are, your restaurant doesn’t have room for a whole fleet of file cabinets. Scanning helps you get organized the smart way–by giving you the tools to create consistent naming conventions, sort files by keyword or date, and even control who has access to what.
- #3: Worry less.
Scanned documents are easy to secure, track, and share–and automated tools help eliminate human error throughout the whole process. In the end, you’re left with organized, efficient documents, more free space, and a lot less stress–that way, you can focus on what really matters instead of panicking over paperwork.

Canon scanning solutions are a perfect fit for restaurants. Contact us today to see for yourself!
Lexmark Cloud Print Management Now Available to Partners
February 26, 2020 1:02 am Comments Off on Lexmark Cloud Print Management Now Available to Partners
LEXINGTON, Ky., Feb. 25, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, announces its Cloud Print Management (CPM) offering is now available to its channel partners. Lexmark has seen success with CPM among enterprise customers. By extending its CPM technology to the channel, Lexmark partners can leverage cloud technology to eliminate costly infrastructure and provide cloud-based, effortless secure print release to their customers.

Customers of all sizes are moving business processes to the cloud to simplify management, lower costs and enhance collaboration. With Cloud Print Management (CPM), Lexmark partners can provide that same level of optimization when it comes to print, eliminating the burden of printing infrastructure and manual, onsite management.

“Today’s print customers care about more than just the quality of the device or cost per page. Customers are focused on eliminating server infrastructure, implementing new technologies, and improving security – and now Lexmark partners can deliver this through Lexmark Cloud Print Management,” said Sammy Kinlaw, Lexmark vice president, Worldwide Channel and OEM Sales.

Lexmark’s cloud-based design is simple to deploy and easy to use, providing customers new levels of visibility and document security. Lexmark partners can help their customers adopt a stronger approach to document and device security, close document security gaps with secure print release, and access around-the-clock cloud server monitoring.

When combined with other managed offers, partners can leverage Lexmark CPM to dramatically improve service levels. Offering simple per-device, per month pricing provides customers financing flexibility and simplifies selling, while real-time analytics provide insights that help customers understand and improve end user behavior. In addition, easy-to-adopt technology can leverage the cloud providers and mobile processes customers have already implemented in other business areas.

“Lexmark CPM is a real differentiator for our partners,” said Kinlaw. “This true cloud offering equips them to provide higher levels of service more profitably through the cloud. It also aligns customer conversations with beyond the box initiatives.”

Lexmark enables partners to offer a complete suite of cloud services including Cloud Connector, Cloud Fleet Management and Cloud Print Management. Combined, Lexmark Cloud Services give partners a highly efficient, cost-effective platform, available through an easy-to-use portal.

Lexmark Cloud Print Management and Lexmark Cloud Fleet Management solutions were honored with 2019 Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab (BLI) Pick awards in the Document Imaging Software category.

“The Lexmark team works daily to bring our partners secure, reliable devices, differentiated capabilities, and tools to drive growth,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “Lexmark CPM is another example of our commitment to partner success.”
Konica Minolta Provides Industry-first MFP Document Security Solution
February 22, 2020 3:22 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Provides Industry-first MFP Document Security Solution
Ramsey, N.J. – February 13, 2020 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class business transformation solutions, continues to garner attention for its industry-leading bizhub SECURE Alert solution.

According to recent research by Keypoint Intelligence*, a top business priority among IT decisions makers for the next three years is to improve data and document security. As the first in the industry to provide essential document security for its MFPs, Konica Minolta has already earned recognition and reports heightened interest in its offering launched in September 2019.

“With the increasing concern about information security threats and data breaches, our bizhub SECURE alert service adds another level of protection against network and physical access risk,” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Business Intelligence Services and Product Planning. “The value and functionality provides levels of service no other provider can offer.”

bizhub SECURE Alert provides critical data and document security by notifying organizations when a security breach has occurred at their MFP due to unauthorized usage. It also provides a detailed and keyword-searchable archive (audit trail) of all MFP activities. Only Konica Minolta provides this advanced level of MFP security with this low cost, all-inclusive application.

When organizations are unaware a data or document breach has occurred, they are potentially left legally and financially liable for documents that are printed, copied, scanned, emailed and faxed. These data breaches at the MFP likely also expose an organization’s important trade secrets and intellectual property information as well as customer, patient, student, and employee data and personally identifiable information (PII).

“bizhub SECURE Alert solves the problem of organizations not knowing who used the MFP for what and when,” said Chris Bilello, Director, Business Solutions and Market Development, Konica Minolta. “As data breach incidents become more common, we are experiencing a rise in interest in the product from concerned companies wanting to get ahead of potential security issues.”

bizhub SECURE Alert was recently named a Platinum Award winner for “Best MFP Protection Solutions” by American Security Today at its 2019 ASTORS Homeland Security Awards.

bizhub SECURE Alert, powered by DocRecord by Prism Software, is an application that automatically processes Konica Minolta MFP activity records. It provides essential security for industries such as healthcare, government, financial, insurance, defense, education and corporations.

*2019 US IT Decision Makers Survey in SMB & Enterprise Markets, Keypoint Intelligence
Konica Minolta Expands Smart, Connected bizhub® i-Series Line
3:17 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Expands Smart, Connected bizhub® i-Series Line
Ramsey, N.J. – February 20, 2020 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in world-class printing technology, has expanded its new bizhub i-Series with the launch of three new color A3 multifunctional printers (MFPs.) The new bizhub C450i, bizhub C550i and bizhub C650i are a part of the next-generation multifunctional device portfolio designed to empower digital workflows. Like all models in the bizhub i-Series product line, the additions present a new paradigm for how multifunctional devices meet the needs of businesses by serving as a secure, smart technology hub to augment office connectivity.

The three new A3 color MFPs boast the same fresh, contemporary exterior design with great usability features as the current bizhub i-Series models. The new card-type quick copy screen and various applications with integrated guidance allow for an even better user experience. In addition, newly developed widget technology allows embedding and operating functionality directly from the MFP’s home screen, shortening the time spent in front of the MFP and ensuring familiar use across all bizhub i-Series devices. Similarly, high-performance operation and quick response are assured by the same powerful quad-core central processing unit, standard 8 GB of memory and 256 GB solid state drive (SDD), plus an optional 1 TB SSD.

The new bizhub C450i, C550i and C650i offer a choice of 45ppm, 55ppm or 65ppm print speeds, respectively. They replace the popular and highly successful bizhub C458, bizhub C558 and bizhub C658 models – enhancing Konica Minolta’s offering in the segment with the addition of extended smart capabilities that embrace the way businesses are evolving.

“These three new MFPs strengthen the bizhub i-Series product line, offering faster, smarter office print technology, and serving as intelligent printers that connect the workplace more effectively and securely. They continue to cultivate the future of work by tailoring to the changing needs of businesses,” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Business Intelligence Services and Product Planning, Konica Minolta. “The wide breadth of applications available through the pre-installed Konica Minolta MarketPlace, coupled with best-in-class service power new opportunities for productivity and innovation.”

These MFPs have also been designed to work with sophisticated workflow tools such as Konica Minolta’s Dispatcher Suite, layered by security options through bizhub SECURE services. This allows for businesses to have effective print management and advanced document workflow, while enhancing document security.

As an added highlight, the three new MFPs feature a dual-scan document feeder that can accommodate up to 300 sheets, with a fast 280 ipm scan speed. They also feature large, newly designed finishers with an integrated manual stapler. These new higher speed models also have an automatic intelligent media sensor that can detect media weight and automatically make the correct media setting, which can reduce misfeeds and help optimize print quality. This additional feature, unique to Konica Minolta solutions technology, provides uninterrupted use, increasing productivity, unmatched in the office print market.
Invest Smart for Disaster Recovery
February 19, 2020 7:42 pm Leave a Comment
Disaster recovery involves strategic security management efforts to protect data, information, and other business infrastructure from any possible disaster – from theft to flood. Disasters are always unexpected and can severely impact business operations at the time of the disaster and into the future.

Disaster recovery is an essential business tool because it is a plan to return to normal operations and revamp security. Partnering with a reliable vendor can help ensure that your disaster recovery will address any possible issue.

Online Security Solutions

Disaster recovery uses online security, cloud services, technology, and software to set up a plan that works best for your business. With a professional team assisting a disaster recovery set up, it’s simple to ensure your business is covered from all angles.

Standard disaster recovery plans include pre-planning, testing, and often backup and recovery solutions.

Why Disaster Recovery Matters

Anything can happen at any time – this is a reality that no one wants to focus on – yet, you do want to plan for. With disaster recovery, your investment in a solid plan could save your business in a significant event.

How can you make the smartest investment? Most disaster recovery plans include some combination of the following features:
- Physical depiction of network infrastructure, recovery procedures, and location of business materials and machines.
- Incident response plan
- Centralized contact information
- Explanation of which systems will be dispatched in a disaster.
- Media, communications, legal, and budget plans. The reality is that a disaster of any type is possible – from human error to natural occurrences, it just makes sense to be prepared.
How to Get Started

Disaster recovery is not something you want to put off, even though it’s easy to get caught up in the “not us” mindset. Being realistic will save you money and maybe even your business in the long run. Talk to the team today.
Managed IT Services for Small Businesses
February 13, 2020 8:29 pm Leave a Comment
If you’re part of a small business, then you understand that some solutions, tools, or systems just weren’t designed with you in mind. They’re called “one size fits all,” but they don’t keep that promise–and at the end of the day, you really wouldn’t want them to. Instead, you want a solution that scales to fit your unique needs, and that’s just what you can expect from managed IT services.

Why Managed IT?

There are all kinds of solutions designed with small businesses in mind, so why start with managed IT?

The answer is simple: tech is at the heart of just about everything you do–which means that tech solutions should also be there, waiting to help out. Technology is notoriously frustrating; you want to be prepared for anything it can throw at you–including security breaches, complicated network connections, inefficient workflows, and more.

Luckily, that’s where IT services come in. By analyzing your tech environment and suggesting specific, targeted solutions that fit your company managed IT makes itself an invaluable tool in an uncertain but ever-technical business world.

Here are just a few reasons managed IT is a perfect fit for small businesses:
- #1: It’s secure.
Small businesses are, unfortunately, often the targets of digital crime. Hackers assume you are less prepared than other companies. Don’t prove them right; instead, let managed IT help identify and address weaknesses in your defenses and security protocols so that you’re ready for just about anything.
- #2: It’s up-to-date.
Outdated information and obsolete technology are a pretty bad match. With managed IT, you’ll have access to the latest expertise and the best tech–which means you’re only limited by what you want to do with it all.
- #3: It’s flexible.
No matter where your small business goes in the future, managed IT will be there. By offering a wide range of flexible solutions, managed IT scales consistently to your unique needs and challenges–meaning that this is one tool you’ll never outgrow.

Ready to see what managed IT services can do for you? Contact us today to find out!
Making the Grade: Managed Print for Schools
February 4, 2020 3:58 pm Leave a Comment
Schools are all about teaching, inspiring, and encouraging students–but who’s there to help the schools themselves “make the grade” when it comes to efficiency and environmental friendliness? The answer is simple: managed print!

The Power of Printing

Many schools don’t realize that they have an unbridled power just waiting to be utilized. That power is printing, and it can do a lot for your efficiency, security, productivity, and staff and student satisfaction–as long as it’s managed properly, that is. Printing left unchecked can quickly wreak havoc on just about everything, especially the budget. Luckily, that’s where managed print comes in. By helping schools understand their print environment, take control of their machines, and create simple but powerful workflows without any extra steps, managed print can help you get an A+ in printing.

A Closer Look

Let’s see just how managed print works in schools like yours!
- #1: Better budgeting
School budgets are always changing, and more often than not, they’re pretty tight. Printing can’t be allowed to drain the bank. Managed print helps staff members understand where the money is going, which areas can be simplified or improved to be less expensive, and how to create better budgets for things like upgraded printers.
- #2: Flexibility
Education changes a little bit every day. Managed print helps schools keep up with every change on the horizon, from fluctuating enrollment to financial challenges to new technology, all without cutting corners or costing too much. It also helps schools come up with a solid print foundation, so they can be flexible without changing every little detail.
- #3: Organization
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by folders, filing cabinets, and stacks of papers lining the desks. With managed print, schools can change their habits to rely less on printing and more on digital communication, which means that the printers are used effectively and efficiently (and the stacks of paper get a little smaller every day!).

Ready to see what managed print can do for your school? Contact us today to get started!
How to Make a Document Scanning Plan
January 28, 2020 10:05 pm Leave a Comment
Although scanning may be one of the quickest, easiest, and most efficient document solutions currently available, that doesn’t mean it’s not going to take a little work from you. Here’s how to make a stress-free document scanning plan!

Getting Started

One thing you need to remember about document scanning is that it can get out of hand if you’re not careful. Of course, even low-quality or disorganized scanning is better than no scanning at all–but when you scan files, you’re essentially giving yourself a “second chance” to get and keep things in order. Don’t waste that second chance by failing to make a good plan–follow these simple steps!

Step #1: Organize

This is the first step because it is, perhaps, the most important one. Getting your documents organized beforehand can save you a lot of heartache in the future. Just make sure you have separate piles for “scan” documents, “store” documents, and “shred” documents (and don’t get them mixed up!).

Step #2: Understand the process

Make sure you know what to expect. Do your files need to be prepped in any way before the scanning process begins? How will your documents be ordered once they’re scanned, and what technology is being used to capture and index data accurately?

Step #3: Prioritize security

Security is vital through every step in the scanning process. Be sure to consider all your options, from user authentication to password protection.

Step #4: Organize (again)

Now that your files are all digital and easy to save, share, edit, and even delete, it’s time to organize them–again. This time, though, you’ll be organizing them for long-term use, so remember to use keywords, naming conventions, and sensible structures to keep everything neat and tidy.

Need help creating a document scanning plan? Want to get started with finding the right scanning device? Contact us today!
Lexmark Delivers Multi-Talented A3 MFPs for Medium Workgroups
January 26, 2020 12:01 am Comments Off on Lexmark Delivers Multi-Talented A3 MFPs for Medium Workgroups
LEXINGTON, Ky., Jan. 21, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the expansion of its A3 product line of devices with the availability of two new multifunction printers (MFPs), the Lexmark CX920de and the Lexmark XC9225. These new devices are designed to bring enterprise-level features and performance to the entry A3 market.

With many features standard, these new MFPs support demanding workloads through a powerful combination of printing, copying, scanning, faxing and optional finishing. Color output up to SRA3/12×18 makes a big impression, while thoughtful engineering drives endurance and minimizes interruptions to keep the work moving. These A3 devices are an ideal choice for medium workgroups that need a flexible MFP that can do it all. Their larger-format output and integration with the full portfolio of Lexmark-exclusive features and services also complement the capabilities of existing A4/letter fleets.

Multi-format output – Color output up to SRA3/12×18 makes a big impression, while additional optional paper trays allow A4/letter-size printing and a multipurpose feeder takes small envelopes. Among the wide range of media types accepted are card stock, glossy stock, recycled paper, transparencies and labels.

High-capacity production yields – Genuine Lexmark toner cartridges print up to 18,500 black or 11,500 color pages, while developer units go up to 600,000 pages for impressive uptime 1,2.

Speedy scanner — Duplex automatic document feeder (ADF) holds 100 sheets and supports scanning at up to 160 sides per minute. Support for mixed originals, page-level jam recovery, standard OCR, and a “classify and route” option fulfill the highest-speed automated scanning requirements.

Intuitive color touch screen – The large 10-inch class color touch screen with next-generation e-Task interface features an ultra-smooth surface and can be activated by almost anything, including pens, fingertips or nails—without pressure or direct skin contact. The modern interface is familiar to users, minimizing the need for training.

Software solutions – User experience and productivity can be enhanced with included solution applications, and devices can be customized via optional apps tailored to a specific need or industry. With available software development kits, customers can create apps of their own. Lexmark smart MFP adaptability future-proofs the investment.

Finishing options — Finishing options include multi-position stapling, hole punch, booklet, saddle stitch, and trifold. The finisher raises output capacity to 3,500 sheets.

“Lexmark is pleased to offer these additions to our award-winning product portfolio,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “These new products provide the reliability, security and ease of use that helped Lexmark achieve the highest laser hardware volume growth in the industry, according to IDC’s 3 latest 2019 measures.”

Saladin added, “Lexmark extends our customers’ hardware investment with a fleet that lasts longer, enables users to get the job done efficiently, and simplifies fleet management by taking the guesswork out of upgrades and upkeep.”
Multifunction Printers: Lease or Buy?
January 23, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
You’ve done a lot of work to get to this point. You’ve researched every multifunction printer out there, you’ve analyzed your company’s current and future needs, and you’ve chosen the right machine–but there’s one more step: getting it. Today we’ll make that last step just a little easier by going over your options (and which is best for your budget).

Leasing vs. Buying

The final step in the process of getting a new multifunction printer is perhaps the most important one. After all, you wouldn’t want to spend so much time and do so much work finding that perfect machine, only to make the wrong choice at the very end and be forced into something that doesn’t work for you.

Luckily, it’s easier than you might think to be sure you’re making the right choice. Just spend a little time considering the pros and cons!

Leasing

Pros: When you lease a multifunction printer, you don’t have to worry about the initial cost; you get to structure your payments in a way that works for you–plus, a maintenance plan is usually included. You also don’t have to worry about losing money on a machine that may become outdated within just a few months.

Cons: Leasing is generally more expensive in the long-term. You also end up locked in to a specific contract–and, although some leases allow you to upgrade to a newer or more efficient device without breaking any terms, options like that may be more expensive.

Buying

Pros: Buying a multifunction printer means you save money in the long run–and that you get at least some of that money back when it’s time to upgrade. You’re also in charge of every detail, including the “when” and “how” of maintenance and repairs.

Cons: The upfront costs of buying are high. On top of that, you’re financially responsible for everything that happens to the multifunction printer throughout its life–and, of course, you’re on the hook for every little decision that must be made.

So, should you lease or buy your multifunction printer? Contact us today for help making this big choice!
The Biggest Benefits of Managed IT Services
January 16, 2020 10:16 pm Leave a Comment
Managed IT is powerful and promising–but it comes with so many benefits that you might find it challenging to know exactly what this solution can do for you. Today, we’ll cut the jargon and focus on what matters most: the most significant benefits of managed IT services.

Don’t Sweat the Details

You care about your business and the people who keep it up and running, so naturally, you want to know every little detail about the solutions you choose. That’s a good thing–but it can be a huge responsibility.

The great thing about managed IT services is that it allows you to take a break from that responsibility for a little while. Once you’ve chosen a provider who understands your needs and offers reliable, professional service, you can rest assured that everything is being taken care of. This means you’re free to focus on what matters most to you (even if that happens to be your tech). The little stuff takes place “behind the curtain,” keeping your IT safe, efficient, and dependable while you work on expanding your brand, connecting with your customers, and finding the next big thing.

Big Benefits

Of course, while managed IT services allows you to shrug off the details, there are a few big benefits you won’t want to forget. Here’s a closer look!

#1: Expertise

You don’t have to have all the answers; your managed IT provider has them for you! Instead of scouring the owner’s manual or struggling with a search engine, your provider will quickly, efficiently, and reliably help you solve IT issues big and small.

#2: Dependability

Managed IT services are up and running 24/7. That means your data, machines, and connections will be secured continuously–but it also means you’ll have help available whenever you need it.

#3: Cost-efficiency

Tech is expensive. Managed IT services help you track costs, manage budgets, schedule upgrades, and generally keep track of your spending–all while finding stress-free ways to save.

Want to learn more about IT services? We’re here to help. Contact us today!
Sharp Earns Astounding 14 Buyers Lab Winter 2020 Pick Awards
1:40 am Comments Off on Sharp Earns Astounding 14 Buyers Lab Winter 2020 Pick Awards
MONTVALE, N.J., Jan. 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today announces that Sharp has earned a total of 14 Pick awards for Winter 2020, the most Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab 2020 Pick awards in the Copier MFP category compared to all other competitors. Every color model, from 26 ppm – 60 ppm, as well as every tested monochrome model within the same speed range, earned top awards.

In addition to the 12 highly coveted Pick awards for Color/Monochrome Copier MFPs, Sharp was also honored with 2 additional Pick awards in the Color/Monochrome Printer MFP category. Recently, Sharp also received a 2020 Outstanding Achievement in Innovation Pick Award for its Synappx™ family of smart office software solutions. Additionally, Sharp is the current holder of the 2018 – 2021 Buyers Lab Most Reliable Monochrome Copier MFP Brand, which is presented to one manufacturer every three years.

“These prestigious awards signify Sharp’s leadership in both hardware and software in the digital imaging and smart office markets,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We are proud of the strong start of this next decade with our recent win of the most pick awards for Winter 2020.”

Presented in Winter 2020 by the world’s leading authority on document imaging devices and software applications, Buyers Lab’s highly sought-after Pick award recognition is given to the multifunction printer (MFP) models that are deemed best overall based on its rigorous two-month laboratory evaluations. Among the many factors considered are reliability, image quality, productivity, ease of use, a host of connectivity attributes and overall value.

“We ran over one million impressions on Sharp copier MFPs this season, to exceptional overall results,” said George Mikolay, Associate Director of Copier MFP/Production Analysis, Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab. “As a whole, productivity results were better than other competitors. Strong reliability and above average maximum paper capacities mean less downtime for users to clear misfeeds or refill paper drawers. IT administrators will love the web user interface’s intuitiveness and search and shortcut functionality. And Sharp’s ‘know one, know all’ approach means users of the drivers and control panel will enjoy the same very good overall usability regardless of which machine is close to their particular workspace.”

Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab Winter 2020 Pick Awards:
- Outstanding Color MFP for SMBs
  - Sharp MX-C304W
- Outstanding MFP for Mid-Size Workgroups
  - Sharp MX-B476W
- Outstanding Color Copier MFP
  - 26ppm Sharp MX-2651
  - 30 ppm Sharp MX-3071
  - 35 ppm Sharp MX-3571
  - 40 ppm Sharp MX-4071
  - 50 ppm Sharp MX-5071
  - 60 ppm Sharp MX-6071
- Outstanding Monochrome Copier MFP
  - 26 ppm Sharp MX-M2651
  - 30 ppm Sharp MX-M3071
  - 35 ppm Sharp MX-M3571
  - 40 ppm Sharp MX-M4071
  - 50 ppm Sharp MX-M5071
  - 60 ppm Sharp MX-M6071
- 2020 Outstanding Achievement in Innovation Award
  - Sharp Synappx™ Smart Office platform
- 2018 – 2021 Most Reliable Monochrome Copier MFP Brand
  - Sharp Monochrome Copier MFP Line
Lexmark Retail to Showcase latest Innovations in Print and Digital Signage Solutions at NRF 2020 Vision
January 15, 2020 1:20 am Comments Off on Lexmark Retail to Showcase latest Innovations in Print and Digital Signage Solutions at NRF 2020 Vision
LEXINGTON, Ky., Jan. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ —Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that they will be showcasing their award-winning printers and solutions that are designed with retail in mind at NRF 2020 Vision, Retail’s Big Show and Expo, Jan. 12 to 14, at the Jacob K Javits Center in New York. Lexmark will be located in booth 5637.

“Complicated, paper-based processes slow things down and make it difficult for retail employees to spend time on the sales floor with customers,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “NRF 2020 is the perfect opportunity for Lexmark subject matter experts to interact with customers and to demonstrate how these retail devices and solutions can add real value and extend the lifetime of their investment.”

Lexmark retail experts will be on hand to showcase products that help streamline paper-based processes in retail. Lexmark offers decades of retail expertise combined with world-class devices, retail-specific solutions and industry-leading services to help our customers achieve their goals.

2020 vision: Retail seen clearly
Here’s what will be on display at this year’s show in Lexmark booth 5637:
- A single signage platform that gives you the right blend of control and creativity for engaging, effective signs that sell.
- Solutions that automate and streamline processes to enable next-level productivity.
- Printers built for retail environments that are engineered to last longer than industry norms.
- Cutting-edge cloud technology and managed print services designed to simplify management and provide complete insight.
- Built-in security that drives greater protection across your enterprise.
Is Managed Print Good For the Environment?
January 8, 2020 7:00 am Leave a Comment
It’s not every day that you find a business solution just as good for your wallet as it is for the environment, but that’s exactly the case when it comes to managed print. What’s so unique about this solution? Read on to find out why managed print might be your company’s new best friend.

Going Green the Smart Way

There are lots of ways to go green–some of them even fast, efficient, and painless for your business. However, the problem with going green is that many companies see it as a choice between the environment and their bottom line. The good news is that, as we develop new solutions and technologies, that viewpoint is slowly but surely changing–and with options like managed print, it’s possible to go green and save green at the same time.

To prove it, let’s take a look at some of the “greenest” things about managed print:
- less waste, which means less printing, less use of consumables, and less energy consumption;
- better digital solutions, allowing you to say “no” to the print button;
- more effective use of consumables, like double-sided printing;
- recycling techniques, especially when it comes to ink and toner cartridges;
- cost-effective fleet management, which means identifying and eliminating machines that are outdated or inefficient so you can replace them with cheaper, greener devices;
- and smarter supply storage, so you don’t order more than you need or accidentally waste anything.
Notice a pattern? Everything good for the environment is also good for your efficiency, budget, productivity, and even customer service. Now that’s a multitasking solution!

Ready to see how managed print can help you go green and save green? Contact us today!
Things You Might Not Know Your Multifunction Printer Can Do
December 18, 2019 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Multifunction printers can do a little bit of everything–fax, copy, print, scan; you name it. However, did you know there are even more features and functions that you might not be taking advantage of? Let’s get a closer look!

MFP Secrets

Your multifunction printer doesn’t necessarily have “secrets;” it just has a long, intricate list of amazing functions–so many that you probably don’t know every single one. Of course, to get the most out of your machine, it’s smart to brush up on all the little details. You already know your MFP can handle high-speed, high-volume jobs, can copy at high resolutions, can connect to your other machines, and can substantially boost efficiency and security across your company. But what else can it do?

Let’s find out!

Finishing options

Did you know your multifunction printer can help you do a job and finish it too? Whether you need to fold, staple, or bind, your loyal MFP is right there to help you out. (These features make for professional, high-quality documents and reports that will impress just about anyone!)

Efficient scanning

Get the most out of your document scanning features by connecting your multifunction printer right to your computer, your mobile device, or even the cloud for convenient cloud backup. This little trick cuts out all kinds of extra steps and makes it easier to edit, share, and secure your digital documents.

Answering machine

Believe it or not, on top of everything else it can do, your multifunction printer can also answer the phones! By utilizing your machine’s fax capabilities, you can set up “answering machine” features that forward calls to the right person every time.

Do you have multifunction printer questions? We can answer them all. Contact us today for all the help you need!
Your Outsourcing Questions, Answered
December 13, 2019 7:45 pm Leave a Comment
In today’s day and age, outsourcing certain IT services–like print management, document management, cloud backup, and even network management–is becoming all the rage. Some companies, though, still aren’t sure. How can you find someone trustworthy enough to handle something so important? What if you still want to keep some control? Today we’ll answer all these questions, and more so you can feel confident choosing managed IT services.

A Great Team

The most important thing to remember about any managed service–but especially managed IT–is that you’re not just hiring some stranger to do your work for you. Instead, by outsourcing, you are essentially choosing a teammate–a partner who will work with you to learn your company, your needs, and your goals to offer the most reliable service. A good provider will listen, answer your questions, and always take your opinion into account, so you never have to get out of the driver’s seat (unless you want to, of course). On top of that, managed IT solutions often implement data-tracking tools and services, so you’ll always be able to make the most informed decisions about your tech.

Outsourcing Questions

Now that you know what managed IT is all about, it’s time to answer your questions about actually making this big choice.

#1: “Is it worth it?”

The simple answer is yes. Outsourcing your IT is cost-effective, secure, and efficient, and it helps take the load off you and your employees, so you never have to worry about having access to reliable tech.

#2: “Is it reliable?”

One of the great things about managed IT services is that you’ll be in contact with experts who can answer questions and solve problems 24/7, every day of the year. You’ll never be left on your own.

#3: “How does it work?”

Your managed IT provider will come in to learn about your business and your needs, and then begin offering suggestions and solutions based on your habits, challenges, and goals. From there, it’s up to you what direction you want to take the service and benefits.

Ready to see what managed IT services can do for you? Contact us today!
The Power of Scanning for Law Firms
December 6, 2019 7:00 am Leave a Comment
Scanning is a dispensable tool for companies in every industry, but it is, perhaps, even more, essential for law firms. Why is this? Today we’ll take a closer look–and also explore a simple tool that can help you make the most of document scanning solutions.

Scanning Simplicity

The best thing about scanning is that it’s simple. No need for high-tech software or exhausting learning curves; all you need to do is organize your physical documents, put them through the scanner, and then organize them again on the other side! While this is excellent news for all kinds of companies, it’s especially important for law firms, who can always benefit from less paperwork and more organization.

What’s even better is that there’s a tool available (and sometimes built-in on specific scanners) that can take your scanning to the next level: optical character recognition. Rather than just making your physical files into digital documents, scanners with OCR can actually read and decipher them, and then organize, store, and secure them accordingly. You get all the benefits without having to do any of the work.

Why Scan?

So, now that you know the basics, why should you integrate scanning solutions with OCR in your law firm? Let’s find out!

#1: Searching

Once you’ve scanned a document with OCR, it becomes fully searchable. You can search for any word, phrase, or sentence to pull the file right up–and that saves a lot of time hunting through file cabinets.

#2: Saving

Scanning saves the day when it comes to human error. By automating the process with OCR, you don’t have to worry about someone entering data wrong or putting files in the wrong place; instead, things will be right every time.

#3: Communicating

With scanning solutions, you never have to worry about different file formats again. The software helps you transition from one format to another smoothly and painlessly–which means communication is also smooth and painless!

Want to learn more about scanning and optical character recognition? Contact us today to get started!
What Managed Print Does For Your Budget
November 29, 2019 7:00 am Leave a Comment
By now, you probably know that managed print can do all kinds of great things for workflows, efficiency, and even customer service–but let’s be honest: you want to know what it does for your budget. Today we’ll focus exclusively on your bottom line and how managed print services helps save money (and maybe even make more of it!).

A Money-Friendly Solution

Managed print isn’t “all about saving money,” and that’s what makes it so great at saving money. Think of it this way: when you’re focused specifically on your budget, agonizing over every dollar, it’s way easier to miss the root of the problem. When you take a few steps back and address the bigger picture, though–like your entire print environment–you’re able to see exactly where your money is going, what needs to change, and what you can do about it. That’s why managed print might be your budget’s best friend.

Let’s take a look at managed print in action!
- Controlling supplies
Ordering, storing, and using supplies can drain your budget. Managed print helps you analyze and control every step of the process, so you’re not wasting anything–dollars or paper.
- Improving workflows
Do you have extra steps in your workflow that are wasting time? Could you make things simpler and faster to save money? If there are places you could improve, managed print will find them–and, even better, it will help you address them.
- Helping employees
Solutions that save money for your company and are great news for your employees are the best kind of solutions. With managed print, it’s easy to implement new tools and even automation solutions that will make your employees happy and your budget even happier.

Ready to see what managed print can do for your budget? Contact us today!
Multifunction Printer Tips: When Do You Update Drivers?
November 21, 2019 4:34 pm Leave a Comment
Multifunction printers can scan, copy, fax, print, and do all sorts of other amazing things, all with almost no effort on your part–but every once in awhile, they do need some help from you. Here’s a quick guide on how to know when it’s time to upgrade your printer drivers!

What is a Printer Driver?

Multifunction printers are powerful and capable. They can communicate with computer programs, read and print data from a variety of sources, and even send faxes straight to your email–but the one thing “behind the scenes” that are making all of this possible is the printer driver.

Printer drivers are the software installed on your printer, whether it be Canon, Konica Minolta, or Lexmark, that makes it able to speak the same language as any computer program it encounters, which, in turn, allows it to convert data to a usable form. Naturally, this makes printer drivers a pretty important piece of the puzzle!

When Should You Update?

Now that you know what a printer driver is, here are some big signs that it’s probably time for an update.

#1: When documents are going missing

If you send a document to the printer from your computer only to find that it is lost in space, the chances are high that your printer driver didn’t do its job. Time for an update!

#2: When the printer isn’t connecting

Sometimes multifunction printers have connectivity issues, and that’s normal–but if your printer never seems capable of communicating with other devices, that’s a big sign that the driver is out of date.

#3: When your prints look terrible

Low-quality images, grainy text, or just plain bad prints and copies mean that something is seriously wrong. Don’t keep wasting money on reprints; instead, check your driver.

Want to learn how to update a driver? Interested in more multifunction printer tips? Contact us today!
What to Ask a Managed IT Provider
November 14, 2019 11:38 pm Leave a Comment
Managed services come in all shapes and sizes–document, print, IT services, you name it. They have a few things in common, like prioritizing security and designing their solutions to fit your unique company–but one thing you need to remember about all IT managed services is that they’re only as good as the provider you choose. With that in mind, here are some questions to ask a potential IT managed services provider!

Why Managed IT?

Despite being one of many managed services, managed IT is truly unique. It takes stock of your entire business, learning about who you are and what you do, and then gets even closer to understand how your IT infrastructure influences your business identity. Armed with this perspective and awe-inspiring attention to detail, a managed IT services provider can help you choose big-picture solutions and implement far-reaching changes, just by diagnosing and analyzing weak points in your IT processes. Technology is, in many ways, the heart of your company, and managed IT is the health plan that keeps it beating.

Big Questions

Here are some questions to ask a potential managed IT services provider!

#1: “Who are you?”

This is a broad question–and here, that’s a good thing. You want to learn who is on the managed IT team, what kind of experts you could have at your disposal, and how exactly the provider operates as a whole. You also want to learn how they think about and treat their clients–especially when it comes to customer service.

#2: “How do you approach IT issues?”

The answer you’re looking for here is “proactively.” If the provider doesn’t prioritize a good foundation and streamlined processes over basic damage control, then you know it’s probably not a good fit.

#3: “Can you help us grow?”

A managed IT provider should be able to choose tools and solutions that enable you to handle the increasing demands and new tasks that are associated with existing growth. Still, those tools and solutions should also help you grow even more. If it’s just about “keeping up,” then you might want to work with someone else.

Looking for a managed IT services provider who fits perfectly with your company? Contact us today to get started!
How Does Scanning Save Money?
November 7, 2019 9:26 pm Leave a Comment
In a world full of fast, efficient, and tech-savvy business solutions, document scanning can often get overlooked–and that’s a real shame. After all, the truth is that scanning has all kinds of tricks up its sleeve for saving money, boosting efficiency, and making your company stronger and more customer-friendly than ever.

You Can Bet on Document Scanning

If document scanning seems like a fast, simple, and inexpensive solution to a lot of big problems, that’s because it is. Take, for example, a stack of papers that’s sitting on top of an overflowing file cabinet. All of that disorganization represents a lot of wasted time, money, and energy–things that your company values. Instead of implementing a whole host of complex, interconnected solutions to address that unsightly pile of paper, scanning allows you to prioritize and reorganize–and just like that, you can turn messy stacks into orderly digital files.

Here are just a few more reasons you can always bet on scanning!
- It’s smart.
Today’s document scanners may not look as high-tech as a smartphone or a giant, impressive production printer, but they can still offer the same kind of advanced technology. Canon scanners are so smart that they can turn your physical files into searchable digital files with text that can be copied, made into keywords, and used to fill out forms automatically. (You’ll save money just by saving time!)
- It’s creatively budget-friendly.
Scanning improves your customer service by boosting productivity and cutting down on confusion. It helps you cut down on paper-reliance. It even allows you to save money on file storage–so, at the end of the day, scanning is just a simple solution with incredibly far-reaching benefits.
- It’s fast.
Once you’ve organized your files and set up your scanner, there’s not much work for you to do. The machine takes care of almost everything–which means you can spend your time organizing, strengthening your new digital workflows, and creating new printing rules that encourage employees to try online tools first.

Want to see firsthand how scanning can save money? Contact us today!
How Managed Print Saves You Money
October 24, 2019 5:13 pm Leave a Comment
Managed print services is an excellent solution for all kinds of things, from improved security to streamlined communication. But did you know that managed print is also a fan-favorite when it comes to saving money? Here’s what you can expect from this specialized solution!

Complex Problems, Simple Solutions

The task of saving money in your business can sometimes seem a little overwhelming. After all, there are a lot of moving parts to take into account–and if you remove just one tiny thing, it feels like the whole system could collapse.

That’s why so many companies are turning to managed print services for help controlling and protecting their budgets. Since printing is still at the heart of almost everything you do, even in this modern tech-driven world, it makes sense that a solution focused on printing would be capable of doing all kinds of great things. The best part is that you don’t have to spend your entire workflow on seeing results. All you need to do is implement a few simple print solutions, and just like that, your budget will be healthier and happier than ever.

Here are just a few ways managed print services can save you money:
- Better tools
Managed print gives you access to all kinds of communication and efficiency solutions. When armed with the right tools, it’s a lot easier to cut costs without cutting corners.
- Lower prices
Another way managed print can protect your budget is by helping you find the best prices on everything from upgrades to paper and ink. You’ll be a savvy shopper, and your budget will thank you for it!
- Improved cost per page
The biggest goal of any managed print system is to improve your cost per page–essentially, making it cheaper for you to do your everyday printing. By gathering data about your habits, reviewing how your print environment works as a whole, and implementing targeted solutions — managed print helps bring this cost down without interrupting existing balances and workflows.

This is just the beginning! To see what else managed print can do for your company, contact us today!
Biggest Benefits of a Multifunction Printer
October 17, 2019 4:43 pm Leave a Comment
Even though many companies may not stop to consider multifunction printers as “cool technology,” the truth is that these machines can do all kinds of amazing things for your business. Even beyond the print, copy, fax, and scan capabilities, they promise. Let’s find out precisely what a multifunction printer can do for you!

Don’t Underestimate the Printer

Businesses of all shapes and sizes make the mistake of underestimating their multifunction printers. Printers, after all, aren’t as eye-catching as the latest smartphones or self-driving cars. But that doesn’t mean they can’t do some pretty amazing things for your company. If you know how to put a multifunction printer to work for you, then you’ll start seeing all kinds of benefits. Like better communication and healthier budgets–without having to lift a finger.

Sound too good to be true? Here are the most significant benefits of having a multifunction printer!
- #1: They’re efficient.
Multifunction printers are the heroes of modern multitasking. They allow you to print, copy, fax, and scan, sure–but they also let you print from your mobile phone or scan directly to email. Meaning that you can do a task start to finish without having to leave the machine.
- #2: They’re budget-friendly.
It’s a whole lot cheaper to have one multitasking machine than several single-function devices. You won’t have to pay as much for energy, ink, or paper, and you’ll only have to worry about maintaining and repairing one printer!
- #3: They’re creative.
Are you looking for new marketing techniques? Want to offer more services to your clients? Are you hoping to make a great impression at that big meeting? Multifunction printers have a variety of tools and features that open up all kinds of new business opportunities, meaning that your imagination is truly the only limit.

Multifunction printers can do a little bit of everything. Plus, we have them from tech giants like Lexmark and Canon. Want to see what multifunction printers can do for you? Contact us today!
3 Ways to Take Control of Cybersecurity
October 10, 2019 9:37 pm Leave a Comment
Cybersecurity is a pretty big deal. It comes with a lot of responsibility and, too often, a lot of stress–but the good news is that you can take control of cybersecurity in your office. Here are a few tips to help put you back in the driver’s seat!

Manageable Security

The most important thing to remember when it comes to cybersecurity is that you’re not alone. Managed IT services is an excellent resource for companies looking to boost security while also improving workflows, increasing efficiency, and implementing new tech solutions. With managed IT, you can rest assured that you’ll always have someone to turn to, whether it’s for a quick question, a network issue, or an entire security overhaul.

Managed IT is all about putting you in control of your tech, and cybersecurity is no exception. Here are a few tips to help you get started!

Tip #1: Do your research.

Cybersecurity is so complicated because it’s always changing. One of your most significant responsibilities is to stay informed about the latest threats and risks. That way, you can still be prepared for whatever the tech world throws at you.

Tip #2: Prioritize good backups.

Data backups are one thing; good data backups are another. Managed IT services in Des Moines can help make sure you have efficient, effective backups that are always being updated so that your data is as safe as possible.

Tip #3: Try multiple approaches.

Antivirus software is excellent, but it’s not enough to protect your entire company. You’ll need a more complicated approach, complete with different types of tools (like a combination of encryption, user authentication, and monitoring) to keep digital threats at bay.

Worried about cybersecurity and hoping IT managed services can help your Des Moines business? Contact us today to see for yourself!
Is Scanning Part of Your Disaster Recovery Plan?
October 3, 2019 5:02 pm Leave a Comment
Companies of all kinds spend a lot of time worrying about disaster recovery plans–and for a good reason. After all, there’s a lot to worry about, from floods and fires to hackers and malware. The good news, though, is that you can strengthen your disaster recovery plan with a straightforward step: scanning.

Why Scanning?

You may be wondering how something as simple as scanning could be so vital to your disaster recovery plan. The truth is that document scanning allows you to improve organization, strengthen security, and create necessary backups in the cloud–all things that would be priceless in case of emergency. Essentially, scanning is an easy way to make your disaster recovery plan stronger and more reliable, all without investing in pricey software or complicated upgrades. Simply take your physical files, run them through the scanner, and digitally organize them. Just like that, you’re well on your way to secure backups and a great disaster recovery plan.

Here are a few more reasons why scanning might be your company’s new best friend:
- It’s fast and easy.
Chances are, you already have a machine capable of scanning paper documents. In fact, many of these scanners can be programmed to scan your files to a specific location. Organization and smooth communication have never been more effortless!
- It’s budget-friendly.
Digital workflows are efficient, effective, and a lot cheaper to manage and operate than their paper counterparts. Take, for example, a necessary file for a meeting. If you scanned that file using a Canon scanner, then there would be no need to print a massive stack of copies. Instead, you can save your time and money by emailing it to everyone.
- It’s a great tool for security.
Paper files aren’t that safe. They can be lost, destroyed, or stolen–and they’re pricey to keep around. Once they’ve been scanned, though, it’s easy to add passwords and limit access with user authentication. This means that scanning is a great way to keep your company, data, and clients safer than ever.

Are you ready to make document scanning a part of your disaster recovery plan? Contact us today to get started!
Lexmark Garners Numerous Product Awards from Printer Hardware Reviewers
October 2, 2019 1:04 am Comments Off on Lexmark Garners Numerous Product Awards from Printer Hardware Reviewers
LEXINGTON, Ky., Oct. 1, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced it has been lauded by top industry hardware reviewers for the reliability, security and ease of use of various monochrome and color laser multifunction printers (MFPs).

Better Buys
Better Buys awarded the Lexmark MC3326adwe Series with its Editor’s Choice Award for 3Q 2019 in the color MFP category.

“The MC3224dwe, MC3224adwe and MC3326adwe join Lexmark’s GO Line™ series which provides enterprise-level features in smaller, lower-cost devices,” said Melissa Pardo-Bunte, editor, Better Buys. “These color MFPs target small businesses that need affordable and efficient devices. Lexmark boasts that these MFPs are 30 percent smaller and lighter (than previous models) for a compact fit on desks and other cramped spaces.”
Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab (BLI) Summer Pick Awards
BLI recently awarded Lexmark with Summer 2019 Pick awards for the following products:
- Lexmark CS331dw/CX331adwe – Outstanding Color Printer/MFP for SOHO Environments
- Lexmark B2236dw/MB2236 Series – Outstanding Printer/MFP for SOHO Environments
- Lexmark CS622de/CX625 Series – Outstanding Color Printer/MFP for Mid-Size Workgroups
- Lexmark CS720 Series – Outstanding Color Printer for Large Workgroups
“Lexmark’s outstanding lineup was awarded with the most wins in the most categories this Summer 2019 award season,” said Kaitlin Shaw, Keypoint Intelligence senior editor, Printers/A4 MFPs. “Lexmark offers products that outshine the competition in the home office, small office, mid-size workgroup, and large workgroup areas. All of the winning models stood out for their impressive performances and user-friendliness, promising minimal downtime for busy workgroups.”

“When you factor in these devices’ low costs with their impressive performances and feature sets, it’s easy to see why Lexmark took home so many Pick awards,” Shaw concluded.

Pacesetter Award Recognizes Lexmark for Standout Ease of Use
Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab also awarded Lexmark its BLI PaceSetter 2019–2020 in Ease of Use: A4 Small Workgroup award.

“Lexmark offers a broad range of devices for small workgroups that are impressively easy to use and maintain,” said Shaw. “Buyers Lab analysts were impressed with Lexmark’s robust USB print capabilities, particularly the broad range of file formats many models support, including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Also impressive is the level of guidance Lexmark’s touchscreens provide for user maintenance procedures; extensive, graphical, step-by-step instructions steer users seamlessly through the processes for toner replacement and misfeed removal.”

“We designed these products to deliver reliable, secure and easy to use print solutions for SMB customers,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “These award-winning devices bring the power and durability of a departmental printer or MFP to the desktop, without sacrificing the enterprise-level quality and security customers expect from Lexmark.”
Managed Print: Reactive vs. Proactive Solutions
September 25, 2019 6:58 pm Leave a Comment
Printing is often a tricky subject when it comes to finances. After all, without the appropriate processes and data measurement tools in place, just hitting “print” can be an expensive choice. So today, we’re here to arm you with some proactive solutions.

What’s the Difference?

To help you get a better idea of how to effectively approach print costs (and what managed print is all about) – here are some examples of proactive solutions versus reactive solutions.

Proactive Solutions
- Maintenance. Taking good care of your Lexmark and Canon printers helps you catch small issues before they become big ones–and it also lengthens the life of your machines.
- Supply schedules. When you understand what your habits are, you can create supply schedules to help you order ink, toner, and paper before you run out.
- Timed upgrades. Upgrades can be pricey, but they’re no big deal if you plan them ahead of time and create the appropriate budgets.
Reactive Solutions
- Repairs. Choosing to do repairs on anything that breaks rather than schedule and perform regular maintenance is a reactive solution–especially since repairs are a lot more expensive!
- Random supply orders. It’s easy enough to order supplies whenever you run out, but that means you might have to put off some critical jobs while you wait for ink or paper to arrive.
- Late upgrades. Waiting to upgrade your machines until the very last minute can hurt your budget, efficiency, and workflows. Which is why it’s an excellent example of a reactive solution.
The difference is clear: proactive solutions allow you to address inefficiencies and frustrations before they become huge, expensive issues. While reactive solutions leave you scrambling to do damage control. With a little help from managed print, you can make sure that you stay firmly in the former category. Making great choices, implementing savvy changes, and overall taking control of your print environment from the bottom up.

Want to see what else managed print services can do for you? Contact us today to get started!
Multifunction Printer Tips to Save Your School’s Money
September 19, 2019 11:26 pm Leave a Comment
Des Moines organizations of all shapes and sizes are looking for ways to save money without cutting corners, and schools are no exception. Today we’ll take a look at some simple, stress-free ways to put your multifunction printers to work saving money and improving efficiency, all without making any massive changes!

Working Smarter

The great thing about multifunction printers from Canon Des Moines businesses use is that they’re designed so you can work smarter instead of harder. However, to make that possible, you need to have a few tricks up your sleeve–nothing fancy, of course. But a few simple tools for making the most of your printer’s functions and features. That way, the machine will save money for you.

Sound too good to be true? Here are a few tips you can try today!
- #1: Implement savvy security tools.
Security issues and human error can be a considerable cost for your school. Instead of stressing out, try implementing security tools like follow-me printing and user authentication. That way, documents are never left on the print tray to be lost, stolen, or accidentally reprinted.
- #2: Consolidate your fleet.
That sounds like a lot of work, but the truth is that consolidating your school’s printer fleet can make a huge difference. Do a little math and find the right number of machines for your operation size, your staff, and your school’s unique needs. This saves money on everything from ink and paper to repairs and maintenance!
- #3: Utilize print tracking.
Print tracking gives you feedback on exactly how you print. That means you’ll understand who makes how many color copies, which devices are used most often, and when your printing needs increase. It’s a great way to reflect on your habits and make the right changes.

Ready to see what else multifunction printers can do for your school? Contact us today!
Managed IT: Anatomy of a Great Provider
September 11, 2019 7:22 pm Leave a Comment
How do you tell a decent managed IT services provider from an excellent one? What are the signs that you’ve created a partnership that will benefit your security, your efficiency, your budget, and your entire company? Today we’ll help you answer these questions and more by taking a look at the “anatomy” of a great managed IT provider!

Looking Closely

At first glance, many managed IT services providers look like they’d be a good fit. They might have smart, professional technicians or offer enough variety that you can always find the services and supplies you need. They might even have fast answers to all of your questions. However, if they’re not interested in creating a partnership with your company, they’re not the right fit.

Providers like that won’t often take the time to learn your company inside and out, meaning that you’ll end up with “cookie-cutter” solutions that never quite fit. Just remember, most providers are decent–but only a perfect provider will want to create a real, lasting relationship with your business.

Let’s take a closer look at the anatomy of a great provider!

#1: Listening ears

Providers who don’t take the time to answer your questions thoroughly and honestly just aren’t going to be a good fit. Instead, they should be eager to include you in every conversation.

#2: Helping hands

A perfect provider will always be there with professional, polite technicians to solve your problems and keep your machines in good working order. They’ll also have a fast response time so that you’re never left in a tight spot.

#3: A clever mind

You want a provider who can offer targeted, savvy solutions for your unique needs, as well as guide you through rapidly-changing technology. All while helping you stay cost-effective and efficient. Intelligent providers know how to combine industry knowledge with data they’ve gathered about your unique company.

Looking for a managed IT services provider in Des Moines who has all these things and more? Contact us today!
Become a Scanning Pro with the Perfect Scanner
September 3, 2019 4:38 pm Leave a Comment
Being a “scanning pro” is easier than you might think, especially using a Canon scanner. All you need is the right information, the right inspiration–and, of course, the right scanner. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making this big decision!

A Good Investment

Scanning can quickly become your company’s “secret weapon.” Not only is it affordable and efficient–it also comes with a long list of benefits that can impact every part of your workflow. For example, scanning allows you to:
- get organized, helping you get rid of those huge stacks of paper;
- improve security, turning vulnerable paper files into digital documents that are easier to store and secure;
- save money, limiting your reliance on paper;
- and protect the environment, giving you a fast, easy, and pain-free way to “go digital” while minimizing your use of paper, ink, and energy.
Before you can enjoy those benefits, though, you need to choose the right scanner for your business.

What to Ask

Here are a few things to ask yourself when looking for that perfect machine!
- “How will we use the scanner?”
It’s essential to have a good idea of what your needs are. For example, if you plan on doing a lot of high-volume, high-speed scans, you’ll need a more powerful machine.
- “What devices need to connect to the scanner?”
In today’s world, a machine that doesn’t talk to other devices is not just frustrating–it’s an obstacle to efficiency. Make sure you choose a scanner that can connect to your existing systems, network, and mobile devices.
- “What will we need in the future?”
Don’t choose a “bare minimum” machine. Instead, find something that addresses both your current goals and your future ones–that way, you won’t have to break the bank upgrading later.

Ready to be a scanning pro? Need help choosing the perfect Canon scanner? Contact us today!
Managed Print: Where is Your Money Going?
August 28, 2019 3:04 pm Leave a Comment
Managed print helps you cut down on paper usage, improve security, streamline workflows, boost efficiency, but maybe the most important thing is budget control. Essentially, managed print allows you to answer one big question: where is your money going?

How it Works

Managed print services rely on a print audit to get a complete, detailed look at your business–your habits, your needs, your challenges, your Lexmark printers, your workflows, and more. With this information, you and your provider can make informed decisions about which direction to take, which solutions to implement, and how to go about making the best changes for your company. However, there’s one type of data that many companies find the most appealing: financial facts.

Here’s what a print audit will tell you about where your money is going:
- Equipment
How many printers do you have, and how much do they cost to operate? What about other hardware? Do you pay for specialized software? Managed print provides valuable transparency when it comes to equipment costs.
- Supplies
Paper, ink, toner, you name it–ordering and storing supplies can get pricey. A print audit will help you see exactly what you’re spending (and why).
- Repairs and maintenance
Part of your print budget will always go toward repairing and maintaining your hardworking machines. Exactly how much of your budget? Well, that’s what managed print will help you find out.
- Invisible costs
There are other, less obvious costs of operating a printer fleet–which means that it can feel challenging to find out where your money is going. Luckily, managed print can help you keep track of these things–like the cost of unnecessary printing, the unapproved use of print shops, accidental supply orders, and more.

Managed print uses this information to help you take control of your budget and save money, time, and stress. To see for yourself, contact us today!
Should You Buy or Lease a Multifunction Printer?
August 20, 2019 8:25 pm Leave a Comment
You have a lot of decisions to make when it comes to multifunction printers–but one choice you definitely shouldn’t have to stress about is whether to buy or lease. Today we’ll cover the pros and cons of both, helping you decide what’s best for your business.

Before You Decide

Long before you start worrying about buying or leasing, you should focus on the multifunction printer itself. It’s best to have some idea about what you want before you start the shopping process. For example, choosing a Lexmark or Canon–that way, you won’t be distracted by features and functions when you’re trying to decide between leases and price tags.

The best way to decide which multifunction printer is best for you is to do a little bit of research, analyze your goals both now and in the future, and prioritize. These machines can be a great advantage for your company–provided, of course, that they support your needs and open up all the right opportunities.

The Big Choice

Once you know what you want, it’s time to decide how to get it. Here are the pros and cons when it comes to buying or leasing multifunction printers!

Buying

Pros: Although the upfront cost of buying a printer might seem high, it’s actually cheaper in the long run. The tax benefits are also a pretty great advantage. On top of that, you own the machine, which means you get to call all the shots (and eventually get some money back when you go to sell it).

Cons: Ownership means you’re on the hook for everything. Repairs, maintenance, eventual upgrades–you’ll have to deal with all the details.

Leasing

Pros: Leasing gives you budget flexibility. You won’t have to worry about depreciation, and you’ll be able to upgrade whenever your lease allows.

Cons: The biggest disadvantage of leasing is that you’ll be paying more in the long run.

Buy or lease–it’s a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. If you want to see multifunction printer options, contact us today!
Managed IT: A Long-Term Solution
August 12, 2019 9:53 pm Leave a Comment
What are short-term IT support solutions, and why are they bad news for your business? Today, we’re going to find out–all by taking a look at a long-term IT solution: managed IT services.

Duct-Taping Your Problems

Duct-tape might be great for just about everything, but one thing it’s not good for is fixing IT problems. You don’t want a “quick fix” or a short-term remedy that’s just going to hold your IT together for a little while; instead, you want a solution that actually gets to the root of the problem and addresses it, then works its way up to eliminate all the other issues. That’s a long-term IT solution–and managed IT services is a perfect example.

With managed IT, you can rest assured that your tech problems are being solved from the ground up, meaning that once they’re gone, they’re gone–you won’t have to worry about them showing their ugly faces again. Additionally, managed IT helps you create plans and implement changes that work proactively so that new problems don’t arise in the first place.

Here are a few more ways managed IT services helps protect your tech:
- Growth
As your company grows and changes, so do your IT needs. Managed IT can be scaled to fit your business no matter what, which means you’ll always be able to count on your software, your Lexmark and Canon machines, and your network.
- Cost savings
It’s expensive to “duct-tape” your IT problems. They end up causing bigger issues in the long run–but when you use managed IT to solve them instead of covering them up, you save money in all kinds of ways.
- Support
Another great thing about managed IT is that it’s there when you need it most. By putting you in contact with experts who can answer your questions, provide recommendations, and get you into good IT habits, this solution ensures that you’re never left in a bind.

Ready to see what else managed IT services can do for you? Contact us today!
Scanning Tips: What Belongs in the Cloud?
August 9, 2019 4:45 pm Leave a Comment
Cloud services are great for all kinds of things–security, communication, streamlining, and more. However, many companies aren’t always sure when and how to use the cloud in order to get the most use out of it. That’s why today’s scanning tips will focus on cloud storage and how to decide what belongs there.

After You Scan

Scanning using a Canon Des Moines organizations have trusted for many years is a kind of gateway solution: it opens up all kinds of paths and opportunities for new ways to store, access, and distribute information. One thing you can do after scanning your documents is to store them in the cloud–a safe, efficient way to make data accessible to all the right teams and individuals. There’s no “right” way to use the cloud, but there are efficient ways–and knowing them can help you make the most out of all your cloud services.

Using the Cloud

Let’s take a look at which of your scanned documents belong in the cloud!
- Correspondence
Look over the letters and messages you’ve exchanged with clients, suppliers, and other important business partners. Chances are, most of these include important information for all parties–which means it’s a good idea to store them in the cloud, where they can safely be shared with anyone who needs access.
- Schedules
No matter how you do your scheduling or what your calendars look like, they definitely belong in the cloud. That way, everyone can see them–and those with proper permissions can update things to keep everyone on track.
- Password information
It’s rule #1 never to write your passwords down, right? Well, the truth is that, as long as you’re using a reliable password management program and you have the proper encryption and security, the cloud is a great place to store this kind of information. It helps ensure that you can get into all of your accounts from anywhere, all without putting your data security at risk.

Looking for more scanning tips? Want to learn about cloud storage? Contact us today!
Sharp Announces 13 New Monochrome Multifunction Printers That Join Award-Winning MFP Product Family
August 7, 2019 12:37 am Comments Off on Sharp Announces 13 New Monochrome Multifunction Printers That Join Award-Winning MFP Product Family
MONTVALE, N.J., Aug. 6, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), announces 11 new Advanced and Essentials Series workgroup MFPs, as well as two new Advanced Series desktop MFPs for the technology-driven workplace. All the new models are built using Sharp’s latest controller technology and share Sharp’s award-winning, easy-to-use touchscreen display, common across 30+ models in the lineup. The new models also offer available voice control features, greater cloud integration, leading-edge security and more.

Using the available MFP Voice feature with Amazon Alexa, users can ask the MFP to make copies or scan a document. The new models also easily integrate with today’s complex network environments and offer quick access to an expanded list of cloud services that include Box and Dropbox. Additionally, Adobe Embedded Print Engine technology enables users to direct print PDF files from a variety of sources with greater performance and rendering accuracy. Sharp’s new Application Portal allows administrators to easily add new applications and update existing ones right from the touchscreen of the MFP.

All 13 models deliver leading-edge security features, such as firmware attack prevention and a self-recovery capability, which can identify a malicious intrusion and restore the machine firmware to its original state. An application whitelisting feature helps protect the machine’s file system from unauthorized access. Additionally, administrators can centrally manage select settings at the device using Active Directory® Group Policy.

“We are excited to offer this new lineup of monochrome MFPs that not only offers great features but also delivers consistency throughout the product family,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Our focus continues to be about providing quality products that deliver superior productivity and ease-of-use. We’re proud to continue that tradition with this new lineup of monochrome Advanced and Essentials series models.”

The following models will be available for shipment in late August via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales channels:

Advanced Series Workgroup Models
- MX-M3071 – 30 ppm; replaces the MX-M3070
- MX-M3571 – 35 ppm; replaces the MX-M3570
- MX-M4071 – 40 ppm; replaces the MX-M4070
- MX-M5071 – 50 ppm; replaces the MX-M5070
- MX-M6071 – 60 ppm; replaces the MX-M6070
Essentials Series Workgroup Models
- MX-M2651 – 26 ppm; replaces the MX-M2630
- MX-M3051 – 30 ppm; replaces the MX-M3050
- MX-M3551 – 35 ppm; replaces the MX-M3550
- MX-M4051 – 40 ppm; replaces the MX-M4050
- MX-M5051 – 50 ppm; replaces the MX-M5050
- MX-M6051 – 60 ppm; replaces the MX-M6050
Advanced Series Desktop Models
- MX-B376W – 37 ppm; replaces the MX-B355W
- MX-B476W – 47 ppm; replaces the MX-B455W
The Biggest Benefits of Managed Print
July 29, 2019 9:45 pm Leave a Comment
The truth about managed print services is that it has a long list of benefits–so many, in fact, that it might take you days to fully appreciate them all. Luckily, it’s easy to see the biggest benefits of this great solution–and today, we’ll show you exactly what they are.

What is Managed Print?

Before we see what this solution can do, we should take a minute to see how it works. Managed print helps you take control of your entire print environment–from consumables to machine placement to specific settings–and recommends solutions designed specifically for you. It allows you to better understand your own habits, anticipate future needs, and streamline just about everything you do, all while saving time and money. There’s no limit to what you can achieve with a little help from managed print.

Big Benefits

So, what does managed print actually do? Let’s find out!

#1: Improved security

Did you know that hackers often start an attack by targeting the printer? Managed print helps you identify security problems in your print workflows and find fast, effective solutions–all without draining your budget. Your data, machines, and networks will be safer than ever.

#2: Boosted efficiency

One of the best things about managed print is that it introduces new solutions that you might not have considered before. For example, you could implement mobile printing to save time and improve flexibility; you could also use online tools to manage your devices remotely, allowing you to keep things running smoothly no matter what.

#3: Strengthened communication

Good communication relies on good printing. With managed print, you can minimize downtime and make sure everyone is using the printers from Lexmark Des Moines’ trusts as efficiently as possible–which, in turn, allows you to simplify and strengthen communication in every corner of your business.

Want to see what else managed print can do? Contact us today for more information!
Lexmark Extends SMB Offering with New Lexmark GO Line™ Devices
July 20, 2019 1:36 am Comments Off on Lexmark Extends SMB Offering with New Lexmark GO Line™ Devices
LEXINGTON, Ky., July 16, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the expansion of its Lexmark GO Line series with the availability of six new devices designed for small and medium business (SMB). The Lexmark GO Line series delivers enterprise-level durability, reliability, security and features in a smaller, lighter, lower cost device.

The Lexmark GO Line devices launched today include two new color single-function printers, the C3224dw and C3326dw; three new color multi-function devices (MFPs), the MC3224dwe, MC3224adwe and MC3326adwe; and a new monochrome MFP, the MB2236adwe.

The color devices launched today are up to 30 percent smaller and lighter than Lexmark’s predecessor products, to accommodate small spaces. Wi-Fi is standard, along with enhanced connectivity and support for mobile users. These devices also come with multicore processing and Lexmark’s full-spectrum security, which ensures the same level of award-winning security and protection found in Lexmark enterprise-class devices. A one-piece toner cartridge combines imaging components with Unison toner, making them easily removable and recyclable through Lexmark’s Cartridge Collection program.

The color devices print up to 24 or 26 color pages per minute, while the mono device features print speeds of up to 36 pages per minute. The multi-function products feature a 2.8″ touchscreen.

“The Lexmark GO Line series delivers SMB customers a simplified product line with easy to use, reliable products that fit their budgets and environments,” said Brock Saladin, Lexmark senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “Lexmark GO Line series products are designed to be quick and easy to select, place and configure, with a full range of features that enable customers to maximize their productivity and simplify device management, with the peace of mind that comes with Lexmark’s full spectrum security.”

Products in the Lexmark GO Line series are available through the Lexmark Global Partner Network and directly from global distributors.

Lexmark is also announcing two new enterprise color products today. The CS331dw single function printer and the CX331adwe MFP help to enhance small-workgroup productivity with color output up to 26 pages per minute, high-yield replacement toner cartridges, and connectivity via Wi-Fi, USB and gigabit ethernet.
The Best Things About Multifunction Printers
July 16, 2019 7:42 pm Leave a Comment
There are so many great benefits associated with multifunction printers that it might take hours to list them all in-depth. However, since multifunction printers are all about saving time and space, we’ve compiled this quick list of the best things about MFPs–so read on to find even more reasons to love these powerful, efficient machines.

Value, Performance, and Reliability

Multifunction printers from Canon or Lexmark are a popular choice in companies of all sizes and industries of all kinds–and that’s because these machines really are the workhorses of the business world. They copy, fax, scan, and print, and on top of that, they come with plenty of extra features to help you achieve your marketing goals, communicate better than ever before, and impress your customers. Essentially, a multifunction printer is everything you could ask for in a single piece of office equipment–and it has plenty of benefits to offer, too.

A multifunction printer will:
- Save time.
The great thing about MFPs is that they’re a one-stop, do-it-yourself machine–which means you can start and finish an entire print job without taking a step. They save all kinds of time connecting to and collaborating with multiple devices–and besides, it’s easier to learn how to use one machine instead of a whole fleet.
- Save money.
Multifunction printers are affordable in numerous ways. Firstly, they have a budget-friendly upfront cost, which means you don’t have to settle for something you don’t want just because the price is right. On top of that, they’re also cheaper to own and operate than separate fax, scan, print, and copy machines–and you only have to buy ink and paper for one device.
- Save the environment.
With an MFP, it’s easier than ever to utilize online tools, limit your reliance on paper, and use less energy and ink. Who would have thought that one big printer could be Mother Earth’s best friend?

Multifunction printers are a great fit for every business. Contact us today to see for yourself!
Managed IT: Combining IT Services and Security Services
July 10, 2019 5:24 pm Leave a Comment
Should you use two different providers for IT security services and managed IT services in Des Moines? What’s best for your data, your budget, and your company overall? Today, we’ll help you answer these questions and more by taking a closer look at managed tech services like these.

The Basics

Since the two often overlap, it’s important to understand the real differences between managed IT services and managed security services. Knowing the details helps you make savvy, informed decisions that protect your business and save time, money, and stress.

Managed IT services

A managed IT provider is responsible for:
- helping create and manage backups,
- managing routers, firewalls, and other tech,
- keeping your network up and running,
- offering cloud services,
- and providing customer service and IT support in Des Moines for you and your employees.
Managed security services

A managed security provider is responsible for:
- managing your use of mobile devices
- identifying security vulnerabilities
- running assessments to ensure compliance with security regulations
- and responding to threats, breaches, and other issues.
The Best of Both Worlds

For most businesses, it’s best to combine these services–to find a provider who can offer both managed IT and advanced security. In general, it’s cheaper to combine everything than to pay for separate vendors–and on top of that, you only have to find one company you can trust and work with. Additionally, it’s easier, more consistent, and less stressful for you and your provider to cut out any “middle man” and instead communicate directly on all IT concerns.

At the end of the day, it’s important for you to decide what works best for your unique company–and, of course, to find a provider who supports your unique goals.

Want to learn more about IT managed services and managed security services? Contact us today!
Top Reasons You Need Scanning Solutions
July 5, 2019 6:42 pm Leave a Comment
By now, you’ve probably heard plenty about scanning solutions and why they’re so great–but do you know what makes them an invaluable part of any business? Here are the top reasons you should consider scanning solutions!

Achieving Simplicity

Today’s business solutions are generally powerful, efficient, and budget-friendly–but they aren’t always simple. Scanning, though, doesn’t have that problem. It’s as simple as it sounds–just place your document on the scanner, press the right buttons, and get ready to see instant improvements in communication, security, document storage, and more. Many businesses tend to take scanning for granted because they think it’s too simple to be helpful–but that’s simply not the case.

Still not convinced? Here are the top reasons why scanning solutions are a great choice for every business!
- #1: Scanning limits paper reliance.
Do you ever feel like you rely too much on paper? It can be expensive, inefficient, and unreliable–but scanning solutions help you make the switch to digital documents. That way, you can cut down on paper reliance at your own speed and start enjoying the benefits of easy-to-use, easy-to-organize digital files.
- #2: Scanning makes security easier.
You can’t protect your company’s files if they’re all over the place. Scanned files are much easier to manage–and with tools like password protection and access control, you have multiple layers of security at your disposal.
- #3: Scanning improves disaster recovery plans.
Whether you’re planning for physical disasters or digital ones, scanning can help you create backups and strengthen disaster recovery plans so that you’re prepared for just about anything.
- #4: Scanning saves time and money.
No more hunting for lost documents, no more reprinting, no more frustration–scanning helps you save time and money by introducing simple solutions into your workflow.

Ready to get started with document scanning solutions? We’re here to help. Contact us today!

Canon Des Moines
Go Green with Managed Print!
June 26, 2019 7:58 pm Leave a Comment
Managed print is one of those unique solutions that can help you go green and save green at the same time. It’s simple but powerful, environmentally friendly but efficient–and best of all, it benefits just about everything in your company while helping to protect Mother Earth. Sound too good to be true? Read on to find out how managed print can help you go green the smart way!

Creative Solutions

The great thing about managed print is that there’s nothing “cookie-cutter” about it. Instead, it’s completely designed around you–your workflows, your needs, your machines, and your unique goals. By analyzing your print environment and helping you find ways to improve your habits and processes, managed print introduces solutions you might never have considered–and the best part is that, by making things better for you, managed print is also making things better for the environment. Every time you use double-sided printing or rely on a digital tool instead of physical paper, you’re keeping your budget and Mother Earth healthy and happy.

Here are just a few of the creative ways managed print can help you go green!
- Minimize waste
Managed print isn’t about getting you to stop printing. It’s actually about teaching you all the best ways to print smart, which means minimizing wasteful practices and being mindful about how you use your machines.
- Make efficient choices
Little choices can make big differences. For example, you can change the defaults on your printer to be more environmentally friendly, use recycled paper, and recycle your print cartridges–simple for you, but great for your budget (and the Earth).
- Choose good upgrades
Upgrading to more efficient, less wasteful machines can do wonders for your sustainability. Older machines waste money, energy, ink, and paper–but managed print helps you find the smartest, most efficient ways to upgrade so your fleet is always as green as can be.

Ready to see what managed print can do for you? Contact us today!
Multifunction Printer Tips: Maintenance Agreement Benefits
June 19, 2019 8:41 pm Leave a Comment
Multifunction printers are responsible for so many things in your workflow that, if they break down or run into issues, your productivity levels could suffer for hours or even days. That’s why many companies turn to the reliability and efficiency of a maintenance agreement–to keep things running smoothly.

A Good Choice

When it comes to print environments, you have a lot of choices to make. The first great choice is bringing multifunction printers into your fleet. These machines are powerful and intelligent, allowing you to do a little bit of everything–all while being budget-friendly.

The next great choice is to enter into a maintenance agreement that acts as a “safety net,” helping make sure that your multifunction printer is able to consistently perform at these high levels. There are plenty of things to love about maintenance agreements–so let’s take a closer look!
- Cost
One of the best things about printer maintenance agreements is that they offer fixed prices. This means that you won’t have to keep paying for every little thing and that you won’t have to worry about any hidden costs–just one price you can count on.
- Longevity
Regular maintenance helps ensure that multifunction printers last a long time. The truth is that it’s always cheaper and more efficient to pay for “printer TLC” than it is to pay for an upgrade or repair.
- Reliability
Maintenance contracts guarantee that your provider will always be there for you. Fast, personalized service allows you to rest easy knowing that your company’s unique goals and needs will always be taken into account–and that you’ll never be forced to fix big problems by yourself.

Want to learn more about multifunction printers? Interested in maintenance agreements? Contact us today!
Managed IT Services for Public Relations Firms
3:12 pm Leave a Comment
IT managed services in Des Moines is a great tool for companies of all shapes and sizes–and in all different industries. This is because managed IT is unique in the way it approaches each business’s individual needs. Even public relations firms, with their specialized goals and security requirements, can benefit from this solution–and here’s how!

A Different Approach

Managed IT services Des Moines businesses use never looks the same twice. Instead, it adapts to each business and essentially becomes part of the environment–all without interrupting efficiency. For example, a managed IT provider can help streamline fleets while protecting crucial functionality, perhaps by replacing single-function devices with multifunction printers. The possibilities are endless, and the benefits are incredible.

Managed IT and PR

How does managed IT fit the unique needs of PR firms? Let’s find out!
- #1: Priorities
PR firms do a lot of different things under one roof, from speech-writing to marketing to planning events. Managed IT doesn’t just keep up with all of these differing needs and goals–it helps make sure everyone is on the same page by making devices, files, data, and online tools interconnected and efficient.
- #2: Costs
IT can be expensive. With managed IT, PR firms don’t have to worry about expensive repairs, maintenance, or upgrades–instead, the provider will create proactive solutions as well as step-by-step financial plans to make upgrades possible.
- #3: Backups
Every industry worries about data loss and online disasters, and PR firms are no exception. Luckily, managed IT services Des Moines industry leaders use from MMIT makes it easy to create and organize cloud-based backups–that way, no natural disaster, man-made accident, or cyber-criminal can get in the way of efficiency and success.

Managed IT is a perfect solution for PR firms. Contact us today to learn more!
Scanning: The Easy Way to Get Organized
June 5, 2019 3:52 pm Leave a Comment
“Getting organized” seems like it’s on every company’s list of New Year’s resolutions. Of course, eliminating stacks of paper and creating simple filing systems is easier said than done–until now, that is! Scanning makes it fast, simple, and stress-free to get organized, and the best part is that you can get started today.

No More Procrastinating!

Many companies tend to procrastinate when it comes to getting organized simply because they aren’t sure where to start. It’s a big job, and it can seem daunting at first–but with scanning solutions, you don’t have to worry about any of that. In fact, all you need to do is prepare your documents, scan them in using a Canon scanner, and name them according to a simple filing system–and then you’re good to go!

Scanning makes it simple and painless to get organized, but it also comes with a lot of other great benefits. For example, when you start scanning documents in your business, you’ll enjoy:
- streamlined workflows, where it’s easy to find, update, and share documents because they’re all scanned in;
- smoother communication, because no one will be scrambling to find hard copies of certain documents;
- better security, since you can control access to scanned documents and set passwords so that only the right people can see important files;
- fewer errors, thanks to automation options and less human error;
- and less stress, because scanned documents are easy to create and even easier to use.
When you use scanning solutions in your company, you’re not just making things easier on yourself–you’re also creating a safe, efficient workplace that’s good for you and the environment. Scanning truly is a win-win!

Ready to get started with scanning solutions? Contact us today!
What You Need to Know About Buying vs Leasing a Printer
May 22, 2019 6:30 pm Leave a Comment
Every office needs at least one good printer, but it’s up to the business rather it needs to purchase a printer or to rent one. For some companies, leasing makes more sense. For others, purchasing a printer outright is a much better situation.

Cutting Edge Office Technology

For offices that want to be on the cutting edge of technology and utilize all of the latest printer features and compatibilities, renting a printer might be a better plan than buying one. When the equipment is rented, it can be upgraded as newer models are released on the market. Renting allows the company not to be locked into the current models until they’re ready to replace it with a new purchase.

Financial Considerations

Does your company want to own all of its equipment, or does it make more financial sense to make smaller monthly payments to rent its equipment? Some want to invest in their own office machines while others would find it difficult to come up with the purchase price for a new printer all at once. If it would wreck your company’s budget to buy, renting might be a better idea. However, if the goal is to pay less over the life of the machine, it may be better to buy one that can be used for many years to come.

Contracts

When you purchase a printer, it’s paid for and you can then decide whether your multifunction printer should have managed print services. But with a lease, there will be a contract period for the rental. If you find that you don’t need the printer as much as you thought, or it’s simply the wrong one for your needs, you still have to pay the monthly rental fee throughout the life of the lease. That can add monthly costs to the budget that aren’t necessary. If the company simply owned that printer, it could be sold or traded in on a different model.

If you’re thinking about leasing or purchasing a new office printer, contact us to find out about the latest models available.
Lexmark Launches New Approach to Enterprise Print with Cloud Print Infrastructure as a Service
May 19, 2019 11:37 pm Comments Off on Lexmark Launches New Approach to Enterprise Print with Cloud Print Infrastructure as a Service
LEXINGTON, Ky., May 14, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the availability of Lexmark Cloud Print Infrastructure (CPI), a complete as-a-service solution that utilizes IoT and cloud technologies to take its industry-leading managed print services (MPS) offering to a new level. With Lexmark CPI, customers access a modern, secure print environment through a subscription service in which they pay for print capacity rather than owning and managing the physical infrastructure.

This completely new approach to enterprise print enables IT departments to reduce costs by removing infrastructure and management burden, while ensuring a higher level of user experience. For purchasing departments spending valuable time managing RFPs and complex billing, the offering provides flexible subscription pricing options.

“As organizations seek to remove IT complexity, Lexmark Cloud Print Infrastructure as a Service builds on Lexmark’s MPS leadership to simplify how our customers approach print. We can now take on a full range of their print infrastructure challenges, allowing the customer to focus on the print capacity they need while we take care of the rest,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer.

The Lexmark CPI offering simplifies print, from acquisition to IT management and user support:

Data-based Print Fleet Design provides customers a more standardized and connected fleet of devices. Using best-in-class benchmark data, Lexmark hardware deployment plans address current use patterns, security protections and future print and scan needs, resulting in a custom fleet design that will scale to meet changing needs. The devices are owned and managed by Lexmark, providing potential flexibility in operating expense accounting.

Cloud Print Management enables customers to eliminate the physical infrastructure required to support the print environment, including on-premises print servers, print server provisioning, driver deployment and user management. Instead of sending documents through a print server to a designated print device, documents are transferred to the Lexmark Cloud where they are held until a user logs in or authenticates at the printer. Features include Secure Print Release, Mobile Print and a Hybrid Option.

IoT / Smart Services are designed to deliver an always-on print environment:
- Proactive Consumables Management leverages artificial intelligence to provide automated, accurate, just-in-time supplies fulfillment.
- Predictive Services assess the health of a device through algorithms based on alerts, sensor readings and more to anticipate needed intervention and maximize uptime.
- Proactive Device Notification informs users of actions taken behind the scenes, such as toner shipments and service delivery schedules.
- Live Data Analytics provides real-time device performance data.
“Lexmark MFPs are smart IoT devices,” Waugerman said. “We apply Big Data analytics to sensor output that enables smart services, allowing us to actually predict device needs and take preemptive action to maximize uninterrupted uptime, including automatic supplies replenishment and predictive service.”

Cloud Print Infrastructure as a Service is available in the U.S. today directly from Lexmark.
Keeping Documents Safe from Prying Eyes
May 8, 2019 8:27 pm Leave a Comment
Keeping data safe today is a bigger concern than ever. Luckily, there are now more ways to keep it safe than ever before. Here are some ways you can add layers of safety onto the data that you’re responsible for.

Digitize Your Documents

Many companies put more emphasis on their cybersecurity, but it’s still hard copies of documents that are the most vulnerable to thieves. When you have an office full of paper documents, they are vulnerable in a number of ways. They may be left in a copier and seen by the wrong people. They may be picked up from a desk by a criminal. They may end up being lost and/or thrown away and become vulnerable to thieves looking for data to steal. By scanning and digitizing the documents instead, you won’t have hard copies to worry about keeping safe any longer.

Shred Hard Copies

Putting all of those hard copies in the trash after document scanning them leaves them even more vulnerable to thieves. Even if you’ve never had a problem with thieves in the garbage before, a massive data dump like this could attract attention and bring them to your outdoor cans. Shred everything that is going out, and bundle the shredded documents together to keep them mixed up.

Cloud Storage

With your computer systems intact and secure, your documents will be even more secure when they are stored in the cloud and accessed through your computer network. This keeps them safe from any disaster that could wipe out your computers. The safety of storage in the cloud has been shown time and time again over the years, and it’s the perfect long-term storage for your sensitive files. They can also be made accessible only to certain employees with this kind of storage, further guarding them against prying eyes.

When you want to digitize your files and switch to a more effective document management system, contact us to find out how to get started.
How to Manage Your Print Costs Effectively
April 26, 2019 4:09 pm Leave a Comment
When operating a business, managing outgoing costs is just as important as increasing profits. Small improvements to your regular processes will help you decrease the amount you spend and optimize your resources. Controlling print expenditures and managing your print resources properly is one area where analysis and improvement will help your entire business run smoothly. Without having to worry about ordering printer supplies and keeping the machine running, your employees can concentrate on more pressing tasks.

Be Clear About Your Printing Policy

It may seem like common sense, but setting a printing policy for your employees that encourages them to only use the printer for business purposes and retrieve documents as soon as they are printed will help to cut down on waste and eliminate potential exposure of confidential information to unauthorized personnel. Setting guidelines for your employees will help cut down on wasteful printing and unnecessary copies.

Consider All the Costs in Your Analysis

A full accounting of printing costs should include everything related to these expenses. In addition to per-page printing costs, include:
- Employee time spent ordering and stocking supplies and managing issues that arise with the printer
- Repairs or service call costs
- Toner, paper, ink, and other supplies
- Shredding or other paper disposal costs
Optimize Document Workflows for Better Efficiency

Once you’ve taken stock of all the time and money spent on printing-related costs, you can look for places to make your processes better. Scanning documents into the system instead of sending them via mail can save days of waiting, the cost of paper, ink, and postage, and the time it takes employees to send documents out. These might seem like small changes, but incremental savings can add up when applied to each process.

If you’re spending too much on printing and related costs, MMIT Business Solutions Group can help you set up a managed print solution that works for your organization. Contact us today to find out more.
Sharp Adds Four New High-Volume A3 MFPS To Highly Successful Color Advanced And Essentials Series Lineup
April 24, 2019 1:37 am Comments Off on Sharp Adds Four New High-Volume A3 MFPS To Highly Successful Color Advanced And Essentials Series Lineup
MONTVALE, N.J., April 23, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), announces the addition of four new high speed models to its color Advanced and Essentials Series lineup, bringing the total to 11 models in the product family ranging from 26 to 60 pages per minute. The four new models are designed for busy workgroups and departmental environments and offer advanced features for the technology-driven workplace. The new models include Sharp’s award-winning, easy-to-use touchscreen display, common across 30-plus models in Sharp’s multifunction printer lineup, and offer greater cloud integration, leading-edge security and available voice control features.

The new MFP Voice feature with Amazon Alexa enables users to interact with the machine by using simple verbal commands. These new color models also easily integrate with today’s complex network environments and offer quick access to an expanded list of cloud services that include Box and Dropbox. Additionally, Adobe Embedded Print Engine technology enables users to direct print PDF files from a variety of sources with greater performance and rendering accuracy. Sharp’s new Application Portal allows administrators to easily add new applications and update existing ones right from the touchscreen of the machine. The new models are also equipped with enhanced productivity features, such as the ability to feed up to 50 envelopes from the standard paper drawer.

The new color Advanced and Essentials Series also delivers leading-edge security features, such as a firmware attack prevention and a self-recovery capability, which can identify a malicious intrusion and restore the machine firmware to its original state. An application whitelisting feature helps protects the machine’s file system from unauthorized access. Additionally, administrators can centrally manage select settings at the device using Active Directory® Group Policy.

“This is an exciting time at Sharp, as we roll out a new high speed modes in our line of color workgroup MFPs that offer greater cloud integration, enhanced workflow capability, and voice integration to meet the demands of today’s technology-driven workplace,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Our focus continues to be to provide quality MFPs that deliver superior productivity, performance and ease-of-use. We’re proud to continue that tradition with this new lineup of color Advanced and Essentials series models.”

The following four models will be available to ship via authorized Sharp dealer and direct sales channels:

Advanced Series:
- MX-5071 – 50 ppm; replaces the MX-5070V
- MX-6071 – 60 ppm; replaces the MX-6070V
Essentials Series:
- MX-5051 – 50 ppm; replaces the MX-5050V
- MX-6051 – 60 ppm; replaces the MX-6050V
Lexmark Wins Prestigious 2019 Printer/MFP Line of the Year Award from Keypoint Intelligence
1:37 am Comments Off on Lexmark Wins Prestigious 2019 Printer/MFP Line of the Year Award from Keypoint Intelligence
LEXINGTON, Ky., April 23, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that it has won the prestigious 2019 Printer/MFP Line of the Year award from Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab (BLI), the world’s leading independent evaluator of document imaging hardware, software, and services.

According to Keypoint Intelligence, the award is based on the strength and breadth of the range of Lexmark’s printers and MFPs tested. All 13 Lexmark products tested for the Winter 2019 season earned Buyers Lab’s ‘Highly Recommended’ rating and won Pick awards.

“It is an honor to receive the Keypoint Intelligence 2019 Line of the Year award for our color and monochrome printer and MFP lines,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark Senior Vice President and CTO. “The Lexmark team pushed the envelope in 2018, refreshing over 90 percent of our product line to bring our customers the most durable, secure, and efficient devices ever. We are proud of this recognition and of the tremendous response from our customers.”

“From small office to enterprise environments, Lexmark has a printer or MFP designed to meet the complex needs, and budget, of the modern workplace,” said Marlene Orr, Keypoint Intelligence’s Director of Printer & MFP Analysis. “Lexmark devices are built on a solid foundation of excellent reliability and impressive user-friendliness, featuring an intuitive design with smart technology that can help simplify even the most complicated workflows. This translates to maximum uptime and worker productivity. When you add in a robust portfolio of software, low running costs, and cutting-edge security features, like firmware integrity checking and intrusion detection, Lexmark is the clear choice for the Buyers Lab’s 2019 Printer/MFP Line of the Year.”

Presented once a year, Line of the Year awards honor those manufacturers’ product lines that are determined to be the best overall based on the cumulative test results of all models tested in Buyers Lab’s rigorous two-month laboratory evaluation. The selections are made by Buyers Lab’s highly experienced staff of technicians and analysts after subjecting scores of devices from every major OEM to exhaustive, comprehensive lab tests.
Boost Office Productivity with a Multifunction Printer
April 17, 2019 5:27 pm Leave a Comment
The use of printers in the typical office is necessary for day-to-day business. Having at least one printer that is a multifunction printer is a far more convenient and cost-saving way to provide printing to employees.

Easier Projects

When employees have projects that require any type of printing, a multifunction printer makes it all the easier for organizations in Des Moines. Because these printers can take on so many tasks, none of that will have to be outsourced to a printing center, and productivity will not suffer. It’s fast and easy to get those jobs done in-house when you have one of these machines available.

Saving Money

Because a multifunction printer handles so many different office tasks, you won’t have to invest in several machines to do it all. You won’t have to buy a separate copier, a machine that collates, a fax machine, or various other machines that do just one specific job. It also saves money by requiring less room to keep it in. Needing three or more office machines could necessitate one or more rooms to house them in. None of that is necessary when just one machine will do it all. And because you don’t have to outsource any of these tasks, you save money by getting all of it done in-house.

Getting It All Done

Many multifunction printers can take on two or more tasks at the same time. That means that there doesn’t have to be a line at the printer as people wait for their turn. It can print and copy at the same time, and many types can both print and collate and staple together documents all at once. And because modern multifunction machines are so fast, it leads to higher productivity and less time spent waiting for your pages to print, fax, or be copied.

When you want to get your own multifunction printer into your office, contact us to find out more about today’s high-tech models.
How to Smoothly Implement New Technology in the Workplace
April 10, 2019 2:32 pm Leave a Comment
Are you bringing in new workstations? What about a new software suite, or a better database?

Bringing in new technology has historically been a challenge that requires planning, documentation, testing, and after-action feedback. Several things could go wrong on the technical side and the personal side, but proper preparation can iron out the most devastating side effects of new technology.

Keep these concepts in mind as you install, upgrade, or revolutionize your business tech infrastructure.

Beta Testing For Smoother Transitions

Measure twice, cut once. It’s a standard saying in many lines of work, from carpentry and masonry to architectural design and engineering. Measuring what you need, creating what you need, and bringing in what you need means less waste.

For many people, bringing in technology means wasting a lot of time and money in hopes of something that makes it all worth it. Individuals struggle to set up their accounts, install and test programs, and migrate their files. Businesses displace their workers and lose productivity hours trying to figure out what to do on the spot.

Bringing in a professional can help, but do they know exactly what you need? A licensed technician can install, turn on, and operate the systems they’re trained to handle, but understanding the unique quirks of your software and files can take a lot of explaining.

Beta testing is the process of trying out an experimental, incomplete, or preliminary version of products and services. While your old systems are still in place, build a test system, and bring it into your work environment. Test how well it works with the peace of mind that your old system is on standby.

For businesses with multiple employees, give one or two employees a new system, or designate a training system for everyone to test. For software, make sure that you have a backup of your original files that can be restored if the new software damages or incorrectly alters your information.

When the new system seems to function correctly–or better than the old systems–start moving everything out and adopt the new systems at your leisure.

Restack And Major System Moves

How much new equipment are you installing? Do you need to move out old equipment? Does anyone have to stop working during the change, and how long will the change affect business as usual?

Restacking–the act of bringing in new systems and moving out old systems–is a planned and well-organized way to upgrade your systems while losing as little time as possible. Technicians will uninstall and relocate old systems, then install the new systems.

Businesses with hundreds or thousands of people per location choose to restack entire departments or buildings by designating a specific time to move everything. Some moves will happen after hours, while businesses that operate at all hours–or areas where night operations aren’t practical–will give their employees half days off as the move takes place.

If you move just a department at a time, your entire business won’t grind to a halt. Especially for large companies, allowing some key, quick, and flexible workers to take care of their tasks until it’s time for their row or department to move can be an even more efficient way to upgrade. Successful restack businesses know better; don’t count on this unless your business specifically trains flexible technicians who know how to juggle their files between machines if something goes wrong.

A managed IT services team can help you set up the restack and create a better way to handle the transition. If your businesses use a virtual machine (VM) server or cloud computing services, you can use any generic laptop or tablet to connect to your virtual computers and perform tasks with as little interruption as possible.

Even if your business can’t switch to virtualization right now, using managed IT services for emergency backups can help you save your data in case the migration doesn’t go well, or if you change plans and need to work on temporary systems while designing a new system.

Contact us to discuss how we can help you prepare for your new technology.
Are Your Documents Digitized Yet?
April 5, 2019 4:42 pm Leave a Comment
There are many problems with paper documents that businesses today don’t have to worry about. Digitizing these documents has an enormous number of benefits that are well worth the digitizing process.

Save Money and Space

Storing items costs money for every business. The more space you need for your stored documents, the more you will pay. It also costs money to have people dealing with the filing that has to be done to store those documents. The loss of productivity that comes from employees taking their time to print and arrange them also costs the business money. Scanning them into the computer means that none of that is necessary. It saves an enormous amount of space as well as employee time. There will no longer be a long retrieval time needed for a file to be found and brought back to the desks of employees. That loss of productivity alone is worth document scanning to have your files available digitally.

Keep Documents Accessible

When documents have been scanned and digitized, they are easily accessible by anyone who needs them. It takes away the real possibility of files being misplaced or accidentally thrown away. When they are instantly accessible, it’s easy to find all of the information you need from one or multiple documents in just seconds. It also makes company travel easier. You no longer have to retrieve many documents and carry them with you.

Security Concerns

Paper documents are easily stolen in an office. They can be copied or simply placed in a bag and carried out. When the documents have been digitized, it’s far easier to keep them limited only to those who should have access to them. And, there’s no risk of having them stolen from the company’s trash cans. It’s a great way to add more security to your data to avoid theft.

When you want document scanning and organization, contact us to find out more. We’re ready to help you stay better organized and your documents safer.
Managed Print Benefits for All Businesses
March 28, 2019 7:37 pm Leave a Comment
Managed print services typically supervise all of your print provisions, including device hardware, maintenance, service, and supplies. Print management is a great way to consolidate print costs and streamline your print environment, making it easier to run and supervise. MPS is no longer expensive and unwieldy to roll out; it is an essential solution with many benefits for any business.

Sustainable Solution

By tracking your print activity, managed print lets you know how much you are printing, if there are areas of waste and highlights the potential for cutting back. This is a great way to reduce paper waste as well as conserve toner and electricity usage — saving money and reducing emissions.

Financial Benefits

When it comes to managed print, most businesses agree that the financial savings are top-notch. The all-inclusive nature of print management means that your costs are bundled, saving you on supplies, service, maintenance, and more. Plus, you reduce expenses by eliminating the need for emergency repairs and troubleshooting. Consolidating print expenses eliminates stressful cost estimating and eases budget concerns.

Oversight and Control

Beyond financial savings, MPS helps businesses eliminate time and aggravation with simple oversight, automated notifications, increased control, and more. Never worry about running out of toner or ink again — with print monitoring, we will notify it is running low and send you more before it is even an issue for your business.

IT Assistance

Even if you have a great IT support team on staff, they probably have many other issues to deal with other than overseeing the functionality of your copiers and printers. Using a managed print provider frees up your IT resources, allowing your tech experts to focus on other technology pursuits. Contact us for more information on managed services.
Top 5 Tips for Selecting a Multifunction Printer
March 22, 2019 2:14 pm Leave a Comment
By now you probably know that multifunction printers are an indispensable device for any business. Since MFPs consolidate the need for multiple devices, they are particularly critical for small-to-medium businesses with limited space and budgets.

If you are in the market to improve workflows, reduces expenses, and streamline print processes, here are the top 5 tips for selecting a multifunction printer.
1. Know Your Needs Assess your print requirements and pinpoint what you need your MFP to do daily, besides just print. These devices have endless capabilities, but be sure you are focusing on your primary needs and not sacrificing your budget.
2. Total Cost of Ownership When you are evaluating a potential MFP, don’t just look at the initial cost, understand the total costs of ownership (TCO) as well as the cost/value benefits of the device. TCO can vary based on supplies, maintenance, service, and functionality.
3. Network Connections Take your current network into consideration and how difficult or easy it will be to integrate your new device into that network. Also, factor in whether or not you have a managed IT service plan or managed print program to assist with that transition or if you must rely on your in-house IT support.
4. Multitasking Capabilities Don’t let the name multifunction printer mislead you. Sure, they have multiple capabilities, but make your device can multitask in the way your business requires. Be cautious of an MFP that offers numerous functions but cannot perform them simultaneously, resulting in slowdowns and bottlenecks.
5. Security Concerns Once you connect your MFP to your network, that does not mean it is secure. When it comes to business security, you must protect your network as well as your printers and copiers — if one is vulnerable, both are. Be sure to understand the security capabilities of the device you are acquiring to ensure your business data is protected.
Read more about the many benefits of a multifunction printer and how it can help your business.
Assessing Your Managed IT Services for 2019
March 15, 2019 5:13 pm Leave a Comment
Now that we are well into the new year, it is a great time to take a look at your 2019 IT program. Here are some pointers for assessing how well your managed IT services are performing so far in 2019.
1. Is Your Tech Doing What It Should? Slow networks and repeated errors are a good indication that your tech is not performing as it should be. Not only do persistent setbacks inhibit productivity, but they also lead to stress and frustration. If you are dealing with these issues, either is it time to upgrade or overhaul your current IT services.
2. Are You Managing Your IT? If you do not have a managed IT services provider — and are handling it in-house — finding an affordable provider is critical. Dealing with IT emergencies ad-hock is an inconvenient, expensive, and outdated approach. Managing your tech is a much better approach to streamlining processes and saving money.
3. Do You Have a Backup Plan? When people think of disaster recovery, they often imaging putting their business back together after a natural disaster like a hurricane or fire. While those are certainly disasters that require a backup plan, so too do hardware failures or network breaches. Essentially any threat to your data security requires an emergency backup plan to get you back on your feet after the fact.
4. Are Things Running Smoothly? The whole point of modern technology is to make your life easier. So, if your current systems are not working, look for opportunities for improvement. Chances are that there is a solution, application, device, or product available that will help streamline your business systems. Do you need help wrangling in your print costs? If, so managed print services will help curtail waste and cut costs.
Answering these questions is a great way to assess how well your current systems align with your overall business goals. If you need help with managed IT services, backup services, managed print, or more, contact us today to get started.
Sharp Expands A4 Lineup With Two New Desktop Color Multifunction Printers For The Technology Driven Workplace
March 7, 2019 1:35 am Comments Off on Sharp Expands A4 Lineup With Two New Desktop Color Multifunction Printers For The Technology Driven Workplace
MONTVALE, N.J., March 5, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today introduced two new A4 desktop color multifunction printers for the technology driven workplace, delivering strong workflow capabilities and leading-edge security features, all in a compact design. The new Advanced Series MX-C304W and Essentials Series MX-C303W boast full multifunction capability out of the box, including copy, print, scan and fax, as well as wireless networking for easy access from mobile devices.

The new models also share Sharp’s award-winning, easy-to-use 7″ (diagonal) touchscreen display, and offer exciting new features including conversational AI. The new MFP Voice feature with Amazon Alexa enables users to interact with the machine by using simple verbal commands. These models also easily integrate with today’s complex network environments and offer quick access to an expanded list of cloud services that include Box and Dropbox, helping businesses manage their workflow with greater efficiency. Additionally, Adobe Embedded Print Engine technology enables users to direct print PDF files from a variety of sources with greater performance and rendering accuracy. Sharp’s new Application Portal, available in the Spring of 2019, will allow administrators to easily add new applications and update existing ones right from the touchscreen of the MFP.

“We’re excited to introduce these new desktop color multifunction printers that offer a strong set of standard features and deliver high functionality right out of the box,” said Shane Coffey, vice president, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Sharp remains focused on providing high-quality MFPs that are feature rich, easy-to-use and highly secure. Our new desktop color models continue this trend and complement our full line of Sharp multifunction products.”

The MX-C304W and MX-C303W desktop color multifunction printers are available for immediate purchase via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales channels with shipments planned for the last week of March 2019.
Finding the Right Printer or Scanner for Your Business Needs
March 6, 2019 3:56 pm Leave a Comment
Staying up to date on technology does not just mean having the latest print device. It means making sure you have the best printer or scanner for your needs and your budget. Often that means a multifunction printer with faxing and document scanning capabilities. You might already have a great printer, but if it is not the best suited for your office needs it can cost you more in the long run.

Here are some guidelines to help you determine what type of office equipment you need:

Print Needs

They type of documents you print weighs heavily when selecting a printer or MFP. Do you need to print high-quality color photos or do you tend to print mostly text? What about color versus black-and-white? Before you look at printer options, you should determine the type of jobs your device needs to produce. There are myriad options, including wide-format and production printers.

Scanning Needs Additional Needs

What do you need your printer to do besides just print? In addition to printing, faxing, and scanning, MFPs have lots of finishing options like duplex print, collating, stapling, and more. Again, assess your needs. You might like to have all of the fancy bells and whistles, but unless you really need them, you can save money on a simple model.

MFPs are best for moderate scanning, so if you do a lot of scanning or are transitioning to a digital document platform, consider a dedicated scanner that can handle a substantial workload. Document scanning apps and software make it easy for you to scan stacks of paper and save them in a secure digital format.

If you are a small-to-mid-sized business in a small office, space can be an important consideration. If you don’t have room for several devices, a high-quality, color multifunction printer may be the best option. This multitasker can handle copying, printing, faxing, and scanning all within an office-friendly small footprint.

Contact us for more advice on finding the perfect printer for your business.
Lexmark Cloud Services Receives Prestigious 2019 Pick Award
February 23, 2019 8:39 pm Comments Off on Lexmark Cloud Services Receives Prestigious 2019 Pick Award
LEXINGTON, Ky., Feb. 20, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that Keypoint Intelligence-Buyers Lab honored Lexmark Cloud Services with a prestigious 2019 Pick of the Year Award for Outstanding Print Environment Management Solution.

Lexmark Cloud Services is a suite of cloud solutions designed to help businesses remove the IT burden of managing their printing infrastructure, and help partners save time and money by managing their customers’ devices remotely. Solutions launched to date include Lexmark Cloud Print Management for the enterprise; Lexmark Cloud Fleet Management for partners; Real-time analytics; and the Lexmark Cloud Connector.

“Buyers Lab analysts and lab technicians looked at dozens of document imaging solutions in the past year, and each of them delivers tangible strengths for its intended market,” noted Jamie Bsales, Director of Solutions Analysis for Keypoint Intelligence. “Those honored with a Pick award proved themselves to be among the best in their categories thanks to an impressive mix of productivity-enhancing features, value for the dollar, ease of use for end users and IT administrators, and other key attributes.”

Lexmark Cloud Services was selected for the award based on:
- Cloud-based architecture that reduces costs and simplifies administration
- Secure pull printing functionality that protects sensitive information in printed documents
- Remote tracking for all print, copy and scan activities across the entire fleet
- An analytics engine that visualizes an array of print, copy and scan usage statistics in real time
- The ability to remotely configure printers, update firmware and embedded software, and restart devices
“This award recognizes the tremendous value Lexmark Cloud Services brings to our customers and partners,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “The ability to provide users with secure print release while eliminating internal print infrastructure aligns with our customers’ cloud-first initiatives. We look forward to delivering exciting new cloud services offerings in the months to come.”

Lexmark Cloud Services was introduced in North America in October 2018 and is available as of today in EMEA and Latin America.
Form and Function: The Many Benefits of a Multifunction Device
February 19, 2019 10:55 pm Leave a Comment
There are a lot of variables involved when it comes to buying a multifunction printer. Of course, the cost is a big factor, but there are many other concerns to keep in mind when you are investing in print equipment.

Here are some things to explore:
- Print Considerations Although an MFP can do much more than just print, printing is most likely to be its primary use in the office on a daily basis. So, when researching a multifunction device for your office, consider how often your employees print and the types of documents that will be printed.
MFPs can print up to thousands of text documents daily, but what types of media are you printing and what style of materials are you printing on? If your needs are basic, a black-and-white option might work for you, but businesses with more sophisticated needs can opt for a full-color device that can create cutting-edge digital prints.
- Copying and Scanning Depending on your specific business, copying is likely the second most popular usage. Multifunction printers can create high-quality copies in color or black-and-white, single-sided or duplex. Just as with printing, MFPs support a wide range of paper types.
Scanning is another huge benefit of a multifunction device. Capture high-resolution images and text and send to pre-approved contacts directly from your printer or save them to your network. Document scanning often eliminates the outdated method of faxing documents — simply scan and email images, text files, and more.
- Network Connections With networking capabilities, multifunction printers let you print from desktops connected to a server, USB connection, or wirelessly. Since so many different employees work from various devices, this valuable feature allows access from desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Businesses no longer just run from the office, connected devices, and networked printers are a must in the current climate.
- Cost Considerations The total cost of ownership is an important thing to consider when choosing a multifunction printer. TCO includes the cost of the machines as well as the expense of supplies, maintenance, and more. Managed print services are a great way to secure your print environment and ensure costs don’t spiral out of control.
Ready for an MFP or have questions on managed print? Answers are just a click away!.
Lexmark Extends Enterprise Strength into SMB Market with Two-Series Product Line
February 1, 2019 12:35 am Comments Off on Lexmark Extends Enterprise Strength into SMB Market with Two-Series Product Line
LEXINGTON, Ky., Jan. 29, 2019 — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced it is bringing its enterprise scale strengths to a new line of printers designed for the SMB market. The Lexmark Two Series is designed for micro-workgroups looking to simply and securely print, copy, fax and scan, all within a compact and easy-to-use device.

Typically ranging from two to four people, micro-workgroups include small businesses, start-ups, and branch offices or franchises. Two monochrome products in the line were launched today—the single function Lexmark B2236dw and the multi-function Lexmark MB2236adw with additional scanning, copying and faxing functionality.

“No matter the size of the organization, Lexmark is committed to helping our customers minimize the cost and IT burden of their printers,” said Sammy Kinlaw, Lexmark vice president, worldwide channel and OEM sales. “Small businesses can’t afford to waste time or money updating their IT equipment every year. Lexmark intentionally engineered these devices to be tough workhorses, packed with power and speed, and built to last.”

Micro-workgroups and small businesses remain an important growing segment, with ADP/Moody’s Analytics reporting that 89,000 small business positions were added in December 2018 alone. Marking Lexmark’s entry into this segment, the printers launched today feature rapid monochrome output up to 36 pages per minute, plus standard two-sided printing. Standard Wi-Fi offers enhanced connectivity and support for mobile users, while Lexmark’s full-spectrum security ensures the same level of award-winning security and protection typically reserved for enterprise-class devices.

Together, the two devices provide high performance in a lightweight, compact design. Easy to move or tuck into tight spaces, the Lexmark B2236dw comes in at just 15 pounds, while the multi-function Lexmark MB2236adw weighs 22 pounds. In addition to printing, the MB2236adw also scans up to 25 pages per minute.

“Despite their small size and weight, we’ve retained the signature Lexmark features that our customers know and love. This includes extending Lexmark’s enterprise-class full-spectrum security to the SMB market, as well as standard Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity,” said Chris White, Lexmark director of product marketing. “With energy management features to reduce power consumption, these printers are friendly both to the environment and small business budgets.”

These devices will be sold through the Lexmark Global Partner network and can be ordered directly from global distributors such as CDW, Staples, Fry’s, Printerland and more.

Lexmark Two Series monochrome printers are available in the U.S. today. Check your preferred reseller for pricing.

Lexmark expects to announce availability of additional Two Series devices later this year.
IDC MarketScape Names Lexmark a Worldwide Leader in Managed Print and Document Services
January 18, 2019 1:38 am Comments Off on IDC MarketScape Names Lexmark a Worldwide Leader in Managed Print and Document Services
Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that it has been recognized as a Leader by IT market research and advisory firm IDC in its IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Contractual Print and Document Services Hardcopy 2018–2019 Vendor Assessment (doc # US44387318, December 2018).

Lexmark has been a leader in IDC MarketScapes looking at managed print and document services, workflow services, and print security services over the past several years. The latest report cites Lexmark as being “in a strong position to effectively address and manage customer environments and drive real digital transformation.”

In naming Lexmark a leader, the report states, “Lexmark continues to separate itself from competitors through its vertical market approach and consistent global service delivery.” The report adds, “Combined with investments in cloud, IoT, and data analytics, Lexmark is creating a global service delivery platform designed to keep pace with evolving workplace dynamics.”

The IDC MarketScape suggests organizations consider Lexmark “when looking for vertical-specific expertise in a wide variety of markets and applications” as well as “when considering programs that focus in key areas such as print infrastructure, security, and process optimization.”

“We intentionally engineer hardware, solutions and services as seamless integrated systems that deliver a more simplified, secure and productive print environment,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “We are proud that the IDC MarketScape recognizes the value we deliver to our customers.”

With a 95% managed print services contract renewal rate and IDC MarketScape leadership recognition in hardware, security and services categories, customers across the globe can be confident in choosing Lexmark.
Konica Minolta to Globally Release Dispatcher Suite, a Print Management and Advanced Scan Workflow Solution
January 14, 2019 3:38 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta to Globally Release Dispatcher Suite, a Print Management and Advanced Scan Workflow Solution
Tokyo (January 10, 2019) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) will globally release Dispatcher Suite, software developed by Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., an affiliated company in the U.S. , in partnership with Y Soft Corporation.

Overview
Dispatcher Suite is a software package that consists of Dispatcher Paragon, an integrated print management solution, and Dispatcher Phoenix, an award-winning process automation application.
This new software suite is an integrated print management and process automation solution that was independently developed by Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., which operates in IT-advanced countries, and by Y Soft, in order to identify and solve print and process issues for its customers.
Dispatcher Suite will be released after January 2019 in the U.S., Europe, and other countries.

Value Proposition
Office workers are engaged in complicated manual tasks such as collecting, inputting, processing, saving, and distributing files in their daily operations. Dispatcher Suite helps automate routine tasks.
Specifically, these tasks can be automated by clicking buttons that are customized for automation.

Dispatcher Suite also helps ID authentication management of printing and scanning at an office, as well as aggregation and management of status data to enhance security, improve workflow productivity, and cut expenses. It is an integrated solution offering single sign on and the same “look and feel” at the MFP for both print management and advanced scanning capabilities.

Features of Dispatcher Suite
1. Automation of document processing and sorting by Dispatcher Phoenix
Dispatcher Phoenix efficiently automates the processing of documents created in daily operations at an office. For example, when a contract is scanned by an all-in-one (to create an electronic file), it can be automatically converted to text data using OCR. Attributes can be automatically assigned to a file, which is then automatically sorted and stored in a designated folder based on the attributes. Dispatcher Phoenix was nominated as a finalist in the IT Software category of the World Technology Awards under the auspices of the World Technology Network (WTN) in the U.S.

2. Print management function achieved by Dispatcher Paragon
A printing environment suitable for tasks can be managed. For example, a printing policy for cost reduction can be created. When printing email documents, an optimal printing environment such as black-and-white double-sided printing can be created and managed.
Leakage of confidential information can be audited by monitoring overall user trends based on tracking and analysis of user, division, or place.

3. Security measures offered by Dispatcher Paragon
The use of all-in-ones and printers at an office can be managed using the user information managed by a server by linking the IC card information used in employee IDs with Active Directory® and LDAP.
Dispatcher Paragon also supports two-factor authentication systems using “an IC card and a PIN code” or “an IC card and a password.” Users are required to hold a card over a reader when printing a document. This helps prevent information leakage due to a failure to take a printed document

4. Flexible system configuration
Centralized management can be ensured for single-site operation, multiple environments in and outside a country, or even a large-scale environment. The solution also supports cloud-based system configurations such as Microsoft Azure and Amazon AWS. Respective customers can introduce an optimal system for their office environment.

Under the brand proposition “Giving Shape to Ideas,” Konica Minolta remains committed to creating new value through offering services that integrate IT with document management from the viewpoint of customers.
Sharp Earns Buyers Lab 2019 Copier MFP Line of the Year Award
January 11, 2019 2:39 am Comments Off on Sharp Earns Buyers Lab 2019 Copier MFP Line of the Year Award
MONTVALE, N.J., Jan. 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today announces that it is has earned the Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab 2019 Copier MFP Line of the Year. Presented annually by the world’s leading authority on document imaging devices and software solutions, Buyers Lab’s highly sought-after Line of the Year recognition is awarded to the multifunction printer (MFP) manufacturer whose product line is deemed best overall based on its rigorous two-month laboratory evaluations. Among the many factors considered are reliability, image quality, productivity, ease of use, a host of connectivity attributes and overall value.

“Sharp’s copier MFPs have long been known for their quality, innovation, and ease of use, and their current line holds up to that standard,” said George Mikolay, Associate Director of Copiers/Production, Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab. “In fact, Sharp’s current line sets the industry standard when it comes to usability. The control panels are highly intuitive and customizable on a user-by-user basis, and users can quickly access the most commonly used scan and copy functions. Throw in the easy-to-use drivers, the retractable keyboard, and the innovative, award-winning web utility, and building workflows is a cinch for walk-up users and IT administrators alike. Plus, in an office environment where reliability day in and day out is also a key factor, Sharp’s line stands tall as a leader in the industry.”

Product Line of the Year is the highest level recognition Buyers Lab awards to an MFP manufacturer. In order to qualify, a manufacturer must have models tested by Buyers Lab in various categories, including A3, A4, monochrome and color. Additionally, for all models tested, the vendor must achieve a high number of Pick Awards. Announced twice a year, the Pick Awards acknowledge the products that gave the best performances in Buyers Lab’s extensive suite of laboratory tests.

Sharp earned the following Buyers Lab Pick Awards over the past year:
- Outstanding 30 ppm Copier MFP – Sharp MX-M3070 (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding 35 ppm Copier MFP – Sharp MX-M3570 (Summer 2018)
- Outstanding 40 ppm Copier MFP – Sharp MX-M4070 (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding 50 ppm Copier MFP – Sharp MX-M5070 (Summer 2018)
- Outstanding 60 ppm Copier MFP – Sharp MX-M6070 (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding 90 ppm Copier MFP – Sharp MX-M905 (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding 65 ppm Color Copier MFP – Sharp MX-6580N (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding 75 ppm Color Copier MFP – Sharp MX-7580N (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding Professional High Volume 70-ppm Color Copier MFP – Sharp MX-7090N (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding Professional High Volume 80-ppm Color Copier MFP – Sharp MX-8090N (Winter 2019
- Outstanding MFP for SMBs – Sharp MX-B355W (Winter 2019)
- Outstanding MFP for Mid-Size Workgroups – Sharp MX-B455W (Summer 2018)
“We are extremely honored to have earned the coveted distinction of Copier MFP Line of the Year from Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “This award, as well as the twelve Pick Awards we have earned over the past year for our individual MFP models, emphasize our unwavering dedication to delivering best-in-class solutions that help our customers meet their business needs while delivering high-quality results efficiently, effectively and securely.”
Sharp Introduces New Line Of Color Multifunction Printers For The Technology-Driven Workplace
December 15, 2018 3:36 am Comments Off on Sharp Introduces New Line Of Color Multifunction Printers For The Technology-Driven Workplace
MONTVALE, N.J., Dec. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today introduced a new line of Advanced and Essentials Series color document systems for the technology-driven workplace. The eleven new models include seven that are available now, and four models that will be available in early summer 2019. All the new models offer Sharp’s award-winning, easy-to-use touchscreen display, which is common across 30+ models in Sharp’s multifunction printer lineup, and add exciting new features for conversational AI, cloud integration and security enhancements.

The new MFP Voice feature, powered by Amazon Alexa, enables users to interact with the machine by using simple verbal commands. These new color models also easily integrate with today’s complex network environments and offer quick access to an expanded list of cloud services that include Box and Dropbox. Additionally, Adobe Embedded Print Engine technology enables users to direct print PDF files from a variety of sources with greater performance and rendering accuracy. Sharp’s new Application Portal, available in the Spring 2019, will allow administrators to easily add new applications and update existing ones right from the touchscreen of the machine. Additionally, the new models are equipped with enhanced productivity features, such as the ability to feed up to 50 envelopes from the standard paper drawer.

The new color Advanced and Essentials Series also deliver leading edge security features, such as a firmware attack prevention and a self-recovery capability, which can identify a malicious intrusion and restore the machine firmware to its original state. A new whitelisting feature helps protects the machines’ file system from unauthorized access. Additionally, administrators can centrally manage select settings at the device using Active Directory® Group Policy.

“This is an exciting time at Sharp, as we roll out a new line of color workgroup MFPs that offer greater integration, enhanced workflow capability, and voice integration to meet the demands of today’s technology-driven workplace,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Our focus continues to be to provide quality MFPs that deliver superior productivity, performance and ease-of-use. We’re proud to continue that tradition with this new lineup of color Advanced and Essentials series models.”

These following seven models are available to ship immediately via authorized Sharp dealer and direct sales channels:

Advanced Series:
- MX-3071 – 30 ppm; replaces the MX-3070V
- MX-3571 – 35 ppm; replaces the MX-3570V
- MX-4071 – 40 ppm; replaces the MX-4070V
Essentials Series:
- MX-2651 – 26 ppm; replaces the MX-2630N
- MX-3051 – 30 ppm; replaces the MX-3050V
- MX-3551 – 35 ppm; replaces the MX-3550V
- MX-4051 – 40 ppm; replaces the MX-4050V
Sharp will add four more models to the lineup coming in early summer 2019. In the Advanced Series, the MX-5071 and MX-6071 replace the MX-5070V and MX-6070V. Rounding out the Essentials Series will be the MX-5051 and MX-6051, replacing the MX-5050V and MX-6050V.
Konica Minolta Earns Honor with the U-Bix 480 Certified as a Copying Machine Heritage
December 5, 2018 12:36 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Earns Honor with the U-Bix 480 Certified as a Copying Machine Heritage
Tokyo (November 28, 2018) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) is pleased to announce that the U-Bix 480, which was Japan’s first indirect dry type electrophotographic copying machine, manufactured using domestic technology by Konishiroku Photo Industry Co., Ltd., a former company of Konica Minolta, was certified as a “Copying Machine Heritage” established by the Imaging Society of Japan (ISJ).

The U-Bix 480, the first PPC copying machine (plain paper copying machine) of Konishiroku Photo Industry, was introduced at a business show in 1970 and released in January 1971. The machine was a sensation because it was Japan’s first indirect dry type electrophotographic copying machine using domestic technology and produced beautiful, fine images at half the copying cost of conventional machines. The copying machine was so popular that Konishiroku Photo Industry struggled to keep up with production. Since then, copying machines have been one of Konica Minolta’s leading products along with cameras and films.

The ISJ’s high recognition of the U-Bix 480 manufactured about 50 years ago as a historically valuable technology and product is an encouragement to Konica Minolta, which is determined to keep creating products and services that offer new values to customers and society through the ongoing digital transformation.
Lexmark Honored with 2018 CRN® Tech Innovator Award
November 14, 2018 2:35 am Comments Off on Lexmark Honored with 2018 CRN® Tech Innovator Award
LEXINGTON, Ky., Nov. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, announced today that CRN,® a brand of The Channel Company, has recognized Lexmark with a 2018 CRN Tech Innovator Award. These annual awards honor standout hardware, software and services that are moving the IT industry forward. In compiling the 2018 Tech Innovator Award list, CRN editors evaluated 300 products across 34 technology categories using several criteria, including technological advancements, uniqueness of features and potential to help solution providers solve end users’ IT challenges. Lexmark’s MC2425adw Color Laser MFP took top honors in the Printer category.

The Lexmark MC2425adw Color Laser MFP packs reliable, productive and secure color multifunction performance into a small-footprint package with output up to 25 pages per minute. It reliably handles diverse media types and sizes and comes equipped with both built-in Wi-Fi and tools to help customers minimize toner consumption.

“Taking the top honor in the printer category for the 2018 CRN Tech Innovator Award is a highlight of my first year here at Lexmark,” said Sammy Kinlaw, Lexmark vice president, worldwide channel and OEM sales. “Lexmark designs devices for the long haul, delivering longevity, durability and serviceability that drives success for our channel partners. An award of this magnitude expands our reach and consideration and highlights Lexmark’s innovation.”

“Each year, the CRN Tech Innovator Awards recognize technology vendor offerings that are reshaping the IT channel landscape by increasing worker productivity, reducing cost, and minimizing complexity for solution providers, IT departments, and end users,” said Bob Skelley, CEO of The Channel Company. “The winners in this year’s awards bring breakthrough ideas to the table for solution providers and their customers, in areas ranging from cloud to security to business intelligence to IoT. We congratulate all the winners and look forward to their future endeavors.”

The Tech Innovator Awards will be featured in the December issue of CRN and can be viewed online at crn.com/techinnovators.
Sharp To Showcase Latest Pro Series Color Document Systems At PRINT 18
September 28, 2018 1:42 am Comments Off on Sharp To Showcase Latest Pro Series Color Document Systems At PRINT 18
MONTVALE, N.J., Sept. 26, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) is pleased to be a part of PRINT 18, where it will highlight its newest Pro Series models at the annual gathering of print and graphic communications professionals.

Sharp is proud to showcase at PRINT 18 the Pro Series MX-8090N Color Document System, which will be configured with the high-powered MX-PE13 EFI® Fiery® Print Server featuring the latest FS300 Pro platform. This highly reliable workhorse will be outfitted with the Plockmatic Production Booklet finisher, showcasing Sharp’s award winning edge-to-edge printing feature which allows full-bleed booklets up to 120 pages be printed and finished in-line with professional results.

The 80 page per minute (ppm) MX-8090N and its 70 ppm counterpart, the MX-7090N, round out Sharp’s production product lineup. These models offer exclusive, full integration of Fiery® Command Workstation® at the operation panel. This further enhances the ease of use and precision control Sharp brings to the production market when configured with the MX-PE13 Fiery Print Server. The groundbreaking edge-to-edge printing capability makes these models a “must see” at the event.

“The Sharp team is excited to once again return to Chicago for PRINT 18, where we have an excellent opportunity to demo our latest products to existing and potential customers,” said Kent Villarreal, Senior Product Manager, Product Planning and Marketing, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Our Pro Series additions represent the newest in technology from Sharp in the Print-On-Demand space and we’re sure they will spark great interest at the show with their ease-of-use, high quality and precision control.”

For those customers not requiring a Fiery print server, the MX-7090N and MX-8090N standard print controllers now include Pantone Licensing as part of Sharp’s continued focus on color matching. These models add to the long list of MFPs offered from Sharp that are Pantone licensed. Through PANTONE® Color Matching, Sharp MFPs are easily able to reproduce colors from the PANTONE Coated Series of colors without the expense or required expertise that sometimes comes with optional software or hardware. There are now a total of 16 current Sharp color models with this capability, including the new models.

Come visit Sharp and speak to a Fiery Certified Expert. All Sharp print production managers have achieved the highest level of training attainable through EFI. This provides direct access to EFI support engineers and helps to guarantee the best possible support to Sharp’s customers. This world-class support is essential for production and Fiery-connected environments, where productivity is a must. Sharp’s print production managers will be on-site at PRINT 18 to answer questions and provide demos on the newest products.

Sharp is exhibiting at PRINT 18 in booth #1419, from September 30 – October 2, in Chicago.
Sharp Introduces New High-Speed Multifunction Copiers For Busy Workgroups And Departmental Environments
September 8, 2018 10:47 pm Comments Off on Sharp Introduces New High-Speed Multifunction Copiers For Busy Workgroups And Departmental Environments
MONTVALE, N.J., Sept. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today announces two new high-speed monochrome document systems for busy workgroups and departmental environments.

The new MX-M6570 and MX-7570 multifunction copiers offer print speeds up to 65 and 75 pages per minute respectively, and are designed for demanding customers that need superior performance. Both models offer an easy-to-use 10″ (diagonally measured) touchscreen display with tablet-style menu navigation. The new models also integrate easily with popular network applications and cloud services to help businesses manage their workflow more easily.

The new MX-M6570 and MX-7570 also offer a variety of paper handling and finishing options to accommodate all types of business needs. Advanced options include a multi-folding unit that can produce five different types of folds, enabling users to create professional-looking pamphlets that get results. A standard wireless connectivity feature enables users to print from mobile devices using the free Sharpdesk® Mobile app.

“We’re excited to introduce these new high speed models in the Sharp product line,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Sharp continues to drive innovation in the office by developing new document system products that raise the bar for multifunction copiers and printers.”

The new MX-M6570 and MX-M7570 Advanced Series monochrome document systems replace the MX-M654 and MX-M754 models in the Sharp lineup and are available immediately for purchase via authorized dealers and direct sales.
Sharp Introduces New Desktop Printers For The Advanced Office
August 25, 2018 11:43 pm Comments Off on Sharp Introduces New Desktop Printers For The Advanced Office
MONTVALE, N.J., Aug. 24, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) announces four new additions to its desktop multifunction printer line, which include two monochrome desktop printers and two monochrome desktop copiers.

The new MX-B350P and MX-B450P desktop printers offer speeds up to 35 and 45 pages per minute respectively, with easy integration with the leading mobile technologies, allowing for easy printing from tablets and smart phones. Taking into account today’s mobile workforce, these new models also offer an intuitive user experience, as well as a compact footprint and wireless capability, making them easy to place in virtually any size office environment.

With the new MX-B350W and MX-B450W multifunction printers (MFPs), Sharp is bringing an economical MFP offering to the market while at the same time providing outstanding print quality, out-of-the box copying, network printing, and network scanning and faxing capabilities.

All four desktop models can print on letter, legal and statement size paper, as well as envelopes. The products also comply with the latest EnergyStar® standards and deliver a low cost per page, making them very economical to operate.

“We’re excited to announce these new models in the Sharp desktop product line,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Sharp continues to drive innovation by creating new offerings that raise the bar for entry level print and MFP devices.”

The new MX-B350P/MX-B450P desktop printers and MX-B350W/MX-B450W multifunction printers will be available for purchase in early September 2018 via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales.
Better Buys Honors More Lexmark Devices
11:43 pm Comments Off on Better Buys Honors More Lexmark Devices
Aug 22, 2018

Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that another series of its new products has been honored by Better Buys, a leading market intelligence firm. The new CX625 Series of multi-function printers earned a Better Buys Q3 2018 Editor’s Choice award in the color MFP category.

“With strong features that include versatile paper handling, extra-high-yield replacement cartridges and the e-Task touch screen, the CX625 Series is a good buy for small-to-medium-sized offices,” said Melissa Pardo-Bunte, Editor, Better Buys.

Each product in the series was individually evaluated by Better Buys and compared against the competition on a range of criteria including unique features, value to the customer, and price.

Better Buys commends the CX625 Series for its tiltable 7″ e-Task touch screen, extra-high-yield replacement toner, and standard hard drive in CX625adhe configuration.

“We are proud to have these new products recognized by the experts at Better Buys,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “Lexmark has refreshed more than 90% of our product offering this year, including the new CX625 Series. These new devices help our customers become more efficient and productive with a consistent, intuitive user experience, mobile connectivity, easy business process automation, full-spectrum security and seamless access to a growing library of solutions to meet the most demanding business requirements.”

In May, the Lexmark MX520 Series and MX620 Series received Better Buys’ Editor’s Choice Award for 2Q 2018 in the black-and-white MFP and high-volume machines categories, respectively.
Lexmark Introduces New Generation of A4 Color and Large Workgroup Monochrome Printers and MFPs
July 26, 2018 2:36 am Comments Off on Lexmark Introduces New Generation of A4 Color and Large Workgroup Monochrome Printers and MFPs
LEXINGTON, Ky., July 23, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, recently announced the availability of a new generation of A4 color and large workgroup monochrome printers and multi-function products (MFPs) that bring an unparalleled combination of reliability, productivity and security to business users.

“Lexmark is pleased to introduce this extensive line-up of new devices which feature improved performance and consumable yields, resulting in more up time, fewer interventions and improvements in total cost of ownership,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer.

“These new devices are designed to be reliable, productive and more secure additions to business IT assets,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “IT will appreciate the longevity, durability and serviceability of these devices, while users will appreciate the high-quality color or monochrome output, state of the art power and performance, and easy to use features.”

These new A4 color (CS421dn, CS521dn, CS622de, CX421adn, CX522ade, CX620 Series and CX625 Series) and large workgroup mono (MS725 Series, MS820 Series, MX720 Series and MX820 Series) devices are equipped with major feature enhancements that drive down total cost of ownership:

RELIABILITY: These new devices are built to last, with durable steel frames, long life components and other design features that ensure device longevity and stability for years of reliable performance in even the harshest environments.

PERFORMANCE: Powerful multicore processors and increased memory levels deliver brainpower that “future proofs” these devices by accommodating firmware upgrades over time. It also ensures these new devices effortlessly render even the most complex print jobs and enables complex multi-tasking, such as sending a fax while printing with optical character recognition (OCR) rendering in the background.

EASE OF USE: e-Task, Lexmark’s modern, tablet-like user interface, allows for unparalleled simplicity and ease of use across the entire portfolio, with displays up to 10 inches on the large workgroup monochrome devices.

QUALITY OUTPUT: Lexmark Color Replacement is featured on the color products, so customers can accurately print corporate logos or any specific colors needed in their most sensitive documents—all with improved consumable yields.

FLEXIBILITY: A full range of color and monochrome devices have been launched in 2018, to meet user needs throughout the enterprise. From entry color devices starting at 25 pages per minute with 250 pages of input, to solutions-enabled devices with up to 7-inch class e-Task interface, built-in hard disks, duplexing automatic document feeder (DADF) scanners, and pre-installed optical character recognition (OCR), as well as a full suite of new monochrome devices built for small, mid and large workgroups within the enterprise.

SECURITY: Lexmark’s award-winning full spectrum security features help protect documents, devices and networks from unauthorized access and are fully integrated into every product in the series. Consistent, upgradable protections across the product portfolio help you control access, secure hard disk data, protect operating systems and prevent network hacks.

MOBILITY: These new devices offer a variety of mobile print options, enabling workers to complete tasks via approved mobile devices with the free Lexmark Mobile Print app. Output is also available via AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Mopria or Windows Mobile.

ANALYTICS: For Managed Print Services customers, these new devices can be equipped with sensors that capture highly detailed vital system information such as engine voltage, fan speeds and fuser temperature ramps. When any of these metrics fall out of spec it could mean an upcoming failure that needs intervention OR it could simply mean that a setting is wrong. Advance notice helps minimize interventions and keep staff productive.

SUSTAINABILITY: As expected from Lexmark, these devices meet the most stringent global environmental requirements.

“With this extensive launch, Lexmark has refreshed much of our product offering in 2018, ensuring our customers are prepared to leverage the latest imaging technology to move their businesses forward,” Waugerman added.
Sharp Wins Coveted BLI Reliability Award Plus Four Additional Awards For Its Highly Successful MFP Lineup
July 18, 2018 11:38 pm Comments Off on Sharp Wins Coveted BLI Reliability Award Plus Four Additional Awards For Its Highly Successful MFP Lineup
MONTVALE, N.J., July 16, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today announces that it has received a total of five awards from Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab (BLI), including the award for “Most Reliable Monochrome Copier MFP Brand.” Presented once every three years, this award honors the manufacturer whose product line is determined to be the most reliable based on the combined results of all models subjected to BLI’s rigorous testing.

In terms of monochrome reliability, Sharp was the clear choice, according to Joe Ellerman, Manager of Lab Operations for Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab. “All of the Sharp monochrome copiers we’ve tested to date have excelled when it comes to reliability,” said Ellerman. “Over the past five years, Sharp’s monochrome models have completed millions of impressions without a single service call, making them the most reliable choice among their peers.”

Sharp also earned the 2018 Buyers Lab “PaceSetter Award in Ease of Use for Enterprise Devices.” The PaceSetter Award is based on research conducted in the enterprise market as well as testing in the BLI lab. The award recognizes manufacturers that have incorporated end-to-end ease of use, from loading paper and copying, to scanning, printing, misfeed removal, job management and more. Sharp offers nearly thirty models in its lineup with a common user experience and consistent feature set.

In addition to these two high profile awards, Sharp also earned three BLI Pick awards. Announced twice a year, the Pick awards acknowledge the products that gave the best performances in BLI’s extensive suite of laboratory tests in the previous six months. Sharp received Pick awards for “Outstanding 35-ppm Copier MFP” for its MX-M3570 Advanced Series monochrome workgroup document system and for “Outstanding 50-ppm Copier MFP” for its MX-M5070 Advanced Series monochrome workgroup document system. Sharp also received a BLI Pick award for “Outstanding MFP for Mid-size Workgroups” for the MX-B455W 45-ppm letter/legal size, Advanced Series monochrome workgroup document system.

Launched in late 2017, the monochrome Advanced Series models enable users to easily set up and execute workflow tasks. Sharp’s easy-to-use touchscreen display offers an intuitive graphical interface with Easy Copy and Easy Scan screens, as well as quick access to on-board user guides. These models also support popular mobile technologies, including Apple® AirPrint®, Android™ Print Service and Google Cloud Print™. Multi-layered security features help ensure intellectual property and personal information is protected throughout the life of the device.

“As business process automation increases in popularity for enterprises, more and more employees are integrating scanning in their workflows—and they need to do so efficiently,” said George Mikolay, Associate Director of Copiers/Production for Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab. “Sharp fits the bill, with a standard integrated keyboard, making data entry at the MFP as fast as it would be at a computer. In addition to the keyboard, Sharp offers the ability to store preset messages, extensions, and domains as one-touch keys to combat common lags in scanning. The scan preview is easy to navigate and supports onscreen editing.”

“Sharp is very proud to have received these high profile awards from BLI,” said Shane Coffey, Vice President, Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “In particular, earning the ‘Most Reliable Monochrome Copier MFP Brand’ award underscores our commitment to consistently deliver best-in-class products to our customers.”
Keypoint Intelligence Recognizes Lexmark for Outstanding Value in A3 Enterprise Color Printing
11:38 pm Comments Off on Keypoint Intelligence Recognizes Lexmark for Outstanding Value in A3 Enterprise Color Printing
Jul 16, 2018

Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced it was recognized by Keypoint Intelligence-Buyers Lab with a Summer 2018 Pick award for Outstanding A3 Color Printer for Enterprise Environments.

Keypoint Intelligence-Buyers Lab is the world’s leading independent provider of testing services and analytical information to the document imaging industry. Awarded twice annually for office equipment, Picks acknowledge the products that gave the best performances in Buyers Lab’s extensive suite of lab tests in the previous six months.

“The Lexmark CS923de is an excellent choice for higher volume color environments,” said Marlene Orr, Director of Printer & MFP Analysis for Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab. “Delivering superb color quality, excellent reliability, fast speeds, and unparalleled ease of use that busy enterprise users need, the Lexmark CS923de also offers a low cost of ownership, making it an economical choice for users that need larger-format color prints.”

“This recognition further validates our commitment to providing Lexmark customers innovative products and solutions that help propel their business forward,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “We are proud to deliver printers and MFPs that combine quality, reliability, speed and ease of use with a low total cost of ownership.”
Lexmark Introduces New Generation of A4 Color and Large Workgroup Monochrome Printers and MFPs
June 23, 2018 9:35 pm Comments Off on Lexmark Introduces New Generation of A4 Color and Large Workgroup Monochrome Printers and MFPs
LEXINGTON, Ky., June 19, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the availability of a new generation of A4 color and large workgroup monochrome printers and multi-function products (MFPs) that bring an unparalleled combination of reliability, productivity and security to business users.

“Lexmark is pleased to introduce this extensive line-up of new devices which feature improved performance and consumable yields, resulting in more up time, fewer interventions and improvements in total cost of ownership,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer.

“These new devices are designed to be reliable, productive and more secure additions to business IT assets,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “IT will appreciate the longevity, durability and serviceability of these devices, while users will appreciate the high-quality color or monochrome output, state of the art power and performance, and easy to use features.”

These new A4 color (CS421dn, CS521dn, CS622de, CX421adn, CX522ade, CX620 Series and CX625 Series) and large workgroup mono (MS725 Series, MS820 Series, MX720 Series and MX820 Series) devices are equipped with major feature enhancements that drive down total cost of ownership:

RELIABILITY: These new devices are built to last, with durable steel frames, long life components and other design features that ensure device longevity and stability for years of reliable performance in even the harshest environments.

PERFORMANCE: Powerful multicore processors and increased memory levels deliver brainpower that “future proofs” these devices by accommodating firmware upgrades over time. It also ensures these new devices effortlessly render even the most complex print jobs and enables complex multi-tasking, such as sending a fax while printing with optical character recognition (OCR) rendering in the background.

EASE OF USE: e-Task, Lexmark’s modern, tablet-like user interface, allows for unparalleled simplicity and ease of use across the entire portfolio, with displays up to 10 inches on the large workgroup monochrome devices.

QUALITY OUTPUT: Lexmark Color Replacement is featured on the color products, so customers can accurately print corporate logos or any specific colors needed in their most sensitive documents—all with improved consumable yields.

FLEXIBILITY: A full range of color and monochrome devices have been launched in 2018, to meet user needs throughout the enterprise. From entry color devices starting at 25 pages per minute with 250 pages of input, to solutions-enabled devices with up to 7-inch class e-Task interface, built-in hard disks, duplexing automatic document feeder (DADF) scanners, and pre-installed optical character recognition (OCR), as well as a full suite of new monochrome devices built for small, mid and large workgroups within the enterprise.

SECURITY: Lexmark’s award-winning full spectrum security features help protect documents, devices and networks from unauthorized access and are fully integrated into every product in the series. Consistent, upgradable protections across the product portfolio help you control access, secure hard disk data, protect operating systems and prevent network hacks.

MOBILITY: These new devices offer a variety of mobile print options, enabling workers to complete tasks via approved mobile devices with the free Lexmark Mobile Print app. Output is also available via AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Mopria or Windows Mobile.

ANALYTICS: For Managed Print Services customers, these new devices can be equipped with sensors that capture highly detailed vital system information such as engine voltage, fan speeds and fuser temperature ramps. When any of these metrics fall out of spec it could mean an upcoming failure that needs intervention OR it could simply mean that a setting is wrong. Advance notice helps minimize interventions and keep staff productive.

SUSTAINABILITY: As expected from Lexmark, these devices meet the most stringent global environmental requirements.

“With this extensive launch, Lexmark has refreshed much of our product offering in 2018, ensuring our customers are prepared to leverage the latest imaging technology to move their businesses forward,” Waugerman added.
Sharp Adds New Entry-level Workgroup Document System To Monochrome Essentials Series Lineup
June 7, 2018 1:32 am Comments Off on Sharp Adds New Entry-level Workgroup Document System To Monochrome Essentials Series Lineup
MONTVALE, N.J., June 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) today announces the latest model in its line of monochrome workgroup document systems. Offering print speeds of up to 26 pages per minute, the new MX-M2630 monochrome document system is designed for small offices and workgroups that need an MFP with strong multifunction capability that is also a strong value.

The MX-M2630 is built on the same common engine platform as other models in the Monochrome Essentials Series lineup. It offers crisp, high-quality output combined with many standard features and exceptional ease of use. Intuitive menu navigation on the MX-M2630 makes it easy to access features and set up jobs quickly.

Key features of the new model include Sharp’s 7″ (diagonally measured) touchscreen display, which offers a user-friendly graphical interface with a clean design combined with simplified Easy Modes and on-line user guides. Available Sharp OSA® modules enable easy integration with network applications and cloud services, which can help growing businesses better manage their workflows.

“The new MX-M2630 monochrome document system rounds out our successful Essentials Series lineup and is a great entry level model for small offices and growing businesses alike,” said Shane Coffey, vice president of product management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Users will enjoy the high quality output and easy-to-use features of the MX-M2630, while business owners and purchasing managers will enjoy the strong value it offers.

Distinguishing features of this model include Sharp’s Serverless Print Release, as well as enhanced security that includes up to 10-times data overwrite protection, data encryption and Sharp’s End-of-Lease data erase feature. Optional features include Email Connect and Cloud Connect, which enable access to email and cloud services directly from the touchscreen panel. The MX-M2630 also supports popular mobile technologies, including Apple® AirPrint®, Android™, Google Cloud Print™ and Sharpdesk® Mobile.

The new MX-M2630 Essentials Series monochrome document system is available immediately for purchase via authorized Sharp dealers.
Better Buys honors Lexmark with Editor’s Choice Award
May 22, 2018 12:35 am Comments Off on Better Buys honors Lexmark with Editor’s Choice Award
May 21, 2018

The new Lexmark MX520 Series and MX620 Series received Better Buys’ Editor’s Choice Award for 2Q 2018 in the black-and-white MFP and high-volume machines categories, respectively.

“We are proud that these new products have been recognized by the professionals at Better Buys,” said Allen Waugerman, senior vice president and chief technology officer. “These devices include powerful multi-core processors that enable speedy, convenient performance, with productivity enhancements that help organizations get more done. And of course they offer the reliability and security features that customers across the globe expect from Lexmark.”

Each product is individually evaluated and compared against the competition on a range of criteria, including unique features, value to the customer and price.

Better Buys commends the MX520 Series for its lower printing costs with ultra-high-capacity aftermarket toner, 2,000-page maximum paper capacity and strong security features.

The MX620 Series is recognized for its lower printing costs with ultra-high-capacity aftermarket toner, 100 page-per-minute duplex scanning, and inline stapling finishing option.

“With strong features and low printing costs in a compact design, the MX520 and MX620 Series help medium, large and enterprise companies improve productivity and efficiency,” said Melissa Pardo-Bunte, Editor, Better Buys.

Lexmark’s products were a few of only a handful of vendors chosen for Editor’s Choice Awards.
Lexmark CX923 Named a Better Buys 2018 Innovative Product of the Year
May 16, 2018 2:34 am Comments Off on Lexmark CX923 Named a Better Buys 2018 Innovative Product of the Year
May 15, 2018

Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that Better Buys has honored the Lexmark CX923 Series with its 2018 Innovative Product of the Year award in the high-volumes machines category.

The CX923 Series of devices print up to 65 pages per minute with tabloid-size (12×18”) media handling.

Considered Better Buys’ “best of the best”, the Innovative Products of the Year are selected from among those that earned Better Buys’ Editor’s Choice Awards throughout 2017. Each product is individually evaluated and compared against the competition on a range of criteria, including:
- Unique features
- Value to the customer
- Price
Better Buys lauds the CX923 Series for its flexible paper-handling configurations, the ColorSaver feature that prints images in a lighter toner setting, and high-yield (34,000-page) aftermarket toner cartridges.

“Lexmark continuously upgrades its devices with faster engines and newer features, and the CX923 Series are no exception,” said Melissa Pardo-Bunte, Editor, Better Buys. “They include strong features and flexible paper-handling designed to help large businesses improve productivity and still save money”.

“Lexmark is proud that Better Buys recognized our CX923 Series as its Innovative Product of the Year in the high-volume machines category,” said Lexmark Chief Technology Officer Allen Waugerman. “We built the CX923 series for customers that need to go big–with larger, tabloid-size pages, above average print speeds, and extraordinary service intervals. And of course each is built with the reliability, productivity and security Lexmark customers around the globe have come to expect.”
Lexmark Introduces New Generation of Mid-Range Monochrome Products
April 21, 2018 11:35 pm Comments Off on Lexmark Introduces New Generation of Mid-Range Monochrome Products
Apr 17, 2018

Lexmark, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the availability of a new generation of mid-range monochrome products. These intelligent devices are equipped with the latest capabilities, allowing users to focus on growing their business. This new single function and MFP series brings an unparalleled combination of reliability, productivity and security to desktop-sized devices built for medium and small workgroups.

“This new generation of Lexmark mid-range monochrome products brings the power and durability of a departmental printer or MFP to the desktop,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “The devices include powerful multi-core processors that enable speedy, convenient performance, plus the reliability and security features that customers across the globe expect from Lexmark. In addition, new productivity enhancements help organizations get more done.”

Reliability: Ready when you are
With sturdy metal frames and long-lasting components, the MS and MX 320, 420, 520, and 620 Series devices offer reliability, durability and duty cycles that minimize waste, enhance longevity and minimize the need for service and support. Long-life components, cartridge yields up to 25,000 pages*, and a maximum input capacity of 2,300 pages (with optional trays) keeps these devices working with fewer user interventions.

Productivity: Get more done
Combining performance, simplicity and connectivity, these new devices enable medium and small work groups to get more done.
- Performance: up to 50-page-per-minute printing** and a skilled scanner that can accurately capture up to 100 images per minute, even with mixed originals, helps users get what they need in a flash. A powerful multicore processor with up to 2 GB of standard memory simultaneously handles multiple tasks so users can send a fax while they print, for instance.
- Ease of use: e-Task, Lexmark’s award-winning***, tablet-like interface, provides easy access to powerful, time-saving solutions like Scan Center and Shortcut Center, enhancing productivity, accessibility, energy savings, and user experience.
- Connectivity: Innovative connectivity options also boost productivity by integrating with networks, mobile users, and even cloud storage, meeting a wide range of user needs from standard Ethernet and Wi-Fi to optional interfaces like serial, parallel and fiber.
Security: Full spectrum security comes standard
Lexmark’s award-winning full spectrum security features help protect documents, devices and networks from unauthorized access and are fully integrated into every product in the series. Lexmark responds to multi-faceted security threats with a holistic approach, providing systematic security for the device, the fleet and across the network infrastructure, resulting in a safer, more productive environment.

Quality: Clear, accurate output from the desktop
The series’ new media handling capability supports a wider range of media types with better skew performance for more accurate print jobs. Double-sided scanning means less paper movement in the capture process. Font outlining on grays and new and improved printing algorithms enhance fine line resolution and overall print quality. Even complex files with images, charts, and small print emerge from these devices just as designed.

Mobility: Print from where you are
These new devices enable workers to complete tasks via approved mobile devices with the free Lexmark Mobile Print app. Output is also available via AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, Mopria or Windows Mobile. A scan-to-mobile feature lets users scan pages on the Lexmark MFP, then view and share the scans from their mobile device.

Sustainability: Environmentally conscious
As expected from Lexmark, these devices meet the most stringent global environmental requirements, including the new ENERGY STAR® 2.0 certification and the EPEAT Silver rating.

“At the heart of this new generation of monochrome machines is a powerful multicore processor that supports true multitasking, and twice as much standard memory as previous-generation devices,” Waugerman said. “Like all Lexmark products, these new devices are designed to be reliable, productive and secure additions to customers’ IT assets.”
IDC MarketScape again names Lexmark an industry leader in smart MFPs
March 15, 2018 1:33 am Comments Off on IDC MarketScape again names Lexmark an industry leader in smart MFPs
Mar 12, 2018

Lexmark International, Inc., a global imaging solutions leader, today announced that it has again been recognized as a Leader by leading IT market research and advisory firm IDC in its IDC MarketScape: U.S. “Smart” Multifunction Peripheral 2018 Vendor Assessment (doc # US43533617, February 2018), which analyzes the strategies and current capabilities of companies providing smart MFPs in the U.S.

The IDC MarketScape examines an entire smart MFP ecosystem in place for each competitor. In addition to the hardware offering, the analysis incorporates related software, services, and go-to-market breadth and depth, as well as the organization’s overall strategy.

In naming Lexmark a Leader, the report states, “As a legacy leader in the print market, Lexmark owns much of its technology and provides a strong roster of services for its hardware. In addition, Lexmark has traditionally been recognized as a leader in managed print, workflow and, most recently, security, with a traditional sales strength in key document-intensive vertical markets.”

“Reliable, feature-rich smart MFPs, full-spectrum security and a strong managed print services offering are core reasons customers around the globe continue to choose Lexmark to help them print, secure and manage information,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “We are proud that the IDC MarketScape continues to name Lexmark a Leader in each of these categories.”
Konica Minolta named finalist for 2017 World Technology Awards
March 9, 2018 2:32 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta named finalist for 2017 World Technology Awards
TOKYO (March 6, 2018) – Konica Minolta, Inc. is pleased to announce that its Dispatcher Phoenix document distribution solution was named a 2017 World Technology Awards finalist in the IT Software category by the World Technology Network (WTN). The solution optimizes customers’ existing document management systems, and it was developed by Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc.

The World Technology Awards brings together the most innovative people and organizations in science and technology from around the world, exploring what is imminent, possible, and important in and around emerging technologies.
Sharp Becomes First MFP Provider Working With Alexa for Business to Enhance Technology in the Workplace
December 15, 2017 1:35 am Comments Off on Sharp Becomes First MFP Provider Working With Alexa for Business to Enhance Technology in the Workplace
MONTVALE, N.J., Dec. 12, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), is pleased to announce that the company is the first multifunction printer (MFP) provider working with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to enhance technology in the workplace through Alexa for Business.

Alexa for Business is a new service that enables businesses and organizations to bring Amazon Alexa into the workplace to help all types of workers be more productive and organized on both personal and shared Amazon Echo devices. In the workplace, shared devices can be placed in common areas for anyone to use, and workers can use their personal devices to connect at work and at home.

As the first and only MFP provider working with Alexa for Business today, Sharp is providing key capabilities to customers by working with the service designed specifically for business. Integrating with Alexa for Business will allow Sharp’s customers to interact through simple, verbal commands with their Sharp Digital MFPs and the rest of the Sharp B2B portfolio, including AQUOS BOARD interactive display systems. This will improve overall usability while minimizing the necessity for product-specific training.

“We are excited to be the first MFP provider working with Alexa for Business,” said Vince Jannelli, Associate Vice President, Software Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “This feature is an important step in bringing Sharp’s vision for an open, smart workplace to life, providing greater value to our business customers.”

Alexa for Business was announced during AWS re:Invent 2017 in Las Vegas on November 30. For more details, visit http://aws.amazon.com/alexaforbusiness or http://amzn.to/2j4pKf4.
Konica Minolta To Unveil New MarketPlace
1:35 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta To Unveil New MarketPlace
Konica Minolta Inc. has unveiled a new version of MarketPlace for users across the globe, which offers apps and licenses to “transform the way work gets done.”

The new Konica Minolta MarketPlace, which was formerly the bizhub MarketPlace, offers a platform for applications, customisation tools, and device management features. It makes available a variety of cloud, scan, productivity, information and security apps, allowing users of the MarketPlace to increase the power of their Konica Minolta MFPs quickly and easily, and helps them meet the challenges of everyday business.

Using the MarketPlace, users can quickly create customed-designed MFP User Interfaces, which can be tailored to only display the most-necessary functions, as well as including particular colours, company logos and corporate backgrounds.

The Konica Minolta MarketPlace boasts a new layout and a cleaner, more streamlined interface to make it easier for users to navigate, and to find and purchase apps. Apps can be searched, sorted and filtered based on category or keyword, and a simplified account creation system allows first-time users speedy access to all that is available.

Furthermore, installation processes have been optimised, online help has become more accessible, and the MarketPlace can support greater product variety with additional pricing capabilities.

Manuel Couceiro, Vice President of Konica Minolta’s Solutions Engineering Centre, said: “The new Konica Minolta MarketPlace is not just a change in brand name, but a significant evolution of this key platform, including a more modern, streamlined look-and-feel, a simplified user experience, and advanced features. This new platform is in line with the future-ready goals and unified direction of our company as we continue to create a better workplace for today and tomorrow.”
Alpine and Konica Minolta to Start a Joint Development on the 3D Augmented Reality Head-up Display for Automotive Use
November 21, 2017 3:33 am Comments Off on Alpine and Konica Minolta to Start a Joint Development on the 3D Augmented Reality Head-up Display for Automotive Use
Tokyo (November 16, 2017) – Alpine Electronics, Inc. (Alpine) and Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced a joint development on the head-up display (HUD) applying the 3D augmented reality (AR)technology for automotive use.

The joint development aims to enhance the innovative 3D AR HUD technology which was originally developed by Konica Minolta as the world’s first* in January 2017. The companies will work together on further advancements in technology suitable for mass production in fiscal 2021.

* As a technology that displays images on a windshield three dimensionally by projecting multiple images simultaneously at multiple distances from a driver without sensing the driver’s eye position (research by Konica Minolta)

Recently, the HUD’s adoption in vehicles has been accelerating to serve more desired functions as an important human-machine interface (HMI) tool to indicate the drivers many kinds of information such as road conditions and dangerous obstacles.

Utilizing the 3D AR technology in the HUD enables information to be overlaid simultaneously and individually on multiple objects such as pedestrians and obstacles to the exact distance and precisely in focus. It can also display information at an adequate distance depending on the driving speed and the driver’s view. The 3D AR HUD will help transform safe driving with ease and comfort in addition to higher level of safety.

Konica Minolta’s 3D AR HUD forefront technologies including optics, high-precision machining, performance material, image processing and Alpine’s product development, manufacturing expertise in the automotive field along with its HMI technologies will complement each other in this joint development. Leveraging the 3D AR breakthrough, it will have a profound impact on evolution of the high-performance HUD to achieve the automotive industry’s highest level in safety, security, comfort and convenience for drivers.
Sharp First Manufacturer To Achieve New International Security Standard
November 16, 2017 1:34 am Comments Off on Sharp First Manufacturer To Achieve New International Security Standard
MONTVALE, N.J., Nov. 14, 2017 /PRNewswire/ —Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America is the first document systems manufacturer to announce certification against the latest Common Criteria Security Protection Profile. The Protection Profile for Hardcopy Devices v1.0 (HCD-PP v1.0) provides the most up to date security validation for businesses, government and military offices.

The Common Criteria is a set of guidelines used to evaluate information technology equipment. The specifications are set and tested by independent laboratories. Sharp is certified by Japan’s IT security evaluation and certification system (JISEC).

The Hardcopy Device Protection Profile v1.0 (HCD-PP) is a new requirement for digital multifunction printers (MFPs) based on the security requirements specified by the U.S. and Japanese governments. It was developed through the industry collaboration with National Information Assurance Partnership (NIAP) and International-Technology Promotion Agency, Japan (IPA). It aims to protect the information processed by an MFP from security threats and includes specifications for encryption and firewalls.

“Sharp has always aimed to achieve a secure and productive office environment through the development of our digital MFPs,” said Vince Jannelli, Associate Vice President, Software Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Keeping up with evolving standards, such as Common Criteria, is important to ensure that our customers can confidently handle the most sensitive data on our devices.”

The following Sharp devices have received the certification: MX-2630N, MX-3050N/3550N/4050N/5050N/6050N, MX-3070N/3570N/4070N/5070N/6070N. Existing and new customers can add this option via a firmware update.

For products certified by JISEC, please visit the information processing promotion organization (IPA) website.
Lexmark Introduces Smart Document Capture for Insurance
September 19, 2017 1:35 am Comments Off on Lexmark Introduces Smart Document Capture for Insurance
Sep 14, 2017

Lexmark International, Inc., a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the availability of Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Insurance, a solution that leverages the Lexmark smart multi-function printer (MFP) to help insurers digitize key processes to better serve customers, gain efficiencies and ensure compliance.

“Insurance customers today expect to interact through digital channels that provide a simple, convenient and consistent experience,” said Larry Early, Lexmark global industry director. “Despite progress made, much of the information required for core insurance processes–like applying for new coverage, renewing a policy or filing a claim–is still communicated through paper-based documents. Getting that data into an otherwise digital process can be time consuming, costly and an irritant to customers. We developed Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Insurance to help carriers and agencies overcome this challenge.”

Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Insurance enables insurance carriers and agents to provide a connected, digital experience by effectively and efficiently capturing and processing paper forms and documents and quickly inserting them into existing systems of record to streamline digital business processes.

“This solution effectively turns the Lexmark MFP into a gateway to core systems for an agent, claims adjuster, field underwriter, home office associate or anyone supporting a customer,” Early added.

Smart Document Capture for Insurance was designed to streamline, digitize and simplify information management all across the insurance enterprise, allowing users to:
- Onboard new applicants with ease: Automate new application capture, tracking and alerts for faster processing and more efficient onboarding.
- Accelerate remote payment processing: Easily submit and validate payments directly from the Lexmark MFP in a local office.
- Enable automated claims processing: Leverage automated data extraction and verification to quickly process claims documents, eliminate errors, and avoid redundancies.
With capabilities that range from scanning directly to a system of record to intelligently processing documents, Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Insurance is tailored to meet the specific needs of the insurer. A fast, intuitive and simple user experience requires minimal training for enterprise-wide use. Intelligent technology makes it easy to capture documents and identify any missing customer information at the point of origination to drive customer satisfaction, process accuracy and compliance. The solution’s agility makes it easy to integrate information and documents captured even at remote locations.

“Lexmark has decades of experience providing document management solutions to the insurance industry,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark chief technology officer. “Our depth of industry expertise and leading document capture and processing technology has allowed us to create solutions that reduce costs, eliminate manual tasks and increase productivity for insurance carriers across the globe.”

Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Insurance is a custom solution available via Lexmark authorized resellers or directly from Lexmark.
Sharp To Exhibit High Volume Multifunction Printers At PRINT 17
September 14, 2017 7:32 pm Comments Off on Sharp To Exhibit High Volume Multifunction Printers At PRINT 17
MONTVALE, N.J., Sept. 7, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) is pleased to announce its participation in PRINT 17, where it will highlight the Sharp MX-6580N and MX-7580N high-speed color document systems with an optional MX-PE12 Fiery® Print Server. The two new additions to Sharp’s high-volume color multifunction printer (MFP) lineup are ideal for professional printing and color-critical environments.

The MX-6580N and MX-7580N print 65 and 75 pages per minute, respectively, and are equipped with the latest Sharp OSA® technology. This enables easy integration with network applications and cloud services, including Cloud Connect for popular platforms such as OneDrive®, Google Drive™, and SharePoint® Online. The optional MX-PE12 Fiery Print Server provides unsurpassed job and color management, while working seamlessly in environments requiring more control and precision color output.

“The integration of the MX-PE12 Fiery Print Server into our MFP lineup demonstrates Sharp’s commitment to providing the features and options our customers require to achieve the high quality results they have come to expect from Sharp,” said Kent Villarreal, Senior Product Manager, Product Planning and Marketing, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “The Fiery Print Server extends Sharp’s reach into the light production market, allowing for more print jobs to be brought in-house, saving time and money.”

Complementing Sharp’s world-class support on the pre- and post-sale side, all Sharp Print Production Managers have earned the Fiery Certified Expert title, the highest level of training attainable through EFI, which provides direct access to EFI support engineers and helps to guarantee the best possible support to Sharp’s customers. This training and support is critical for light production and Fiery-connected environments, where productivity and up-time matter most. During PRINT 17, attendees can stop by the Sharp exhibit to speak with a Sharp Print Production Manager, where they will be answering questions and providing demos on the newest products.

For those customers not requiring a Fiery print server, the MX-6580N and MX-7580N standard print controllers now include Pantone Licensing as part of Sharp’s continued focus on color matching. These models add to the long list of MFPs offered from Sharp that are Pantone licensed. Through PANTONE® Color Matching, Sharp MFPs are easily able to reproduce colors from the PANTONE Coated Series of colors without the expense or required expertise that sometimes comes with optional software or hardware. There are now a total of 14 current Sharp color models with this capability, including the new models.

Users will also benefit from the mobile printing capabilities the MX-6580N and MX-7580N have to offer. Mobile scanning is available via Sharpdesk Mobile, and connectivity is available via mobile printing supported platforms such as Apple® AirPrint®, Google® Cloud Print™, and native Android™ printing. A no cost server-less print release option allows users to release a job from another capable Sharp MFP without needing a server or extra software.

Sharp is exhibiting at PRINT 17 in the Formax booth #3625, September 10-14, in Chicago, Illinois.
Lexmark Introduces Smart Document Capture for Banking
September 6, 2017 8:45 am Comments Off on Lexmark Introduces Smart Document Capture for Banking
Aug 30, 2017

Lexmark International, Inc., a global imaging solutions leader, today announced the availability of Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Banking, a solution platform that streamlines paper-based processes within the branch, helping banks improve customer service, accuracy and compliance.

Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Banking allows bank branch associates to automate document processing directly from the Lexmark smart multifunction printer (MFP), so customers can easily and quickly open new accounts, get a loan approved, apply for a mortgage, and more– including staying informed throughout the process.

“These types of processes can keep customers waiting for days as their paperwork undergoes manual entry, review and validation,” said Larry Early, Lexmark industry director, financial services. “This wait time, perceived as poor service, gives customers an opportunity to take their business elsewhere.”

“Banks are under tremendous pressure to revolutionize the customer experience and provide digital, efficient and compliant interactions. Automating manual, paper-based processes is a significant step toward this ‘branch of the future’ transformation,” Early said.

Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Banking leverages a Lexmark MFP in the branch to add intelligence to the process as documents are collected from the customer.
- Document processing technology is leveraged at the MFP touch screen interface to ensure all required information and documentation is in place.
- Automated notifications and alerts keep customers and employees in the know, alerting both when additional documentation or information is needed.
- Direct integration with most bank software platforms and back-end systems leverages the bank’s existing infrastructure while enabling an omnichannel customer experience.
- Digital audit trails are available to demonstrate compliance with bank requirements and regulations.
“Our banking customers are focused on transforming the branch experience to meet heightened customer expectations, and Lexmark is helping them do just that,” said Allen Waugerman, Lexmark senior vice president and chief technology officer. “Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Banking is the latest addition to our banking solution offerings that are designed to automate paper-based processes so banks can achieve better customer service, more efficient back-office operations and improved compliance.”

The Lexmark Smart Document Capture for Banking is a custom solution available via Lexmark authorized resellers or directly from Lexmark.
Konica Minolta Acquires Muratec
August 12, 2017 1:34 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Acquires Muratec
08/01/2017 Ramsey, NJ – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) has acquired Muratec America, Inc., a leading supplier of multifunction (MFP) solutions and a provider of managed document and cloud services in North America. The acquisition, which closes today, will strengthen the company’s distribution network and further advance Konica Minolta’s leading position within the industry.

Muratec is well-positioned and has shown steady growth over the years, both in solutions and services sectors. The company has built a strong portfolio due to their technical expertise and innovative, problem-solving approach.

As a wholly-owned, consolidated subsidiary of Konica Minolta, Muratec America, Inc. will continue to deliver its high quality sales and maintenance business and will operate under the leadership of President, Jim D’Emidio.

“Historically we’ve had a mutual and complementary product lineup with Muratec making this acquisition a great platform to create new synergies together,” said Rick Taylor, President and CEO, Konica Minolta. “The fact that the fundamentals of both of these companies align and we both strive to be the best in every region, makes this a perfect fit.”

“Muratec and Konica Minolta have had a very close relationship for many years,” stated Jim D’Emidio, President, Muratec. “With the strength of Konica Minolta, I am confident we will achieve even more significant growth and provide stronger support to our customers.”

This is Konica Minolta Business Solutions’ 30th acquisition in the past five years. With over 8,000 employees in the U.S., it is part of Konica Minolta Inc., a global technology company.
Lexmark named a leader in Document Imaging Security
July 26, 2017 11:37 am Comments Off on Lexmark named a leader in Document Imaging Security
LEXINGTON, Ky., July 20, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Lexmark International, Inc., a global imaging solutions leader, today announced it has been honored with a Buyers Lab PaceSetter award in the Document Imaging Security category from the analysts at Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab(BLI). The award recognizes Lexmark for:
- Top-tier scores in nearly every category in the study, including device authentication, hard drive security, and firmware integrity
- Security features on Lexmark single-function printers that generally match those found on its more advanced MFPs
- Experience and strength in securely tying printers and MFPs to workflow software
- Excellent device-management security features found in the Lexmark Markvision Enterprise software platform
“Lexmark makes full-spectrum security an integral part of all our products to protect customer information from internal and external threats,” said Allen Waugerman, senior vice president and chief technology officer, Lexmark.

“We are proud to be recognized by Keypoint Intelligence as a security leader based on their thorough review.”

To determine market leaders in document and device security, analysts at Keypoint Intelligence conducted an in-depth evaluation of the security ecosystems of 13 document imaging OEMs. The granular study drilled down into 140 points of potential differentiation spread across eight categories.

The report cites Lexmark’s strengths in key hardware areas such as device authentication and hard drive security. Lexmark also scored very well in firmware and app integrity, an area that Keypoint analysts said proved to be a challenge for the industry as a whole. Lexmark’s Markvision Enterprise device management software was also lauded for the added security it provides by continuously checking devices on the network and automatically remedying any security settings that are out of conformance.

“Lexmark’s device security is second to none and includes advanced features such as a firmware integrity check at boot-up, BIOS integrity checking, intrusion detection and reporting, and much more,” said Jamie Bsales, director of Software Analysis at Keypoint Intelligence – Buyers Lab. “It easily landed in the top tier among the 13 OEMs included in our study, which should give Lexmark purchasers peace of mind about the security of their output fleet.”
Lexmark unveils next generation A3 printing solutions for demanding workgroups
July 7, 2017 3:35 pm Comments Off on Lexmark unveils next generation A3 printing solutions for demanding workgroups
LEXINGTON, Ky., June 6, 2017 /PRNewswire/ —
- Lexmark International, Inc., a global imaging solutions leader, today unveiled the next generation of A3 color laser printers and smart multi-function products (MFPs), featuring nine new models designed to serve the most demanding of workgroups with fast, efficient and secure imaging services.
- The Lexmark CS920 Series and the Lexmark CX920 Series feature Lexmark’s fastest printing and scanning devices, and highest paper capacity:
- The CX924 is Lexmark’s fastest color laser MFP, at up to 65 ppm.
- The CX920 Series features Lexmark’s fastest scanner, at up to 80 ppm.
- Both have the highest paper capacity in Lexmark’s color laser line, at 6,650 sheets.
- Maximum monthly duty cycles in the CX920 Series range from 200,000 to 275,000 pages, meeting demanding output requirements.
- These high-speed, high-capacity, color A3 devices deliver on all aspects of Lexmark’s product expertise:
- Ease of use: A bright, next-generation 10-inch touchscreen featuring Lexmark’s own e-Task interface creates an intuitive icon- and text-driven experience that walks users through each step in a process.
- Flexibility: User experience and productivity are enhanced with included solution apps that are located on the user interface, such as Lexmark’s Print Release and Mobile Print. Devices can also be customized with optional apps or the user’s own apps.
- Manageability: CS920 and CX920 series devices become an integrated part of an existing Lexmark fleet as soon as they are plugged in, with complete fleet management, proactive diagnostics and remote firmware upgradeability.
- Security: Lexmark’s comprehensive, full-spectrum security portfolio is built into every CS920 and CX920 device, ensuring a safer and more productive environment.
- Mobility: Mobility features include simple printer discovery and mobile printing from iOS, Android or Google Cloud devices, as well as mobile scan and full administration to configure mobile policies, options and defaults.
- Accessibility: Integrated voice guidance, standard headphone jack, a tiltable operations panel, and screen magnification with pinch and zoom features optimize productivity with varying levels of abilities and create a better experience for all users.
- Integration with Lexmark services: Every CS920 and CX920 series device is fully compatible with key Lexmark services, from Managed Print Services to Lexmark Print Management.
- The products introduced today will be available later this year.
Sharp Announces High-Speed, High-Volume Additions To Color Multifunction Product Lineup
12:33 pm Comments Off on Sharp Announces High-Speed, High-Volume Additions To Color Multifunction Product Lineup
MONTVALE, N.J., June 8, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) announces two additions to its high-volume color multifunction printer (MFP) lineup: The Sharp MX-6580N and MX-7580N high-speed color document systems with optional MX-PE12 Fiery® Print Server combine proven reliability with intuitive operation in a modular design for professional printing and for color-critical environments.

Inspired by the latest application and imaging technologies, these new models offer a rugged design and a user friendly experience that can help streamline document workflow for high-volume office environments, central reprographics departments and copy rooms. These document systems are complemented by robust paper handling and productive output capabilities.

Sharp’s next generation Color Consistency System is easy to use and helps ensure brilliant, consistent color output page-after-page and job-after-job for repeatable high-quality results. Additionally, Sharp’s customizable touch screen display offers a user-friendly, graphical interface with a clean design, simplified Easy Modes and integrated mini operation guides.

The MX-6580N and MX-7580N print 65 and 75 pages per minutes, respectively, and are equipped with Sharp OSA® technology, enabling easy integration with network applications and cloud services, such as Cloud Connect for popular platforms such as One Drive, Google Drive, and SharePoint Online. The optional MX-PE12 Fiery Print Server provides unsurpassed job and color management, while working seamlessly in environments requiring more control and precision color output.

“Sharp’s new high volume color MFPs are an essential complement to our lineup and continue our legacy of solutions that provide ease of use, integration and advanced workflow for our customers,” said Shane Coffey, Associate Vice President, Document Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “The MX-6580N and 7580N offer higher speeds and higher volume in a user-friendly interface to provide users with an optimal experience.”

Users will benefit from the mobile printing capabilities the MX-6580N and MX-7580N have to offer. Mobile scanning is available via Sharpdesk Mobile, and connectivity is available via mobile printing supported platforms such as Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Native Android Printing. A server-less print release option allows users to release a job from another capable Sharp MFP without needing a server or extra software.

The MX-6580N and MX-7580N are scheduled to ship immediately.
Konica Minolta and SCREEN GA Enhance Collaboration in the Digital Commercial Printing Area
12:33 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta and SCREEN GA Enhance Collaboration in the Digital Commercial Printing Area
Tokyo (July 5, 2017) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) and SCREEN Graphic Solutions Co., Ltd. (SCREEN GA) have enhanced collaboration in the digital commercial printing area to achieve seamless hybrid workflows and increase user-friendliness in offset printing and digital printing. The two companies will further improve efficiency, expand business opportunities, and deliver new value in the commercial printing industry.

Details of Enhanced Collaboration and Value Proposition

In the commercial printing industry, digital printing equipment is being increasingly introduced due to growing demand for high-mix small-lot printing to meet the diverse needs of consumers. In some cases, users cannot take full advantage of the equipment because the CTP workflow RIPs for offset printing – the core of workflow systems – cannot fully control the equipment.

Konica Minolta and SCREEN GA have enhanced data exchange in the Job Definition Format (JDF)*1 between the EQUIOS universal workflow*2 systems offered by SCREEN GA and the Accurio inkjet and toner digital presses offered by Konica Minolta. This enhanced data exchange enables users to directly perform digital printing from the EQUIOS, achieving seamless operation that encompasses color management and finishing. This solution increases commercial printing efficiency in a production environment and offers new business opportunities by taking full advantage of on-demand printing.

Background to the Enhanced Collaboration

Konica Minolta has a competitive edge in variable digital presses, and aims to further open up the market in the digital commercial printing area. SCREEN GA offers an extensive lineup of high-speed variable digital presses and CTP systems, and has a competitive edge in integrated workflow systems combining CTP systems with digital presses to automate the printing process and eliminate the need for skilled users.

The two companies will enhance collaboration to further improve the value proposition for customers of the respective companies based on an open partner strategy through which each company further enhances its own competitive edge while utilizing the other’s technologies and assets.

Toshimitsu Taiko, Executive Officer, General Manager, Professional Print Business Headquarters, Konica Minolta, Inc. said, “Konica Minolta aims to become a high-value-added solution provider by identifying customers’ issues, making proposals, and helping customers solve the issues. In the digital commercial printing area, Konica Minolta will take full advantage of its technologies and assets, including the Accurio series, through open collaboration with its partners to value innovation and value creation according to the business types and categories of its customers.”

Toru Kawada, Corporate Officer, Division Head, Business Development Division, SCREEN Graphic Solutions Co., Ltd. said, “SCREEN GA has continuously improved the EQUIOS universal workflow systems that combine CTP workflow systems with cutting-edge inkjet printing technologies. To meet diversifying printing needs, SCREEN GA will promote automation of the printing process and offer a solution environment that creates customer value by using the EQUIOS as the solution platform or as the core system for efficiently using offset presses and digital presses.”
SHARP MULTIFUNCTION PRINTER INTEGRATION NOW AVAILABLE WITHIN BLACKBOARD LEARN
April 3, 2017 9:54 am Comments Off on SHARP MULTIFUNCTION PRINTER INTEGRATION NOW AVAILABLE WITHIN BLACKBOARD LEARN
Montvale, NJ, March 23, 2017

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), today announced availability of its integration with Blackboard Learn™, Blackboard’s leading learning management system. The integration enhances the paper-to-digital workflows in higher education and K‐12 learning environments.

Through the integration, students can use any connected Sharp multifunctional printer (MFP) on campus to scan assignments and upload the file directly to their Blackboard Learn courses. It improves the student user experience by providing a more efficient and flexible way to submit handwritten or hard-copy assignments. The integration also streamlines the workflow for instructors, allowing them to review and grade uploaded assignments from within their Blackboard Learn course.

“Technology needs to keep pace with the demand for better and smarter ways of working in education,” said Vince Jannelli, Associate Vice President of Software Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “By connecting our products through our alliance with Blackboard, we are continuing on our journey to help improve the learning experience, both inside and outside of the classroom.”

Blackboard Learn is Blackboard’s flagship learning management system (LMS) that provides the technology foundation for online learning programs. The LMS helps schools improve their academic quality and engage students, promoting student success. Sharp announced its alliance with Blackboard at the end of 2015. Since then, the companies have worked together to development the integration which is now available for Blackboard Learn clients.

“We are pleased to align with Sharp to bring increased efficiency to students and educators using Blackboard Learn,” said Kathleen Vieira, Vice President of Partner and Portfolio Management at Blackboard. “This integration is another example of how Blackboard is partnering with the global education community to enable learner and institutional success.”

The integration is exclusively available to Blackboard clients enrolled in the Sharp Application Integrator Program. To download the Sharp MFP Assignment Submission Building Block, clients can visit the Blackboard Extensions Catalog.
SHARP INTRODUCES HIGH-VOLUME MONOCHROME DOCUMENT SYSTEM TO MFP LINE UP
9:54 am Comments Off on SHARP INTRODUCES HIGH-VOLUME MONOCHROME DOCUMENT SYSTEM TO MFP LINE UP
Montvale, NJ, March 22, 2017

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) announces a new addition to their multifunction printer (MFP) line up. The MX-M905, the newest high-speed, light production monochrome document system from Sharp, is designed to handle the rigors of high volume environments where productivity and reliability are critical and ease of use is essential.

Providing customers with features such as a customizable touchscreen display with a user-friendly graphical interface, the MX-M905 also offers a range of paper handling and finishing options. Features such as mobile printing and mobile scanning with Sharpdesk Mobile, are seamlessly integrated. This high-speed device can also connect to popular mobile printing platforms such as Apple AirPrint®, Google Cloud Print™, and Native Android™ Printing. For ultimate convenience, standard Serverless Print Release technology enables customers to securely print a job and release it from up to six Sharp document systems on your network without needing a server or additional software.

In addition, this competitively priced successor to the MX-M904 model brings many of the award-winning features of the existing line of color document systems from Sharp to our customers. Sharp OSA® technology enables easy integration with network applications and cloud services. The Cloud Connect feature leverages Sharp OSA technology to access popular platforms such as Microsoft OneDrive for Business, Google Drive, and SharePoint Online without added middleware. This document system also supports scanning using embedded Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software enabled via DirectOffice™ technology, which allows for the conversion of scanned documents to popular Microsoft Office file formats, including Word, PowerPoint® and Excel, as well as a variety of Adobe® PDF formats.

“Sharp’s innovative MX-M905 has been specifically engineered with our customers in mind,” said Shane Coffey, Associate Vice President, Document Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “The simple and intuitive operation that the new 10.1″ diagonal award-winning touchscreen display offers, gives this model the ease of use our customers have come to expect. Additionally, the strong engine and connectivity features make this model an ideal tool for offices across many verticals such as education and manufacturing.”

The flexibility of configurations and the high reliability it offers make the MX-M905 perfect for environments with multiple users that have varying needs. It offers a triple‐air paper‐feed unit that allows a wide range of paper to be utilized with precision and reliability and a 2-tray post process inserter for inserting pre-printed color documents. Furthermore, the customizable display features “Easy Copy” and “Easy Scan” modes that offer large size characters and only keys for the most frequently used settings.

For office environments looking to cut costs while retaining the convenience of a workgroup MFP, the MX-M905 offers an impressive range of high-performance finishing options that can transform print jobs into professional-looking documents. In-line advanced finishing such as GBC Smart Punch Pro™, and a Multi-Folding Unit all enable more jobs to be performed in house. These advanced capabilities allow users to better manage their workflows.

The MX-M905 light production monochrome document system is scheduled to ship immediatelySharp
Lexmark and Intelligent ID announce partnership to enhance document security
9:54 am Comments Off on Lexmark and Intelligent ID announce partnership to enhance document security
LEXINGTON, Ky.

Mar 15, 2017
- Lexmark International, a global imaging solutions leader, today announced it has partnered with Intelligent ID, experts in insider risk management and user behavioral analysis, to codevelop a full spectrum of document and endpoint security offerings.
- By combining Lexmark’s imaging expertise and Intelligent ID’s innovative data monitoring methodology, the partnership is expected to produce an end-to-end approach to combat insider threats.
- This partnership will enable the two companies to collaborate on software that enhances the tracking and security of sensitive documents, preventing external and internal threats.
- The solutions are expected to enable security efforts that focus on detecting the malicious and non-malicious breaches that may occur internally when sensitive digital information is duplicated or transferred to hardcopy through a printer or multifunction-imaging device.
- The partnership will provide comprehensive data risk monitoring via the company’s network, the user’s endpoint or the Lexmark device itself. Data will be collected in real time or over a period of time.
Supporting Quotes

“In the age of digital transformation, we want to provide not only secure data protocols against external forces, but also enable customers to strengthen their monitoring coverage to include all users and devices within the organization,” said Allen Waugerman, senior vice president and chief technology officer, Lexmark. “Our partnership with Intelligent ID will strengthen our offerings to provide this coverage against internal threats, providing a safer, more productive work environment.”

“Imagine having the ability to monitor print, copy, fax and scan documents in real time to prevent accidental or purposeful data leaks,” said Jim Mazotas, founder and chief technology officer, Intelligent ID. “Our partnership with Lexmark will extend this monitoring coverage to include all users and devices within the organization, providing an innovative solution that solves insider threat potentials.”
SHARP’S CLOUD PORTAL OFFICE RECEIVES TOP RATINGS
January 21, 2017 1:36 pm Comments Off on SHARP’S CLOUD PORTAL OFFICE RECEIVES TOP RATINGS
Montvale, NJ, January 19, 2017

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) announces that Sharp Cloud Portal Office (CPO) has received a prestigious “Pick” award for “Outstanding Content and Collaboration Service” from Buyers Laboratory LLC (BLI), a world-wide leading independent evaluator of document imaging products and solutions.

BLI Pick awards give special recognition to software products that provide the most outstanding performances in BLI’s unique evaluations. The award is given to software products submitted for testing that rise above the competition in key areas such as feature set, ease of use and ease of administration, software integration and value.

CPO is a turnkey content management service that provides a convenient way to capture, index and archive both paper and electronic documents in a single repository. Through CPO, IT administrators can manage and control user access in order to safeguard company data. CPO also allows for a secure connection to business content and with flexible sharing features users can easily collaborate with team members, whether remotely or during in-person conferences.

CPO received top marks from BLI for the platform’s many strengths, including its small to medium-size business focused content management features, such as customized indexing, exceptions processing and a user-friendly viewer. The platform also received accolades for its easy-to-use collaboration features accessible through intuitive user interfaces such as the PC, smartphone or tablet, Sharp multifunctional printer (MFP), or Sharp AQUOS BOARD® interactive display system. Finally, granular folder and subfolder sharing permissions and admin controls help ensure content integrity and security.

“Employees are becoming less constrained by their physical location, and content platforms like Cloud Portal Office allow staff to be productive even if all users are in different locations,” said Jamie Bsales, director, Office Workflow Solutions Analysis. “Setting permissions on who gets to access certain content is easy, so users will never have to worry about their work being affected by the wrong hands. And the use of exception handling, version control and audit logs ensures content fidelity in this valuable service.”

“Sharp is extremely honored to receive a coveted Pick award form BLI,” said Vince Jannelli, Associate Vice President of Software Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We designed Cloud Portal Office for small to medium-size businesses looking for cloud-based content management and collaboration, and it is gratifying to be recognized for our commitment to this goal.”

For more information about Cloud Portal Office, visit www.sharpusa.com.
Konica Minolta launches a new bizhub MarketPlace, accelerating customers’ business by expanding MFP functionality
January 19, 2017 9:40 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta launches a new bizhub MarketPlace, accelerating customers’ business by expanding MFP functionality
Tokyo (January 17, 2017) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) announced that Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. and Konica Minolta Business Solutions Europe GmbH are launching a new and enhanced version of the bizhub MarketPlace platform to accommodate the global market, in U.S.A. and Europe, adding a variety of applications and helpful features. The bizhub MarketPlace allows MFP’s functionalities to be enhanced by easily adding functions that are required to meet challenges of everyday businesses. The platform will be available throughout U.S.A. and Europe from January 2017.

Konica Minolta assists customers in maximising their productivity by offering more flexibility in adapting devices to everyday routines. The bizhub MarketPlace platform allows the functionality of Konica Minolta’s multifunctional products to be easily enhanced by adding apps to the devices without the need to buy expensive software.

Quick access and easy set-up

The possibility to connect to services such as OneDrive, Google Drive or SharePoint provides quick access to documents with the benefit of secure processes and state-of-the-art technology. In order to keep maintenance costs low and productivity high, the initial set-up as well as updates and additional apps are deployed remotely. Since the devices are centrally managed, all applications are kept up-to-date automatically with no extra charges.

Personalised MFP

As an additional service, the bizhub MarketPlace offers customers the possibility to get a personalised MFP user interface with an individual design and features, which fit within specific workflows and corporate design guidelines. Konica Minolta’s customisation services include consultancy, design and guidance through the individual features and workflows that can be made available on the display of the bizhub. Similar to additional apps or updates, customised user interfaces are deployed remotely, which benefits major enterprises with many staff.

Perfectly suited for every customer’s needs

The bizhub MarketPlace offers benefits for businesses of all sizes. One of the biggest advantages is that with the bizhub MarketPlace, the MFP adapts to the customer’s working behaviour, and not the other way around. The large variety of apps makes it simple to streamline the workflow, while saving time and costs, which essentially means more time for the core business.

bizhub MarketPlace (U.S.A) Recognized for Outstanding MFP App Ecosystem by BLI Pick Awards Winter 2017

This new version for global market is based on current bizhub MarketPlace developed in U.S.A., which has recently been honored with a prestigious Pick award for “Outstanding MFP App Ecosystem” from the analysts at Buyers Laboratory, Inc. (BLI). This award is the recognition of Konica Minolta’s software commitment to providing the industry with innovative solutions for ready-to-use business applications.
SHARP RECEIVES TOP INDUSTRY RATINGS FOR ITS FULL LINE OF ADVANCED AND ESSENTIALS COLOR WORKGROUP DOCUMENT SYSTEMS
January 16, 2017 11:36 am Comments Off on SHARP RECEIVES TOP INDUSTRY RATINGS FOR ITS FULL LINE OF ADVANCED AND ESSENTIALS COLOR WORKGROUP DOCUMENT SYSTEMS
Montvale, NJ, January 11, 2017

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) has earned 10 Highly Recommended ratings from Buyers Laboratory LLC (BLI), a world-wide leading independent evaluator of document imaging products and solutions. A “Highly Recommended” rating is the highest mark a product can receive from BLI. Sharp received this rating for all 10 of its Advanced and Essentials color workgroup document systems.

Launched almost exactly one year ago, the color Advanced and Essentials Series workgroup document systems have made a major impression on dealers and customers alike. In December 2015, the launch of Sharp’s first six models at their National Dealer Meeting in San Antonio, Texas, received a standing ovation from dealers for their single-engine platform, easy-to-use common interface and common toner supplies across the line. This was closely followed by four more models in June 2016, taking the series from output speeds of 30 to 60 ppm within a matter of months.

“Sharp’s new color Advanced and Essentials Series easily earned BLI’s Highly Recommended rating, proving highly reliable throughout our rigorous testing,” said George Mikolay, BLI’s Senior Editor for A3 MFPs. “Designed to meet the needs of any mid- to large-size workgroup, these models offer the ease of operability, output quality and flexibility business users need.”

The color Advanced Series and color Essentials Series document systems are designed with users in mind, enabling them to easily set up and execute workflow tasks. Both series are equipped with Sharp’s next generation touchscreen display, offering an intuitive graphical interface with Easy Copy and Easy Scan screens, as well as quick access to on-board operation guides. Both model series also support popular mobile technologies, including Apple® AirPrint®, Android™ Print Service and Google Cloud Print™. Multi-layered security features help ensure intellectual property and personal information is protected throughout the life of the device.

“Sharp is proud to receive the highly recommended rating from BLI for outstanding MFP performance of our new A3 line,” said Shane Coffey, Associate Vice President, Hardware Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We are constantly striving to enhance our R&D to provide customers with industry leading productivity and reliability. This recognition from BLI re-affirms our commitment to that goal.”

The Advanced Series includes the MX-3070N/3570N/4070N/5070N/6070N document systems and the Essentials Series includes the MX-3050N/3550N/4050N/5050N/6050N document systems.
SHARP INTRODUCES PANTONE® COLOR MATCHING FOR 10 NEW MFP MODELS
November 7, 2016 1:37 pm Comments Off on SHARP INTRODUCES PANTONE® COLOR MATCHING FOR 10 NEW MFP MODELS
MAHWAH, NJ, Nov 3, 2016

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), announced that all 10 models in its Color Advanced and Essentials Series multifunction printer (MFP) line, ranging in speed from 30 ‐ 60 pages per minute (ppm), now support Pantone color matching. Together with its high-speed office and light production lineup, with speeds of 62 ‐ 75 ppm, Sharp now has 14 multifunction printer models that are Pantone-licensed. This valuable feature is an ideal fit for color-critical environments that rely on the Pantone Matching System®.

Traditionally, matching Pantone colors required color expertise and the use of expensive workflow software. Now the color analysts at Pantone expertly tuned the Pantone colors specifically for the Color Advanced and Essentials series. The carefully crafted color table faithfully, and easily, reproduces colors from the Pantone Coated Series of colors onto documents produced by Sharp MFPs.

“The Pantone Matching System is used by companies across a variety of industries to help distinguish their brand image through corporate logos, text, and more,” said Shane Coffey, Senior Director, Hardware Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We are pleased to continue offering our customers advanced color management tools that are simple, streamlined and that achieve professional results.”

Pantone color matching for all Color Advanced and Essentials models, as well as the high-speed office and light production lineup, is currently available at no extra cost.
Konica Minolta Opens a Strategic Business Base in France to Strengthen Its Industrial Printing Business
1:37 pm Comments Off on Konica Minolta Opens a Strategic Business Base in France to Strengthen Its Industrial Printing Business
Tokyo (November 7, 2016) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced that it has opened a strategic business base in France to facilitate the growth of its industrial printing business.
Established as part of a global management strategy, this is Konica Minolta’s first overseas business base in its core business area, where the company will formulate medium- and long-term strategies to strengthen its industrial printing business by evaluating customer value propositions.

Aiming for workflow transformation in industrial printing

Konica Minolta is determined to evolve into a problem solving digital company capable of faciliating workflow transformation with its digital technologies to deliver greater convenience and higher productivity to customers’ work processes. The market size of industrial printing, including labels, packaging and textiles, is estimated at 50 trillion yen, which means there is a huge growth potential in the digital printing business. Also, needs for digital printing are increasing as more and more companies turn to marketing strategies that motivate customers to buy using exclusive label and packaging designs.

Konica Minolta aims to deliver new value to the industrial printing industry and expand its digital printing business by leveraging its digital technologies to meet the need for high-mix small-lot production and shorter lead time, and also by offering solutions to enhance efficiency of printing operations.

Developing business in Europe, the center of the industrial printing business, in a customer-centric manner

With a concentration of leading-edge industrial printing companies and manufacturers of related equipment, Europe deserves to be called a global trendsetter in the industrial printing business. With a business base in Europe, the center of the global industrial printing market, Konica Minolta aims to accelerate the development of solutions for industrial printing through a cyclic process of creating new customer values and business models and then evaluating the values and business models jointly with customers. This customer-centric cyclic process, which Konica Minolta has employed as its original framework to evaluate customer values, has been making meaningful contributions to the company’s business and technical development in recent years.

In the label and packaging printing industry, digitalized high-mix small-lot production is also expected to largely enhance the efficiency of the post-press process of varnishing, laminating, foil stamping, and die cutting. Konica Minolta will seek opportunities to accelerate open innovation in this field through its existing alliance with MGI Digital Technology (MGI), a leading high value-added digital printing equipment* manufacturer based in France, and also by strengthening partnerships with a number of post-press equipment manufacturers in Europe.

In addition, Europe is main ragion of the world’s digital textile printing market as well as Asia, and leads the world in the digitization in printing of wall paper and construction materials. While Konica Minolta has been offering inkjet digital textile printers and inkjet printheads to the European market, the company is confident it can develop new solutions for workflow transformation by being closer to the market.

Expanding business in the industrial printing area to achieve a huge growth

Since launching high-quality, compact production print systems with low capital investment cost in 2003, Konica Minolta has largely expanded the digital printing market in the areas of commercial printing and in-house printing. For over a decade since then, Konica Minolta has created a digital commercial printing market and expanded the scope and range of its business activities, while developing print systems for various usage (from light to heavy) focusing on color printers. As a result, the company has increased the size of its production print business more than fivefold. In this process, Konica Minolta has implemented its own unique measures to strengthen the commercial and industrial printing business ahead of its competitors in the industry. These measures include applying its prowess in inkjet technology to the production print area, launching the Marketing Production Management (MPM) service that helps customers improve the printing process and supports planning and production of high value-added printed materials tailored to specific purposes such as sales promotion, entering into a financial and strategic alliance with MGI, acquiring additional stake in MGI and consolidating the financial results of MGI.
Under its Mid-term Business Strategy, Konica Minolta plans to expand its business by offering new solutions in industrial printing as well as value-added services in commercial printing to achieve its target to increase the total revenue in the production print business to 360 billion yen in fiscal 2020. Especially in the label and packaging markets, various and small-lot production has become available at an accelerated pace. Placing importance on the label and packaging markets that are likely to continue to steadily grow in the future, Konica Minolta has already prepared itself to cater to the needs of this promising market with the official launch of the bizhub PRESS C71cf on-demand label printer and the AccurioJet KM-1 B2 digital inkjet press, as well as by entering into a financial and strategic alliance with MGI.
Sharp Earns Business Technology Association’s Top 2015 Channel’s Choice Award
October 28, 2016 11:34 am Comments Off on Sharp Earns Business Technology Association’s Top 2015 Channel’s Choice Award
Kansas City, MO – May 2015 – Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America was recently presented with the 2015 Channel’s Choice Superior Performance Award by the Business Technology Association (BTA; www.bta.org). Pete Salmon, vice president of Western Region Sales for Sharp, accepted the coveted award on behalf of Sharp on May 7 from 2014-15 BTA President Ron Hulett at BTA’s Cruise to Success event, hosted by BTA Mid-America at the Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota. In addition, Sharp received Channel’s Choice awards in the Distribution and Product Line performance categories. The company was also among the winners in a three-way tie for the Channel Choice Award in the Corporate Support performance category.

Two other manufacturers were also presented with 2015 Channel’s Choice awards. KYOCERA Document Solutions America received the award for its Outstanding Performance as a Secondary Product Line Provider. The company also received an award in the three-way tie in the Corporate Support performance category. Tom Walsh, vice president of the Western Division for Kyocera, accepted the awards.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc. received the award in the Inventory performance category as well as an award in the three-way tie in the Corporate Support performance category. Rick Taylor, president and CEO for Konica Minolta and the keynote presenter at the Cruise to Success event, accepted the awards.

BTA also presented 2015 Channel’s Choice awards in two other categories. MSE received the award in the Remanufactured Cartridges category. Paolo Galvez, a key account manager at MSE, accepted the award. GreatAmerica Financial Services received the award in the Third-Party Leasing category. Josie Heskje, director of strategic marketing for the Office Equipment Group at GreatAmerica, accepted the award.

Earlier this year, BTA emailed a link to the online ballot to all of its dealer members and a number of dealers outside of its membership. The association also encouraged industry vendors to provide the ballot link to dealers. The ballot asked dealers to rate their primary- and secondary-line hardware vendors in key performance categories, as well as to rate vendors in the two additional award categories — remanufactured cartridges and third-party leasing. The balloting results determined the Channel’s Choice award winners. BTA received 343 completed ballots.

“BTA’s annual Channel’s Choice awards program, which began in 1989, provides dealers with a means of recognizing and honoring those vendors that are the most supportive of the dealer channel,” Hulett said. “Through the years, we have honored a number of deserving vendors for their outstanding product lines, exceptional levels of performance and dealer support. As our 2015 Channel’s Choice winners, we congratulate GreatAmerica, Konica Minolta, Kyocera, MSE and Sharp, and express our sincere thanks for their exceptional support of the BTA Channel.”

A summary of balloting results will be made available to BTA members. The summary, currently being prepared by Industry Analysts Inc., based in Rochester, New York, will provide a view of how dealers rate their vendor partners. When completed, the summary will be available for download to BTA members at www.bta.org/ChannelsChoice (a username and password is required to download the summary).

Founded in 1926, the Business Technology Association serves office technology dealerships, resellers, manufacturers, distributors and service companies. Its core members — office technology dealerships — consult, sell and service hardware, software and supplies with the primary goal of helping businesses optimize business document and information workflows. Through the association’s various educational programs, information, research, legal services, publications and guidance, BTA member dealerships are positioned to be the premier source of the office technology used by businesses throughout the United States every day. For more information on BTA, see its Web site at http://www.bta.org or call (800) 505-2821. The fax number is (816) 941-4838. You may also
Sharp Wins Business Technology Association’s Top Award For The Channel’s Choice Of Primary Vendor
11:34 am Comments Off on Sharp Wins Business Technology Association’s Top Award For The Channel’s Choice Of Primary Vendor
Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), has received the 2015 Business Technology Association (BTA) top overall Channel’s Choice award for overall satisfaction of a manufacturer based on: Corporate Support, Distribution, Product Line and Inventory performance. The award recognizes Superior Performance as a Primary Line Provider and was presented at a ceremony during a BTA Event held in Minneapolis, on May 7.

The awards were based on the results of BTA’s “Channel’s Choice” survey of dealers, ranking the level of satisfaction with their equipment manufacturer/suppliers in various performance categories.

“BTA’s annual Channel’s Choice awards program, which began in 1989, provides dealers with a means of recognizing and honoring those vendors that are the most supportive of the dealer channel,” said 2014-15 BTA President Ron Hulett. “Through the years, we have honored a number of deserving vendors for their outstanding product lines, exceptional levels of performance and dealer support. As one of our 2015 Channel’s Choice winners, we congratulate Sharp and express our sincere thanks for its exceptional support of the BTA Channel.”

In addition to the top overall award, Sharp received three additional awards that were presented by BTA President Ron Hulett as follows:

(1) Distribution Performance, measuring availability of marketing support funds and programs, parity between vendor direct and dealer channel, as well as overall distribution policy.

(2) Product Line Performance, measuring features, availability, and reliability of current product line offerings, support for Managed Print Services and overall ease of installation.

(3) Corporate Support Performance, measuring responsiveness of corporate administrative support and knowledge, professionalism and availability and effectiveness of training.

“Sharp is very proud to be recognized by BTA and the dealer community as the top performing primary line provider,” said Doug Albregts, president, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “With the support of our outstanding dealer network, Sharp has been the industry’s fastest growing vendor over the past two years. This award affirms our dealers’ satisfaction with our direction, but also re-invigorates us to continue our never ending quest to be an “irresistible partner”.”

BTA’s Channel Choice Award winners were determined by the results of ballots cast by 343 independent dealers located throughout the country. The dealer votes were tabulated by Rochester, N.Y., office equipment market analyst firm, Industry Analysts Inc.
Konica Minolta Clover Announce Toner Partnership
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RAMSEY, NJ – April 2015 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions, one of the world’s leaders in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud service, and Clover, the global leader in the recovery, refurbishment, remanufacturing and redeployment of business and electronic assets, announced today a partnership that will make Clover a strategic toner supplier for Konica Minolta.

The partnership represents an expansion of the existing relationship between the two companies to deliver greater value and service to Konica Minolta customers.

“The partnership with Clover fits our ongoing commitment to provide our customers with the best products and services available to meet their needs,” said Sam Errigo, Senior Vice President, Business Intelligence Services. “Clover is a leader in the toner industry and provides a perfect complement to our current offerings. Our customers will benefit from an expanded selection of premium quality products and increased availability.”

Clover sells more remanufactured toner and inkjet cartridges than anyone else in the industry. With six strategically-located distribution centers, Clover is able to provide ground shipping to 95% of the country in one to two days.

“We have had a working relationship with Konica Minolta for many years and we look forward to the new opportunities this strengthened partnership brings,” said Eric Martin, president of North American Sales for Clover. “Our unparalleled global footprint and manufacturing and engineering strength are unique in the industry and enable us to offer a diverse line of products while bringing new products to market faster than our competitors.”

About Clover

Founded in 1996, Clover is the leading printer cartridge remanufacturer in the world, as well as the leading empty cartridge collector worldwide with over 1.2 billion in annual revenue and over 60 locations worldwide. Clover has been providing the most recognizable OEM alternative brands to the world’s largest office supplies retailers, corporate solutions providers and other OEMs for nearly two decades. The complete line of Clover’s quality toner and ink is available through leading office products distributors and resellers and marketed under a variety of private label brands. In 2015 Clover created a comprehensive marketing umbrella called the Clover Imaging Group that unites all of its imaging assets under one roof bringing the market the most comprehensive suite of products, solutions, and collections programs to the global market. The combined power of this group will bring customers of the Clover Imaging Group unparalleled value and create a new benchmark for partnership in the imaging space. To learn more, visit www.clovertech.com.
Sharp Announces Tour de Force 2015 Road Tour
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Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) today announces a 2015 road tour kicking off on May 7th and running through June 16th.

Over the next 7 weeks, Sharp’s team will host meetings in key cities to meet with dealers and discuss industry trends, highlight product offerings and outline future plans. This tour follows last year’s highly successful events. Sharp has a full agenda planned, featuring two tracks of informative sessions for dealers and their sales teams. Executive-level business sessions, dealer panels sharing best practices, new product category opportunities and professional sales training workshops are among the many educational offerings.

In addition to the Sharp executives outlining key company initiatives, there will also be presentations from industry experts of which highlights include:
- A keynote session on the impacts of mobility presented by Angѐle Boyd and Keith Kmetz of International Data Corporation (IDC)
- A session on the latest industry benchmarks, model metrics and the role Managed Services plays in the dealer’s business planning process, presented by John Hey of Strategic Business Associates (SBA)
- New opportunities in Managed Network Services by Continuum, the industry’s only channel-exclusive provider of fully integrated managed IT services solutions
- A dynamic session for dealer sales teams on leveraging technology to open new doors, and strategies for going outside the current customer base, presented by Chris Ryne and Mitch Morgan of Growth Achievement Partners (GAP)
“The 2015 Road Tour provides our dealers with an opportunity to learn from the experts who are at the forefront of our evolving industry,” said Doug Albregts, President, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Attendees will learn about the issues impacting their business today, and will have an opportunity to have an open dialogue with Sharp’s senior executive team.”

Dates and locations for Sharp’s Road Tour are as follows: Boston (May 7 – 8), New Orleans (May 12 – 13), San Diego (May 18 – 19), Seattle (May 20 – 21), St. Louis (June 9 – 10) and Orlando (June 15 – 16).
Lexmark Announces Rebranding, Unveils New Logo
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A new logo and brand that emphasizes Lexmark’s continued evolution into a business information services powerhouse will be unveiled Tuesday.

The company’s Perceptive Software division will switch to the Lexmark name, although its products will remain under the Perceptive banner. The move brings all of Lexmark’s recent worldwide acquisitions of business information and software companies under the company’s name.

“The rebranding reflects both the evolution of the company as well as our … aspiration to be a leading global technology company,” Paul Rooke, president and chief executive officer of Lexmark, said Monday.

Under Rooke’s leadership, Lexmark has moved into the full spectrum of business information in addition to print services. The company now lays claim to being a source for business software and applications for a variety of needs, and has acquired companies in the United States and abroad to bolster segments including health care content management, financial process automation and enterprise search.

The new branding signals “that this is a new and evolving, changing company,” Rooke said.

Lexmark was spun off from IBM in 1991. The company sells its products and services in more than 170 countries.

The new logo, Rooke said, “is a nod to our past with the historical Lexmark diamond … (but) a new visual representation and aperture.”

The logo aperture, with its four shades of green, is significant, Rooke said. Like the aperture of a camera, the opening can expand, “which talks to the expansion of our opportunities … but also it can focus in” for customer-driven solutions, he said.

The green color is significant because it is the color of renewal and serves as a signal that Lexmark wants to serve business customers over their entire life cycle, Rooke said.

The company’s logo tag line goes along with that theme: “Open the possibilities.”

“It’s an invitation to the customers to engage with us,” Rooke said.

The company plans to raise a flag with the new logo at its north Lexington headquarters Tuesday morning.

At the end of March, Lexmark announced its biggest-ever acquisition. The company is paying $1 billion to California-based Kofax, a move that will nearly double the size of the company’s enterprise software business.

Read more here: http://www.kentucky.com/2015/04/07/3787811_lexmark-announces-rebranding-…
Sharp Electronics’ SmartStorage® Behind-the-Meter Energy Storage Solution Installed on Baker Electric Facility in Southern California
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Escondido, California – Sharp Electronics Corporation’s Energy Systems and Services Group (Sharp) is pleased to announce that it has installed its SmartStorage® energy storage solution at Baker Electric’s headquarters located in Escondido. The 30 kW storage system is coupled with Baker’s existing 90 kW solar PV system. Baker Electric, a key channel ally of Sharp, has selected the SmartStorage® solution to help cap expensive utility demand charges for its commercial building customers.

Peak demand charges are the fastest growing part of utility bills for commercial and industrial customers and can represent up to 50 percent of a company’s monthly utility bill. The SmartStorage® energy storage solution is a unique battery-based demand management system designed to reduce commercial and industrial buildings’ peak electricity use. It combines Sharp’s intelligent energy management system with cutting-edge hardware, operating seamlessly as a stand-alone solution or when deployed along with a solar system.

“Baker Electric brings decades of experience offering innovative technologies to its customers, including solar solutions in recent years. Their PV solutions coupled with our SmartStorage® energy storage solution provide a powerful duo for building owners wanting to lower peak demand usage without disrupting their day-to-day operations,” commented Carl Mansfield, General Manager of Sharp Electronics Corporation’s Energy Systems and Services Group.

The SmartStorage® system employs sophisticated, predictive analytics and controls to manage the release of energy from the battery, resulting in high performance, high system efficiency and world-class reliability. The SmartStorage® system can also make existing solar installations economically viable where they otherwise would not be.

Baker Electric’s SmartStorage® system installation is backed by Sharp’s innovative 10-year Asset Management Service Agreement which provides all routine and unscheduled maintenance coupled with a 10-year demand reduction performance guarantee.

“Our customers have come to expect the highest quality, highest performing products available on the market. After an exhaustive search in identifying the best solution to help lower demand charges for our customers and our own facility, we chose Sharp’s SmartStorage® system, not only because it exceeds the quality standards we are known for, but because we also have confidence in Sharp standing behind its product by offering its unique 10-year Asset Management Service Agreement and performance guarantee,” said Ted Baker, CEO of Baker Electric.

The SmartStorage® energy storage solution has undergone more than 18 months of field testing benefitting from Sharp’s world-class attention to quality and safety. The energy storage component of Sharp’s SmartStorage® system consists of state-of-the art lithium-ion batteries, which have been tested, listed and labeled as compliant with UL safety standards.
Konica Minolta Builds Up Global MPM Service Structure
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Tokyo (March 27, 2015) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced that it has built up a global structure for its Marketing Print Management (MPM) services by adding the U.S. and Japan to the existing business areas of Europe and Asia Pacific.

Konica Minolta has been providing its MPM services to marketing divisions of major global corporations. Specialists from Konica Minolta are stationed at the clients’ offices to work on print production of promotional materials and run centralized management on the contents, process, quality and delivery. Through these initiatives, Konica Minolta helps the clients optimize their return on investment, and thereby contribute to revenue increase and brand enhancement of the clients.

While Konica Minolta has been highly appraised and well accepted by the customers for the initiatives and the effectiveness, there are strong demands for making MPM services available in regions such as the U.S. and Japan where the clients run operations in addition to Europe and Asia Pacific.

With the establishment of subsidiaries and launching operations in the U.S. and Japan, Konica Minolta has instituted an enhanced structure to provide MPM services on a global scale, covering Europe, the U.S., Japan and Asia Pacific. That enables Konica Minolta to deliver its MPM services, with the same standards and quality, to markets and regions which account for the most part of the sales at major global corporations.

Going forward, the new global network will focus on MPM services, while sharing across borders know-how in Marketing Management Service (MMS), originating from Europe, to expand it into other regions and establish itself as valuable marketing partner for global corporations. In addition, Konica Minolta will communicate to print suppliers in each region about high versatility and convenience of digital printing systems in the printing production of many materials in small quantities for marketing activities. Taking advantage of those benefits, Konica Minolta will offer total solution proposals such as overall streamlining in printing production, including output process management and distribution, and communication support services that strengthen relationships between the clients and their customers.

Under the brand proposition “Giving Shape to Ideas,” Konica Minolta is enhancing the corporate value of its entire group by turning new ideas into solutions and services around the globe with high added value that meet market needs while raising the level of customer satisfaction.
Lexmark Enters Agreement to Acquire California-Based Kofax for $1 Billion
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Lexmark will acquire Kofax, a California-based customer information software company, for $1 billion, it announced Wednesday.

Kofax, with more than 20,000 customers worldwide, had revenue of $297 million in 2014, according to a Lexmark news release stated.

The acquisition is the latest Lexmark purchase since 2010, when the Lexington-based company became more focused on providing end-to-end business solutions rather than just printers.

Kofax, founded in 1985, markets processes that allow customers to capture, manage, access and act on information.

The board of directors of Kofax voted unanimously in favor of the acquisition. When completed, the acquisition will double the size of Lexmark’s enterprise software business.

Scott Coons, president of Lexmark’s Perceptive Software unit and Lexmark vice president, said the acquisition gives the company “an unmatched ability to help customers of all sizes, in all industries and across the globe to connect unstructured information to their systems of record.”

Other recent Lexmark acquisitions include Twistage, a San Francisco company with a pure cloud software platform for managing video, audio and image content; ISYS software, now called Perceptive Search, an Australia-based company that allows companies to locate information inside every document, file and email; and Pallas Athena, a Netherlands-based company with expertise in business process software in the insurance, government and life sciences segments; Claron Technology, a medical imaging software company; and ReadSoft, a document management software company.

Read more here: http://www.kentucky.com/2015/03/24/3765829_lexmark-enters-agreement-to-a…
IDC MarketScape Again Names Lexmark an Industry Leader in Smart MFPs
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LEXINGTON, Ky., March 25, 2015 /PRNewswire/ —
- Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) has once again been named as a leader in smart multifunction products (MFPs) by the IDC MarketScape: U.S. “Smart” Multifunction Peripheral 2014 – 2015 Smart Vendor Assessment report, which analyzes the strategies and current capabilities of companies providing smart MFPs.
- As defined by the IDC MarketScape, leaders are companies that have led and continue to lead the market in both breadth of offering and strategic intent.
- The report states that Lexmark has enhanced the value proposition of its smart MFPs over the last year with several accomplishments including embedded applications for serverless print release, Classify and Route, and AccuRead OCR.
- In addition to smart MFPs, IDC has also named Lexmark a leader in managed print services three consecutive times.
Supporting Quotes:
- The IDC MarketScape report states, “Perhaps as important as these business process initiatives, IDC has recognized Lexmark as a Leader in managed print services. Its smart MFP portfolio, business process acquisition activity and leading MPS position put Lexmark in a strong position to provide for hardware, software and services requirements around the document and workflow.”
- “Smart MFPs are a pivotal component in Lexmark’s smart MFP ecosystem, enhancing workforce productivity while enabling our customers to improve processes, print less, decrease costs and reduce risk,” said Marty Canning, Lexmark executive vice president and president of Imaging Solutions and Services. “We are proud of the IDC MarketScape’s recognition of Lexmark’s leadership in both smart MFPs and managed print services. We remain focused on delivering innovative devices, solutions and services that provide process improvements and sustainable value for our customers.”
Supporting Resources:
- More about this report
- More analysts insights
About IDC MarketScape

IDC MarketScape vendor analysis model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of IT, telecommunications, or industry-specific suppliers in a given market. The research methodology utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each vendor’s position within a given market. IDC MarketScape provides a clear framework in which the product and service offerings, capabilities and strategies, and current and future market success factors of IT, telecommunications, or industry-specific vendors can be meaningfully compared. The framework also provides technology buyers with a transparent foundation to allow companies to independently compare the strengths and weaknesses of current and prospective vendors.
Supplies Network Adds Lexmark BSD Equipment to its Product Line
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St. Louis, MO March 9, 2015 – Supplies Network is pleased to announce it is now an authorized distributor of the Lexmark Business Solutions Dealer (BSD) equipment product line. As a high-volume BSD supplies distributor, the addition of this exclusive equipment line allows BSD resellers to simplify sourcing to a single distributor for BSD and the entire Lexmark product portfolio. This equipment lineup ships same-day via Supplies Network’s national distribution network for fast, cost-effective delivery.

“Lexmark has been a great partner for many years. This announcement further solidifies our commitment to their products within the BTA channel and the growth of their hardware business as a whole,” said Monte White, Vice President-Product Marketing. “Supplies Network is making considerable investments to become the single-source destination for all imaging products and this announcement supports that vision.” Lexmark BSD products complement Supplies Network’s comprehensive Managed Print Solutions offering and are available to all authorized Lexmark BSD partners.

To learn more about Supplies Network’s comprehensive Lexmark BSD product line, contact Anthony Casalone, Printer Solutions Advisor, at Anthony.Casalone@SuppliesNetwork.com or 844-386-6625.

About Supplies Network:

Supplies Network is a national wholesale distributor of IT consumables, imaging equipment, parts and data storage products from over 80 leading manufacturers. An early innovator of Managed Print Services, the company leverages top industry talent, a dedicated IT development team with experience in packaging SaaS services and relationships with all segments of the print-provider value chain including major supplies manufacturers and dealers. Reseller-branded drop-ship reaches 99% of the U.S. population within 1-2 days via ground shipping. Visit www.suppliesnetwork.com for more information.
Konica Minolta Awarded “Prime” Status by Oekom Research for Corporate Social Responsibility
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Tokyo (February 24, 2015) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) is pleased to announce that the company has been awarded Prime Status by the Germany-based oekom research AG (oekom) in its 2015 Corporate Rating as one of global leading companies for corporate social responsibility within the industry segment of electronic device and appliance. The company has maintained Prime Status for five years since 2011.

Known as one of the world’s leading rating agencies for its internationally-acclaimed researches in sustainable investment and sustainability ratings, oekom has been evaluating companies around the world through its original Corporate Rating with a comprehensive set of criteria in terms of social and environmental measures. A company is given Prime Status if it ranks among the best companies in the same industry segment in the overall rating.

In this assessment, Konica Minolta earned the highest evaluation for eco-efficiency. The company was also highly appraised in the following perspectives:
- Global medium-term environmental plan and promotion of diverse initiatives with the goals of both environmental impact reduction and increase in corporate value;
- Efforts to minimize material use, including utilization of recycled materials through its proprietary technologies;
- Advanced implantation of chemical substance management; and
- Stringent response to evolving environmental standards
Based on its management vision to become “a global company that is vital to the society” and “an innovative company that is robust and constantly evolving,” Konica Minolta aims to both meet its social responsibilities and build on its competitive edges. The Konica Minolta Group has selected issues, such as environmental challenges, that are very important to society and have a great impact on its businesses and internationally drive CSR initiatives embedded in the businesses by utilizing its proprietary technologies and long-fostered know-how. The comprehensive management system and activities have been highly appraised.

Besides the oekom Prime Status, Konica Minolta has been included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for three years in a row, in the FTSE4Good Global Index by the FTSE Group in the UK for twelve years and the Japan-based Morningstar Socially Responsible Investment Index. The company has also been awarded RobecoSAM Gold Class. In addition, in 2014 Konica Minolta was selected by CDP for inclusion in both its global Climate Change Performance Leadership Index and Japan 500 Climate Change Disclosure Leadership Index.

Under the brand proposition “Giving Shape to Ideas,” Konica Minolta will continue developing innovative ideas and ability to put those ideas into practice toward creation of new values that contribute to solve issues in the global society through its business-integrated CSR activities.

For additional information about Konica Minolta’s CSR initiatives, please visit
Konica Minolta Awarded RobecoSAM Gold Class: Leading the Sector for Environmental & Economic Dimensions Including Innovation Management
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Tokyo (February 19, 2015) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) has been awarded RobecoSAM Gold Class, a global distinction for corporate sustainability.

RobecoSAM, based in Switzerland, is the investment specialist focused exclusively on Sustainability Investing. RobecoSAM invites over 3,000 of the world’s largest companies to participate in the Corporate Sustainability Assessment. Results are analyzed in terms of economic, environmental and social issues with a focus on long-term value creation. Recently RobecoSAM has released its annual “Sustainability Yearbook 2015” in which 69 companies are ranked as Gold Class. Five Japanese companies including Konica Minolta are awarded Gold Class. Among the Computers & Peripherals and Office Electronics sector, Konica Minolta is the only Japanese company as Gold Class.

In this year’s assessment, Konica Minolta has earned the highest evaluation in the Computers & Peripherals and Office Electronics sector for its economic initiatives including innovation management and risk management, as well as for environmental initiatives on climate change strategies, environmental policy and its management.

Globally, institutional investors have been paying close attention not only to financial indices but also to environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts and policies in evaluating corporations’ long-term and sustainable value creation. Socially responsible investment (SRI) assessment companies provides those institutional investors with company ratings based on ESG researches.

Based on its management vision to become “a global company that is vital to the society” and “an innovative company that is robust and constantly evolving,” Konica Minolta aims to both meet its social responsibilities and build on its competitive edges. The Konica Minolta Group has selected issues, such as environmental challenges, that are very important to society and have a great impact on its businesses, and internationally drives CSR initiatives embedded in the businesses by utilizing its proprietary technologies and long-fostered know-how. The comprehensive management system and activities have been highly appraised.

Under the brand proposition “Giving Shape to Ideas,” Konica Minolta will continue developing innovative ideas and ability to put those ideas into practice toward creation of new values that contribute to solve issues in the global society through its business-integrated CSR activities.
Get to Know Us: Former Company President Jerry Minor
October 16, 2016 6:54 pm Leave a Comment
Get to know the MMIT Business Solutions team, past and present, here.

Long before the company became MMIT Business Solutions, Jerry Minor lead a team of dedicated M&M Sales Company employees. Years later, the charismatic, kind, humorous, wise family man and former company president still claim its heart.

Jerry’s Start

Although it may seem logical for a son to run his father’s business, it didn’t start out that way for Jerry. “I was in the Navy for a while,” he said. “I was in Naval ROTC Officer training when [WWII] ended.”

After his time in the Navy, Jerry attended the University of Wisconsin as a chemical engineering student and received his degree in 1948. Upon graduation, he got a job in the research department at Sinclair Oil Company in Chicago. He worked for two years at Sinclair before he decided to make a change.

“That’s what I’d planned to do, be a chemical engineer. I’d always had an interest in chemistry,” he said. “But I decided that Des Moines, Iowa was a better place to live and I could make more money working for my father.”

Jerry also met his late wife, Jackie, while working at Sinclair. She was his boss’s secretary at the time. When they got married, Jerry was 23 and Jackie was 21. It was so long ago that “there was no air conditioning,” Jerry laughed.

So, in 1950, Jerry moved back to Des Moines with Jackie and started working for his father, Gilbert Minor.

Jerry on M&M Sales Co.

Jerry began his time at M&M Sales Co. as a salesman. He was responsible for the sale of several products such as mimeograph machines, time clocks, postal meter machines and blueprint machines, but copiers weren’t in the mix yet. “When I started working there in 1950, there weren’t any copy machines,” Jerry said. “We went through all of World War II without copy machines.”

He explained that his father, Gilbert, worked for a company that manufactured typewriter ribbons and carbon paper. “When people typed letters, they made like six copies at the time they typed the letter,” he said. “They had to have really thin carbon paper in order to insert it between sheets when they typed their letters.”

“The carbon paper is what a copy machine is now,” he added.

Jerry said that his father sold the carbon paper to law offices, courthouses and more. And at that time, the company was a “sole business.” It wasn’t until Gilbert convinced the company to sell their ribbons of carbon paper in Des Moines in 1937 that “the business got started.”

However, Jerry said the company really “got going” in 1952 when a representative from APECO set them up as a photocopy equipment dealer. “Most companies had direct representatives that sold their equipment, but when the Japanese companies came to the United States, they set up dealers in different cities to sell their products,” he mentioned. “That’s how we became a photocopy business.”

Jerry called it a “big change” for the industry and for the company. “We were in the right place at the right time,” he said.

Passing the Torch

Soon, M&M became a corporation and Jerry was named the company’s vice president. He went on to become the president, and he held that position until he turned 65 in 1992. When asked what it was like to pass on the position to his son and current company president, Tom Minor, Jerry shared nothing but grateful words.

“That worked out well. I was fortunate enough to have Tom there to take over so that I could retire without worrying about things. He’d been there for 15 or 20 years already,” he said.

Jerry continued: “It sure was a good deal for me to have to do that. It would have been bad for the rest of the employees to have to sell the business. Some of these bigger companies could buy you out or make a lot of changes or cut out things you’ve been doing for your employees. It was so nice for everybody concerned to have someone right there to step in without a worry.”

Jerry on Retired Life

Jerry has been retired for more than 20 years now, but he doesn’t mind. When asked what it was like to retire, he simply laughed and said, “It was great!”

Now, he doesn’t have any trouble keeping busy. “I always said I should go back to work so I’d have more free time.”

Jerry fills his days with yard work, taking care of the house, church activities, spending time with family, and going to the gym. But don’t let him fool you. He still works from time to time. “I still do some bookkeeping and accounting, and I have meetings sometimes. I’m still chairman of the board, so I do spend some time—not too much—with the company.”

Looking Back

Jerry also reflected on his life, past and present, and spoke highly of his family.

“Having six kids wasn’t easy at first, especially for my wife, but it’s so nice to have six kids now,” he said. “I’m fortunate enough to be in good health myself and have all of my kids and grandchildren really healthy.”

“My life has really been a joy,” Jerry admitted.

When asked if there was any advice he could give to others, he declared:

“Work hard and do your best to stay in good health by eating the right things and exercising. And just enjoy your family and your children that you have. That’s something you can be proud of.”
Sharp Earns Six Top Awards from Buyers Laboratory
August 4, 2016 8:58 am Comments Off on Sharp Earns Six Top Awards from Buyers Laboratory
MAHWAH, NJ-August 06,2015 Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, has earned six Summer 2015 Pick awards from Buyers Laboratory LLC (BLI), the world’s leading independent evaluator of document imaging products and solutions. Sharp received top accolades across the multifunction printer (MFP) product spectrum, including the flagship Pro Series, for superior quality and high reliability in their respective categories.

BLI’s semi-annual awards are given to the hardware and software offerings judged to demonstrate the most important performance factors for buyers. With its Pick awards, BLI gives special recognition to those products with the most outstanding performance across its exhaustive lab tests. The Outstanding Achievement awards acknowledge products or capabilities that exhibit attributes such as innovation, usefulness, energy efficiency, reliability or value.

“Sharp’s A3 Pick winners prove that there doesn’t have to be a cost trade-off for high performance,” said George Mikolay, BLI’s Senior Product Editor for A3 Copiers/MFPs. “These Pick winning models are among the lowest cost of their peers, and exhibited excellent reliability over the course of nearly 1 million combined impressions. Add in innovative features which including tandem printing, an integrated keyboard to simplify data entry, Sharp Cloud Portal Office integration, and in the case of the Sharp Pro Series, integration of EFI Fiery Command WorkStation into the control panel and full-bleed booklet printing, and you have an overall value offering that’s hard to beat.”

Sharp’s Flagship MX-6500N / MX-7500N Pro Series

Equipped with the advanced MX-PE10 EFI™ Fiery® Server controller, the Sharp MX-6500N and Sharp MX-7500N models won the Pick for the “Outstanding 61- to 70-ppm A3 Color MFP” and “Outstanding 71- to 80-ppm A3 Color MFP” categories, respectively. Ideal for Print On-Demand environments, the Pro Series models were noted for their competitive price, high reliability and excellent feature set–including the optional air-feed system and industry-first integration of EFI’s Command WorkStation into the touch-screen display of the device.

The Pro Series provides multifunction versatility with unique key features that enhance operability and maintain consistent results page after page, job after job, with stunning image quality and increased reliability.

Sharp MX-564N / MX-M754N Monochrome Workgroup / High-Speed Document Systems

Sharp’s monochrome MFP models also received top marks. Part of the Sharp Essentials Series delivering excellent value for busy workgroup environments, the MX-M564N was awarded this summer’s Pick in the “Outstanding Entry-Level 51- to 60-ppm A3 Monochrome MFP” category. Designed with cost-conscious customers in mind, the MX-M564N provides full multifunction capability (copying, network printing and network scanning) at a speed of 56-ppm.

Also recognized was the high speed Sharp MX-M754N which was selected as the recipient of the Pick in the “Outstanding 71- to 80-ppm A3 Monochrome MFP” category. Designed for large workgroups and departmental environments with demanding workflow requirements, the MX-754N delivers high productivity and strong versatility, along with powerful multitasking workflow features and exceptional image quality at speeds up to 75-ppm.

Sharp MX-C301W Color Desktop Workgroup Systems.

The MX-C301W color MFP received the Pick in both the “Outstanding Color MFP for Small to Mid-Size Workgroups” and “Outstanding Achievement in Energy Efficiency” categories. Offering exceptional color output combined with flexible workflow capabilities, the MX-C301W has a compact footprint that fits on a small desk. BLI also praised the model’s superior energy efficiency with energy consumption rates roughly 51 percent lower than the competitive average.

Sharp’s Highly Recommended Document Systems

In addition to the six best in class wins, all twelve of Sharp’s document systems reviewed by BLI were given “highly recommended” ratings–the highest mark a product can receive from the industry evaluator.”Sharp is proud to receive six Summer 2015 Pick Awards from BLI for outstanding MFP performance,” said Mike Marusic, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Operations, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Our mission is to continuously enhance our R&D to provide customers with the industry leading productivity and reliability. These latest awards from BLI re-affirm our commitment to that goal.”
Konica Minolta Targets Small and Mid-Sized Offices with Cost Efficient bizhubs
8:58 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Targets Small and Mid-Sized Offices with Cost Efficient bizhubs
Ramsey, NJ – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud services, announced today the launch of four new multi-function products (MFPs) intended for small and mid-sized offices and departmental use. These new products, which include the bizhub 287, bizhub 227, bizhub C368, and bizhub C308, can easily adapt to tackle diverse work styles, including standard web browser and Open API support to connect to specialized applications and easy access to mobile connectivity.

The featured mobile connectivity supports a wide range of devices, including smartphones and tablets that are NFC (Near Field Communication) capable. Konica Minolta’s award-winning INFO-Palette control panel design rounds out the package for a unified user experience across our office product line.

bizhub 287 & bizhub 227

Both of these monochrome MFPs are exceptionally cost efficient, bridging the gap between Compact (A4) MFPs and traditional mid-volume office MFPs. The bizhub 287, a 28 ppm machine, and the bizhub 227, which runs at 22 ppm, have many eco-friendly attributes that differentiate them from other products. These features include:
- Low energy consumption
- Use of recycled materials in the manufacturing of the machine
- Energy Star and EPEAT certifications
bizhub C368 & bizhub C308

The robust feature set and outstanding color output quality of these new color MFPs are only the beginning of the story. The new bizhub C368, a 36 ppm machine, and the bizhub C308, a 30 ppm machine, offer innovative solutions to address a wide range of customer needs. Newly added functions include a mobile connectivity area built into the control panel, detachable universal trays and a hard disk mirroring option. The C368 and C308 also feature:
- Standard web browser
- Open API
- 9” control panel featuring a mobile touch area with support for NFC (Near Field Communication)
- Optional Fiery controller
“With today’s new product launches, Konica Minolta continues its legacy of developing great products and offering a new level of efficiency and flexibility,” says Kevin P. Kern, senior vice president, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. “Konica Minolta continues to demonstrate its commitment to provide new tools that will empower our clients and optimize their workflow, the implementation of our next generation system architecture with standard browser functionality.”

Republished with permission from Buyers Laboratory LLC (www.buyerslab.com). ©2013 Buyers Laboratory LLC
Sharp Earns Six Top Awards from Buyers Laboratory
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MAHWAH, NJ-August 06,2015 Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, has earned six Summer 2015 Pick awards from Buyers Laboratory LLC (BLI), the world’s leading independent evaluator of document imaging products and solutions. Sharp received top accolades across the multifunction printer (MFP) product spectrum, including the flagship Pro Series, for superior quality and high reliability in their respective categories.

BLI’s semi-annual awards are given to the hardware and software offerings judged to demonstrate the most important performance factors for buyers. With its Pick awards, BLI gives special recognition to those products with the most outstanding performance across its exhaustive lab tests. The Outstanding Achievement awards acknowledge products or capabilities that exhibit attributes such as innovation, usefulness, energy efficiency, reliability or value.

“Sharp’s A3 Pick winners prove that there doesn’t have to be a cost trade-off for high performance,” said George Mikolay, BLI’s Senior Product Editor for A3 Copiers/MFPs. “These Pick winning models are among the lowest cost of their peers, and exhibited excellent reliability over the course of nearly 1 million combined impressions. Add in innovative features which including tandem printing, an integrated keyboard to simplify data entry, Sharp Cloud Portal Office integration, and in the case of the Sharp Pro Series, integration of EFI Fiery Command WorkStation into the control panel and full-bleed booklet printing, and you have an overall value offering that’s hard to beat.”

Sharp’s Flagship MX-6500N / MX-7500N Pro Series

Equipped with the advanced MX-PE10 EFI™ Fiery® Server controller, the Sharp MX-6500N and Sharp MX-7500N models won the Pick for the “Outstanding 61- to 70-ppm A3 Color MFP” and “Outstanding 71- to 80-ppm A3 Color MFP” categories, respectively. Ideal for Print On-Demand environments, the Pro Series models were noted for their competitive price, high reliability and excellent feature set–including the optional air-feed system and industry-first integration of EFI’s Command WorkStation into the touch-screen display of the device.

The Pro Series provides multifunction versatility with unique key features that enhance operability and maintain consistent results page after page, job after job, with stunning image quality and increased reliability.

Sharp MX-564N / MX-M754N Monochrome Workgroup / High-Speed Document Systems

Sharp’s monochrome MFP models also received top marks. Part of the Sharp Essentials Series delivering excellent value for busy workgroup environments, the MX-M564N was awarded this summer’s Pick in the “Outstanding Entry-Level 51- to 60-ppm A3 Monochrome MFP” category. Designed with cost-conscious customers in mind, the MX-M564N provides full multifunction capability (copying, network printing and network scanning) at a speed of 56-ppm.

Also recognized was the high speed Sharp MX-M754N which was selected as the recipient of the Pick in the “Outstanding 71- to 80-ppm A3 Monochrome MFP” category. Designed for large workgroups and departmental environments with demanding workflow requirements, the MX-754N delivers high productivity and strong versatility, along with powerful multitasking workflow features and exceptional image quality at speeds up to 75-ppm.

Sharp MX-C301W Color Desktop Workgroup Systems

The MX-C301W color MFP received the Pick in both the “Outstanding Color MFP for Small to Mid-Size Workgroups” and “Outstanding Achievement in Energy Efficiency” categories. Offering exceptional color output combined with flexible workflow capabilities, the MX-C301W has a compact footprint that fits on a small desk. BLI also praised the model’s superior energy efficiency with energy consumption rates roughly 51 percent lower than the competitive average.

Sharp’s Highly Recommended Document Systems

In addition to the six best in class wins, all twelve of Sharp’s document systems reviewed by BLI were given “highly recommended” ratings–the highest mark a product can receive from the industry evaluator.”Sharp is proud to receive six Summer 2015 Pick Awards from BLI for outstanding MFP performance,” said Mike Marusic, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Operations, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Our mission is to continuously enhance our R&D to provide customers with the industry leading productivity and reliability. These latest awards from BLI re-affirm our commitment to that goal.”

About Buyers Laboratory LLC

Buyers Laboratory LLC (BLI) is the world’s leading independent provider of analytical information and services to the digital imaging and document management industry. For over 50 years, buyers have relied on BLI to help them differentiate products’ strengths and weaknesses and make the best purchasing decisions, while industry sales, marketing and product professionals have turned to BLI for insightful competitive intelligence and valued guidance on product development, competitive positioning and sales channel and marketing support. Using BLI’s web-based bliQ and Solutions Center services, 40,000 professionals worldwide create extensive side-by-side comparisons of hardware and software solutions for over 15,000 products globally, including comprehensive specifications and the performance results and ratings from BLI’s unparalleled Lab, Solutions and Environmental Test Reports, the result of months of hands-on evaluation in its US and UK labs. The services, also available via mobile devices, include a comprehensive library of BLI’s test reports, an image gallery, hard to find manufacturers’ literature and valuable tools for configuring products, calculating total cost of ownership (TCO) and annual power usage. BLI also offers consulting and private, for-hire testing services that help manufacturers develop and market better products and consumables.

For more information on Buyers Laboratory LLC, please call 973-797-2100, visit www.buyerslab.com.
Konica Minolta Unveils New Inkjet Printheads with Increased Resolution and Print Speed, Along with Compatibility with Wide Range of Inks: Mass Production to Start in Spring 2016
8:58 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Unveils New Inkjet Printheads with Increased Resolution and Print Speed, Along with Compatibility with Wide Range of Inks: Mass Production to Start in Spring 2016
Tokyo (July 23, 2015) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced that it has developed three new industrial inkjet printheads that adopt its independently developed MEMS technologies. The mass production is planned to start in the spring of 2016.

The new inkjet printheads deliver higher resolution, higher accuracy and more enhanced jet characteristics than the existing printheads, while Konica Minolta’s independently developed MEMS technologies have realized the compact size and compatibility with a wide range of inks. With the introduction of these new products, Konica Minolta meets the market’s needs for higher performance inkjet printheads and will contribute to further growth of the printer market and development of new industrial inkjet applications.

Major Features

High-density Nozzle Array Head

Konica Minolta’s independently developed MEMS technologies have enabled 1024 nozzles to be arrayed three-dimensionally in high density. Furthermore, the company’s proprietary robust design has realized both high-resolution and high-accuracy inkjet printheads.

Improved Ink Resistance and Wide Viscosity Correspondency for Every Industrial Ink

Based on Konica Minolta’s long-fostered material technologies and highly heat-resistant design, the new printheads have improved resistance with inks, ranging from low-viscosity inks (aqueous inks) to high-viscosity inks (including UV inks and solvent inks), and compatible with every industrial ink.

Good for Use in Commercial Printing and Label Printing with Requirements for Higher Definition, Along with Printed Electronics (PE)

As the new printheads can print with higher resolution than existing products, they have improved applicability to commercial printing and label printing which require higher definition. They can also be used for PE and other applications that need higher jetting accuracy.

Ideal to Design High-resolution and Compact Printers

As the nozzle integration has made the printheads very compact, they can help printer manufacturers design high-resolution and compact printers.

Konica Minolta’s Inkjet Development and Production Technologies

Konica Minolta has been on the research and development of industrial inkjet technologies for more than 30 years since the infancy stage of the inkjet industry. While accumulating technological advancement, the company has spearheaded in understanding and meeting the market needs. With its expertise and competitive edges in the development and production for all of the ink, printhead and printer, the three key elements of inkjet printers, Konica Minolta has established robust design technologies to satisfy technical requirements of inks and printers. In addition, the company has developed not only MEMS process technology, which is important and essential to design and manufacture MEMS printheads, and inkjet printhead design technologies but also Robotic Assembling System, a new production technology for mass production.

Industrial inkjet has been rapidly expanding its scope of applications, ranging from commercial and graphic printing to digital textile printing, ceramic printing and PE, among others. For further growth of the market, it has become essential to address technical challenges such as higher resolution, improved image quality, higher speed, enhanced durability and compatibility with a wider variety of inks. With such market and technological backdrop, Konica Minolta has moved to develop the new industrial inkjet printheads.

Going forward, under the brand proposition “Giving Shape to Ideas,” Konica Minolta will develop highly value-added inkjet products based on its proprietary technology, contribute to expansion of industrial-use inkjet technology applications and the market development, and aims to be a company that is vital to society.
Konica Minolta Business Solutions Introduces Mobile Printing Technology Services
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Ramsey, NJ – July 2015 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud services, today introduces two new services that bolster mobile printing capabilities and control over the devices accessing company data, effectively addressing challenges related to “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) trends affecting all business environments.

EveryonePrint

EveryonePrint makes its debut to the United States market. This secure printing solution allows users to easily print to any desired printer on a business’s network. It can be installed as an on-premise or private cloud solution, and there’s no need for a mobile device to be added to a domain or to download print drivers. Whether in a small business or a global enterprise corporation, EveryonePrint provides a host of benefits, including:
- Authentication via Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) or Active Directory (to ensure only authorized users can print)
- End-to-end encryption of print jobs
- Secure release of print jobs
- IT administration full customization via a simple user interface
- Integration with any printing infrastructure, from printers and mobile devices to third-party print accounting solutions
EveryonePrint is available in four versions:
- Standalone – A per printer license that offers printing from an unlimited number of mobile devices to a single printer.
- Connect – Available as a per-server license. It offers the same functionality as the Standalone version, plus the ability to integrate with a variety of print accounting solutions such as Equitrac. This version is ideal for small to medium educational institutions and customers with simple networks.
- Professional – Also available as a per-server license with the same general functionality as Connect, but includes Wide Area printing, which allows users to use AirPrint across complex networks. Bundled with an MS Office conversion engine for printing MS Office documents without the need to install Office on the EveryonePrint server. This version is recommended for a wide pool of customers, including small- to mid-sized businesses and corporate enterprise environments, as well as government, education, healthcare and financial verticals.
- Enterprise – Available as a site license with an unlimited amount of server and printer licenses. This version offers the same functionality as the professional version and is recommended for all large enterprise and/or global accounts.
All versions provide users with five ways to print:
- Web – Users can upload documents via a web portal for printing.
- Email – Users send documents to print from any email enabled device.
- Google Cloud – Users can print using the native printing capabilities of an Android device.
- AirPrint – Users can print using the native printing capabilities of an iOS device.
- Driver – Users print directly from programs and applications installed on laptops and notebooks to any printer available in EveryonePrint. This is done via a generic print driver.
All Covered’s Mobile Management Services

Organizations that allow mobile users to connect to their networks and access sensitive data must have a firm control over the devices that are connecting. All Covered helps them do that with its comprehensive suite of Mobile Management Services that make it possible for organizations to monitor the mobile devices connecting to their systems and accessing corporate data. These services allow organizations to ensure that mobile devices connected to their network have access to the right resources with the right security in place, regardless of whether they are company or employee owned. They automatically enforce the separation of business data and personal data, while keeping both equally accessible for employees and other users.

All Covered’s mobile solution encompasses access control, monitoring, application management and data protection. These features can be automatically enforced, making sure a company, its customers and its staff are protected from security breaches and other risks while helping organizations to comply with industry regulations.

All Covered’s Mobile Management Services can empower organizations to:
- Enable secure access to corporate resources to empower your workforce
- Control enrollment of new devices to protect data on numerous mobile platforms
- Manage corporate and employee-owned devices for maximum flexibility and security
- Gain insight into mobile device usage to protect from hidden threats
“With these two introductions today, Konica Minolta continues to focus on enhancing the mobile user experience, that ever-growing ‘Bring Your Own Device’ – or BYOD – trend that is changing the way information technology is managed and drastically changing the way we work,” said Sam Errigo, Senior Vice President of Business Intelligence Services for Konica Minolta Business Solutions, USA, Inc. “It’s very exciting for us to be the first manufacturer to now bring EveryonePrint to the United States market along with All Covered’s mobile management – two services that truly complement each other, providing for a safe, effective mobile environment for all involved.”
Konica Minolta Builds Momentum and Strategic Growth with SymQuest Group Acquisition
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Ramsey, NJ – June 2, 2015 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc., a leader in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud services today announced the acquisition of SymQuest Group.

The acquisition accelerates Konica Minolta’s rapid growth with an increased presence in targeted geographic markets. As part of the agreement, SymQuest Group’s headquarters will remain in South Burlington, Vermont and Westbrook, Maine, and will retain its 186 employees throughout various branch offices and data centers.

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Konica Minolta Business Solutions, SymQuest Group will continue to deliver innovative, high quality solutions in office automation and operate under the leadership of co-founder Larry Sudbay.

“The SymQuest Group’s business model with a mix of office document and IT services is a perfect fit for us,” says Rick Taylor, President and COO, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. “We are receiving incredible talent and technology which fits both our market coverage and transformation directions. This is an exciting opportunity to help their customers bring their businesses to the next level.”

SymQuest Group’s customers will have access to Konica Minolta’s award-winning line up of products, applications, and services, including the All Covered IT division which offers a range of IT strategy, support, project and cloud computing solutions across all verticals. Ultimately, these enhanced capabilities will enable customers to experience faster and more efficient deliverables.

“As we examined the strategic options to accelerate our growth, we felt that partnering with Konica Minolta offered the best opportunity for our customers and employees,” says Larry Sudbay, President of SymQuest Group. “With its investment in both people and technology we will be able to expand our offerings and provide our clients with new services to enhance their productivity.”

SymQuest Group has a 20 year record of success and a national reputation for service excellence and innovation. This is Konica Minolta Business Solutions’ 20th acquisition in the last four years. With 8,000 employees, it is part of Konica Minolta Inc., a world leading global technology company investing more than $500 million annually in research and development.
New Release of Konica Minolta’s Dispatcher Phoenix Delivers High Availability for the Enterprise
8:58 am Comments Off on New Release of Konica Minolta’s Dispatcher Phoenix Delivers High Availability for the Enterprise
7/27/2016

Ramsey, NJ – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) today announced a major new release of its popular, dynamic and award-winning automated document workflow solution, Dispatcher Phoenix, Version 6.0. Available in different vertical editions to address specific business needs, Dispatcher Phoenix streamlines and automates common document processing tasks, maximizing productivity and helping users increase their business efficiencies.

This new release introduces added support for enterprise-level deployments, enhanced security, and a brand new web user interface. Addressing the needs of enterprise-level organizations, including optimal performance, maximum uptime, and scalability, these exciting new features include:
- Failover – A major requirement in mission-critical environments, Dispatcher Phoenix offers automated failover capabilities. If one server unexpectedly goes down, all workflow functions are automatically moved to the Dispatcher Phoenix Failover server, eliminating downtime. Heartbeat monitoring between Dispatcher Phoenix servers ensures continuous operation.
- Load Balancing – Document processing tasks can be automatically spread across multiple servers, preventing bottlenecks and speeding processing time. Automated redundancy, synchronizing and replicating workflows between all Dispatcher Phoenix servers are supported, eliminating the need for any human intervention.
- Offloading – Maximize productivity by automatically offloading processor-intensive tasks, such as OCR processing and traffic coming from MFPs, mobile devices and the web, to separate servers.
- Dispatcher Phoenix Web – Dispatcher Phoenix’s zero footprint web user interface provides centralized access to important enterprise tools as well as workflow sharing and control capabilities.
- Workflow Sharing – Workflows can be shared with specific users or groups of users in Active Directory, providing administrators with the fine-tune control they need to manage workflow access.
- Workflow Control – Administrators can run, pause and stop workflows without accessing the application.
- Dashboard – A graphical snapshot of the system is provided for analytics, monitoring and reporting.
- Application / Workflow Security – Users can now safeguard access to the application and workflows by setting up a password to be entered before the application is launched or a workflow is run.
- MFP Bulk Import – To speed up set up time, bulk importing of multiple MFPs for registration is supported.
“Konica Minolta understands the needs of our enterprise customers,” said Kevin Kern, Senior Vice President, Business Intelligence Solutions and Product Planning. “This powerful new release provides enterprise-level companies with the solution they need to best manage and control their documents, ultimately providing an improved level of customer service to their clients in less time.”

Republished with permission from Buyers Laboratory LLC (www.buyerslab.com). ©2016 Buyers Laboratory LLC
SHARP ADDS FOUR NEW MODELS TO HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL COLOR ADVANCED AND ESSENTIALS SERIES MFP LINE-UP
8:58 am Comments Off on SHARP ADDS FOUR NEW MODELS TO HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL COLOR ADVANCED AND ESSENTIALS SERIES MFP LINE-UP
MAHWAH, NJ, June 15, 2016

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), announces four new models in its series of mid-to-high volume color document systems. The addition of these new color Advanced and Essentials series models brings the total number of models in the series to 10, all built on a single-engine platform with an easy-to-use common interface. Each model provides stunning color output with exceptional ease of use. Businesses will also appreciate the common toner supplies across all ten models.

New Color Advanced Series Models: MX-5070N and MX-6070N

The MX-5070N and MX-6070N Advanced Series models offer output speeds of up to 60 ppm in color or monochrome and provide enhanced workflow solutions for busy workgroups and departmental environments. The new models also come equipped with a Sharp walk-up motion sensor that detects a user approaching and brings the machine to ready condition within seconds. The MX-5070N and MX-6070N models can also scan documents at up to 200 images per minute with the standard duplexing single pass feeder. All of the color Advanced Series models include the latest version of Sharp OSA® technology for easy integration with network applications and cloud services. The MX-5070N and MX-6070N models join the MX-3070N, MX-3570N and MX-4070N color Advanced Series models, which launched in December.

New Color Essentials Series Models: MX-5050N and MX-6050N

The MX-5050N and MX-6050N Essentials Series models also offer output speeds up to 60 ppm, but are designed for cost-conscious customers, offering out-of-box multifunction capability at a strong value. For businesses that use both the color Essentials Series and color Advanced Series models, the learning curve is easy since they all use the same interface. The MX-5050N and MX-6050N models join the MX-3050N, MX-3550N and MX-4050N color Essentials Series models that launched earlier this year.

The color Advanced Series and color Essentials Series document systems are designed with users in mind, enabling them to easily set up and execute workflow tasks. Both series are equipped with the next generation Sharp touchscreen display, offering an intuitive graphical interface with Easy Copy and Easy Scan screens, as well as quick access to on-board operation guides. Both model series also support popular mobile technologies, including Apple®, AirPrint®, Mopria™ , Android™ Print Service, Google Cloud Print™ and Sharpdesk® Mobile. Multi-layered security features from Sharp help ensure intellectual property and personal information is protected throughout the life of the device, and includes a standard end-of-lease function that erases all data and personal information at trade-in time.

“We’re excited to present these four new models in the Sharp Advanced and Essentials Series, which continue to simplify and streamline the user experience with one of the most productive and easy-to-use MFPs in the industry,” said Shane Coffey, Senior Director, Hardware Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We know that users today are often confused or intimidated by network-integrated multifunction printers that offer too many bells and whistles, and these new Sharp color workgroup document systems solve those concerns without sacrificing functionality. Additionally, these systems enable businesses to choose the performance and features they need from either series based on their needs.”

Availability

The new MX-5070N and MX-6070N Advanced Series, along with the new MX-5050N and MX-6050N Essentials Series color document systems are available immediately for purchase via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales.
SHARP ADDS FOUR NEW MODELS TO HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL COLOR ADVANCED AND ESSENTIALS SERIES MFP LINE-UP
8:58 am Comments Off on SHARP ADDS FOUR NEW MODELS TO HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL COLOR ADVANCED AND ESSENTIALS SERIES MFP LINE-UP
MAHWAH, NJ, June 15, 2016

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC), announces four new models in its series of mid-to-high volume color document systems. The addition of these new color Advanced and Essentials series models brings the total number of models in the series to 10, all built on a single-engine platform with an easy-to-use common interface. Each model provides stunning color output with exceptional ease of use. Businesses will also appreciate the common toner supplies across all ten models.

New Color Advanced Series Models: MX-5070N and MX-6070N

The MX-5070N and MX-6070N Advanced Series models offer output speeds of up to 60 ppm in color or monochrome and provide enhanced workflow solutions for busy workgroups and departmental environments. The new models also come equipped with a Sharp walk-up motion sensor that detects a user approaching and brings the machine to ready condition within seconds. The MX-5070N and MX-6070N models can also scan documents at up to 200 images per minute with the standard duplexing single pass feeder. All of the color Advanced Series models include the latest version of Sharp OSA® technology for easy integration with network applications and cloud services. The MX-5070N and MX-6070N models join the MX-3070N, MX-3570N and MX-4070N color Advanced Series models, which launched in December.

New Color Essentials Series Models: MX-5050N and MX-6050N

The MX-5050N and MX-6050N Essentials Series models also offer output speeds up to 60 ppm, but are designed for cost-conscious customers, offering out-of-box multifunction capability at a strong value. For businesses that use both the color Essentials Series and color Advanced Series models, the learning curve is easy since they all use the same interface. The MX-5050N and MX-6050N models join the MX-3050N, MX-3550N and MX-4050N color Essentials Series models that launched earlier this year.

The color Advanced Series and color Essentials Series document systems are designed with users in mind, enabling them to easily set up and execute workflow tasks. Both series are equipped with the next generation Sharp touchscreen display, offering an intuitive graphical interface with Easy Copy and Easy Scan screens, as well as quick access to on-board operation guides. Both model series also support popular mobile technologies, including Apple®, AirPrint®, Mopria™ , Android™ Print Service, Google Cloud Print™ and Sharpdesk® Mobile. Multi-layered security features from Sharp help ensure intellectual property and personal information is protected throughout the life of the device, and includes a standard end-of-lease function that erases all data and personal information at trade-in time.

“We’re excited to present these four new models in the Sharp Advanced and Essentials Series, which continue to simplify and streamline the user experience with one of the most productive and easy-to-use MFPs in the industry,” said Shane Coffey, Senior Director, Hardware Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We know that users today are often confused or intimidated by network-integrated multifunction printers that offer too many bells and whistles, and these new Sharp color workgroup document systems solve those concerns without sacrificing functionality. Additionally, these systems enable businesses to choose the performance and features they need from either series based on their needs.”

Availability

The new MX-5070N and MX-6070N Advanced Series, along with the new MX-5050N and MX-6050N Essentials Series color document systems are available immediately for purchase via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales.
Sharp Launches Pro Series Monochrome Document Systems
8:58 am Comments Off on Sharp Launches Pro Series Monochrome Document Systems
3/9/2016

MAHWAH, NJ – Today, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) announces that the newest additions to the Pro Series lineup, the MX-M1055 and MX-M1205 Monochrome Document Systems, are now shipping. These models continue the Sharp Pro Series legacy of simplifying print-on-demand workflows, saving time and money, and allowing businesses to bring more work in-house with professional results.

The 105 ppm and 120 ppm monochrome models offer the optional MX-PE11 Fiery Print Server running on the latest Fiery FS200 Pro platform, and boast Sharp’s signature 15.4″ (diagonal) touch-screen display that allows full control of Fiery Command WorkStation® at the operation panel of the machine, a capability still unmatched in the industry. The latest version of Fiery Command WorkStation offers new ways to prioritize print production. The new Fiery print server also allows users to easily inspect jobs in the optional Fiery ImageViewer for Black and White, to improve tonality and ensure high image quality.

“Sharp’s Pro Series Monochrome Document Systems help streamline workflow with unsurpassed ease-of-use for CRDs and In-Plant customers,” said Mike Marusic, senior vice president, Marketing, Operations & Services, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We’ve expanded our award-winning series to provide our customers with a wider variety of options to meet all of their printing needs.”

“Based on the latest FS200 Pro system software, the MX-PE11 Fiery Print Server gives in-plants improved personalization, performance capabilities and speed enhancements, as well as the ability to adjust the contrast and brightness of printed output with the optional Fiery ImageViewer for Black and White,” said John Henze, vice president, Fiery marketing, EFI.

Adding to the monochrome systems’ unrivaled ease-of-use is the new paper catalog, which resides on the print engine and allows up to 1,000 paper entries, giving operators ultimate control when handling the specific characteristics of their preferred paper. Bringing together Sharp’s exclusive triple air-feed, large capacity tray option with the comprehensive paper catalog ensures precise paper handling and excellent print results on a wide range of media, including coated, glossy and specialty papers.

With the full-service capabilities of the Pro Series lineup, in-plants can now accelerate their business and benefit from producing customized marketing campaigns using variable data printing formats, including those that use built-in Fiery FreeForm™ software.

Republished with permission from Buyers Laboratory LLC (www.buyerslab.com). ©2016 Buyers Laboratory LLC
Konica Minolta Launches New Light Production Monochrome Print System bizhub® PRO 1100
8:58 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Launches New Light Production Monochrome Print System bizhub® PRO 1100
Ramsey, NJ – February 25th, 2016 – Demonstrating the company’s commitment to developing new technologies that help production printers produce high quality with the flexibility they need, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta) is pleased to announce the bizhub PRO 1100. With a rated output of 100-pages per minute and high performance image capture, the bizhub PRO 1100 meets the needs of central in-house printing facilities, external print-for-pay services and vertical markets including legal, education, and government.

The bizhub PRO 1100 operation panel has been unified with the bizhub color production print machines to improve operability and usability. With this, the bizhub PRO 1100 has many new workflow options including:
- Adoption of Job Centro/Color Centro pairs up job management and work flow with the color production products including job ticketing editing functions for color machines.
- Adoption of controller hot folders.
- Standard dual-color scanner provides high-speed, simultaneous double-sided color scanning up to 180-opm. Image stabilization technology – equipped with the density balance and gamma correction functions providing improved image quality, more stable production of printed materials and also minimizes disparities in quality between different machines.
- New additional options help to boost operability while reducing initial introduction costs.
- Expansion options for solution applications.
Sustainability

bizhub PRO 1100 meets a Gold level rating in Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT), an environmental assessment system. It has also cleared standard Typical Energy Consumption values for Version 2.0 of the International Energy Star Program by a substantial margin.

“The affordable and powerful bizhub PRO 1100 offers smart features, excellent productivity, durability, halftone quality with the flexibility our customers need,” says Kevin Kern, senior vice president, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. “With a wide range of workflow and finishing options the bizhub PRO 1100 is well suited to meet the needs of in house print facilities, specialized vertical market applications and print for pay markets.”
Konica Minolta Brings New Functionality to Mobile through EveryonePrint Version 4.0
8:58 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Brings New Functionality to Mobile through EveryonePrint Version 4.0
Ramsey, NJ – March 3, 2016 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc., (Konica Minolta) is excited to announce the offering of the next major upgrade of the EveryonePrint (EOP) mobile print software solution, version 4.0. The solution provides organizations of all sizes — including universities, educational institutions and corporations worldwide — the ability to print from their notebooks or mobile devices with ease. In addition, a bEST certified App is available for secure release of print jobs from any bizhub® control panel.

Easy to install and operate with full IT Administrator control, EOP has BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) compatibility, secure private cloud/on-premise mobile printing, and simple licensing with unlimited mobile device users. 4.0 is the only enterprise mobile print solution with the ability to install on Linux Enterprise and IBM System z mainframes.

The fourth generation software develops and expands on the usability, high security and functionality associated with EveryonePrint. It includes significant new features and server clustering for high availability and integration with leading EMM/MDM solutions (Enterprise Mobility Management/Mobile Device Management) as well as new and improved apps for iOS, Android and Windows Phone 8. Compatible with any printing infrastructure, EOP offers five different ways to print, including: e-mail, web, driver, Android and AirPrint for native printing from mobile devices.

New features and enhancements in version 4.0 include:
- Expanded capabilities to have highly available and highly scalable services, with new clustering and load balancing features — no upper limit on user or printer numbers
- Supports three of the leading MDM solutions; AirWatch, Good Technology and MobileIron
- Support for printing from Windows phone devices using a newly developed specialized App
- Redesigned and improved Apple iOS and Android Apps
“Mobility is driving the need to provide secure mobile printing solutions that are compatible with BYOD policies and are easy to use and manage,” says Kevin Kern, senior vice president, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions, U.S.A., Inc. “From day to day ease of use with features and flexibility to print in a secure Wi-Fi based set-up, 4.0 reduces costs of daily system administration for our customers.”
Sharp Continues Introduction of New Mid-Volume Color Workgroup Document Systems
8:58 am Comments Off on Sharp Continues Introduction of New Mid-Volume Color Workgroup Document Systems
MAHWAH, NJ- 1/29/2016
Today, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, announced three more models in a new series of color workgroup document systems, which will grow to 10 models by the second quarter of 2016, all built on a single engine platform.

The MX-3050N, MX-3550N and MX-4050N color Essentials Series document systems are designed for cost-conscious customers, offering full multifunction capability at a strong value. The new models provide out-of-box copying, network scanning and network printing at speeds of 30ppm, 35ppm and 40ppm, respectively.

This past December, Sharp announced the MX-3070N, MX-3570N and MX-4070N color Advanced Series document systems, which are available in the same speeds as the color Essentials Series, but are designed for workflow-intensive environments and offer businesses more solution-centric features.

The color Essentials Series and color Advanced Series document systems are both designed with users in mind, enabling them to easily set up and execute their workflow tasks. These models are all equipped with Sharp’s next-generation touchscreen display, offering businesses an intuitive graphical interface with Easy Copy and Easy Scan screens, as well as quick access to an integrated on-board operation guide. These models also come equipped with Sharp’s multi-layered security features, which can help ensure the customers’ intellectual property and personal information are protected on the device from the first day of operation to the time of trade-in.

The color Essentials Series and color Advanced Series are built on a clean sheet, single-engine design, empowering businesses of every size to choose the performance and features they need, while taking advantage of the learning curve of a common interface. Businesses will also appreciate the common toner supplies on all of these models.

“The new Essentials Series and Advanced Series family of color document system products have been designed to help businesses streamline their office workflow while providing an intuitive user experience, flexible integration and enhanced productivity,” said Shane Coffey, Senior Director, Hardware Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We are excited to introduce the new color Essentials Series, which now joins the color Advanced Series, offering businesses greater flexibility in balancing their needs within budget requirements.”

Availability
The new MX-3050N, MX-3550N and MX-4050N Essentials Series color document systems are available immediately for purchase via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales.

Republished with permission from Buyers Laboratory LLC (www.buyerslab.com). ©2016 Buyers Laboratory LLC
Lexmark Announces Launch of Next-gen A4 Color Lasers and MFPs
8:58 am Comments Off on Lexmark Announces Launch of Next-gen A4 Color Lasers and MFPs
USA- Jan. 26, 2016 – Lexmark International, Inc., a global technology leader, today announced the launch of next generation A4 color lasers and smart MFPs featuring seven new models.

“The”A4 color MFP’s continue to represent a very strong segment for worldwide MFP activity, with a high 10.5 percent growth rate expected throughout the forecast period,” said Amy Machado, Research Manager, Worldwide Hardcopy Peripherals Format Forecast, Q3 2015.1
- Many of the new color laser devices deliver highest toner capacities in their class and industry-leading long life imaging components, resulting in fewer user interventions and Lexmark’s best-ever color TCO (total cost of ownership). Driven by a powerful quad core processor, these models boast the fastest print and copy speeds available in their respective A4 classes.
- The models featured in the new line include: Lexmark CS700 Series Printers, Lexmark CX700 Series MFPs, Lexmark CS800 Series Printers and CX800 Series MFPs.
- Lexmark’s champion offering, the CX860, offers the highest toner capacity, the largest input/output capacity and the most flexible media support of any A4 color laser MFP. The CX860 is so advanced it rivals the capabilities of A3 products, allowing businesses to bring color production in-house.
- Each new device is enabled with Kofax TotalAgility enhancing the omnichannel capture strategy and helping businesses become more efficient.
- With a new tablet-like touchscreen interface and flexible media handling, these products are easy to use, require minimal training and enable future integration of business process solutions, including Kofax Onboarding Agility™, also announced today.
- Kofax Onboarding Agility is a smart process application solution framework that dramatically reduces process complexity and shortens processing time to improve the onboarding experience for new customers.
It’s more than our brightest, sharpest, most accurate printing ever. Lexmark’s new generation of workgroup color printers and MFPs support industry-specific solutions, while bringing you new ways of saving toner, paper, packaging, energy, and steps. They can even save the day when you’re on a roll and can’t afford downtime. For full details visit http://www.lexmark.com
SHARP ANNOUNCES NEW LINE OF MID TO HIGH-VOLUME COLOR WORKGROUP DOCUMENT SYSTEMS
8:58 am Comments Off on SHARP ANNOUNCES NEW LINE OF MID TO HIGH-VOLUME COLOR WORKGROUP DOCUMENT SYSTEMS
MAHWAH, NJ-December 04,2015

Today, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, announces a new series of 10 mid-to-high-volume color document systems offered in two distinct varieties, the Advanced Series and Essentials Series. Built on a clean sheet, single-engine design, this new family of color MFPs empowers businesses of every size to choose the performance and features they need, while taking advantage of the learning curve of a common interface. Businesses will also appreciate the common toner supplies on all ten models. Designed to provide users with a seamless, intuitive experience for every price point, the latest color MFP models give businesses the confidence in knowing their jobs will come out right the first time, every time.

Color Advanced Series: MX-3070N, MX-3570N, MX-4070N, MX-5070N, and MX-6070N

The MX-3070N, MX-3570N, MX-4070N, MX-5070N and MX-6070N models offer speeds of 30ppm, 35ppm, 40ppm, 50ppm and 60ppm respectively and are packed with easy-to-use, innovative features to help businesses manage their workflow more efficiently. Built on the platform of Sharp’s latest technology, these models also offer many productivity enhancements, such as high speed scanning up to 200 images per minute and a walk-up motion sensor that brings the machine to ready condition within 10 seconds.

The color Advanced Series is designed with users in mind, enabling them to easily set up and execute their workflow tasks. These models are equipped with Sharp’s next-generation touchscreen display, offering businesses an intuitive graphical interface with Easy Copy and Easy Scan screens, as well as quick access to an integrated on-board operation guide. The color Advanced Series leverages the latest version of Sharp OSA® technology for easy integration with network applications and cloud services, as well as advanced capabilities to help businesses better manage their workflow.

These models also come equipped with Sharp’s multi-layered security features, which can help ensure the customers’ intellectual property and personal information is protected from the first day of operation to the time of trade-in.

Color Essential Series: MX-3050N, MX-3550N, MX-4050N, MX-5050N and MX-6050N

Built on the same engine platform as the color Advanced Series, the color Essentials Series document systems are designed for cost conscious customers, offering full multifunction capability at a strong value. The MX-3050N, MX-3550N, MX-4050N, MX-5050N, and MX-6050N offer out-of-box copying, network printing and network scanning at speeds of 30ppm, 35ppm, 40ppm, 50ppm and 60ppm respectively.

“This new family of color MFP products has been designed to help businesses streamline their office workflow while providing an intuitive user experience, flexible integration and enhanced productivity,” said Shane Coffey, Senior Director, Hardware Product Management, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Offering both a color Advanced Series and a color Essentials Series product line allows businesses greater flexibility in balancing their needs within budget requirements.”

Availability

The new MX-3070N, MX-3570N and MX-4070N Advanced Series color document systems are available immediately for purchase via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales. The MX-3050N, MX-3550N and MX4050N Essentials Series color document systems will be available in the first quarter of 2016. The MX-5070N and MX-6070N Advanced Series color document systems, and the MX-5050N and MX-5060N Essentials Series color document systems will be available in the second quarter of 2016.
Konica Minolta Unveils the KM-1, a 29.5-inch Cut-sheet UV Inkjet Press to Be Launched in Spring 2016, at IGAS 2015
8:58 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Unveils the KM-1, a 29.5-inch Cut-sheet UV Inkjet Press to Be Launched in Spring 2016, at IGAS 2015
Tokyo (September 3, 2015) – Konica Minolta, Inc. (Konica Minolta) and Konica Minolta Business Solutions Japan Co., Ltd. (Konica Minolta BJ), Konica Minolta’s domestic sales company for its Business Technologies Business, will showcase the KM-1, a 29.5-inch cut-sheet UV inkjet press to be launched in the spring of 2016, at IGAS 2015, Japan’s largest international show of printing machinery and materials held at Tokyo Big Sight from September 11 to 16, 2015.

Background to and purpose of development

Today, a shift from analog to digital printing is rapidly underway in the commercial print market due to a growing demand for high-mix low-volume production, shorter production time, one-to-one marketing*1 and variable printing*2.

Konica Minolta has two key plateless printing technologies; namely, inkjet, and electronic photography technologies. Since 1999, Konica Minolta has been developing digital printing systems for users in the commercial print field, leveraging its prowess in electronic photography technologies. Konica Minolta’s KM-1, a B2 cut-sheet inkjet press presented as a technology showcase at drupa 2012 – one of the biggest international printing shows in the world – garnered high praise, especially for its image reproduction quality and its ability to print on a wide variety of paper media. In IGAS 2015, Konica Minolta will show to the public the market-ready version of the KM-1, which is to be launched in the spring of 2016.

Major features of the KM-1

The KM-1 is a UV inkjet press co-developed by Konica Minolta and KOMORI Corporation*3.

Outstanding image quality comparable to that of a sheet-fed offset press

The KM-1 can cover the entire process of creation of a wide range of printed products with its outstanding reproducibility of sharp-edged, high density images and characters.

Consistency in color reproduction quality

Even after continuous long-time use, the KM-1 can produce prints of consistent density and color tone, thus ensuring high print quality at all times.

Ability to print on a wide variety of paper media

The KM-1 can handle paper of different thicknesses, ranging from thin tissue paper to packaging paper. The KM-1 can also print, without the necessity of pre-coating, on rough paper, Japanese paper, and other types of paper that are difficult to print using a conventional press.

Ability to accommodate paper up to 23 x 29.5 inches in size, larger than B2

With the ability to print on a sheet of paper slightly larger in size than B2, the KM-1 offers greater efficiency and versatility in the imposition process. For example, users can lay six pages out on a sheet of paper and print them to make double gatefold brochures or letterhead sheets.

Main specifications
- Max. paper size 585 x 750 mm (23 x 29.5 inches)
- Print resolution 1,200 x 1,200 dpi
- Print speed 3,000 sph (single side), 1,500 sph (both sides)
- Printable paper Printing paper (coated paper, non-coated paper, special paper)
- Pre-coating is not necessary.
- Paper thickness 0.06‒0.6 mm (single side), 0.06‒0.45 mm (both sides)
- Printhead Shear mode piezo printhead of Konica Minolta’s proprietary development
- Ink Four-color (YMCK) UV ink of Konica Minolta’s proprietary development for exclusive use
Living up to the brand proposition, “Giving Shape to Ideas,” Konica Minolta remains committed to helping customers enhance their corporate value by offering higher-quality products and services from customers’ perspectives, in response to the ever-diversifying printing needs in the commercial print market.
Konica Minolta Releases Watkiss PowerSquare 224 for Combined Book-Making Process
8:58 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Releases Watkiss PowerSquare 224 for Combined Book-Making Process
Ramsey, NJ – August 10, 2015 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud services, announced today its release of the Watkiss PowerSquare 224, a complete book-making system for digital print applications, for its monochrome bizhub PRESS products.

In a single machine, the PowerSquare combines the four processes of stitching, folding, spine forming and trimming to produce SquareBack books up to 224 pages thick. The maximum book thickness, of 10.4mm, is double that of alternative conventional booklet making machines, so it is ideally suited to higher paginations or to thicker stocks. This makes the Watkiss PowerSquare 224 a fast and cost-effective alternative to perfect binding or tape binding. It features fully automatic settings for different book size and pagination, including variable stitch-leg length for varying book thickness. The PowerSquare supports booklets of various types and sizes for:
- SquareBack Books
- Thin Books
- Manuals
- Catalogs
- Brochures and Pamphlets
- Magazines
- Reports
Generally intended for mid- and high-production environments, the PowerSquare is easy to use. Simply enter the job parameters into the touch-screen and press ‘Start.’ To make repeat jobs easier still, you can save the settings — each with a unique name — for instant recall when required. The PowerSquare requires a small floor space. When operating with online connection to your printer, its ergonomic layout delivers finished books close to the normal operator position, saving time and reducing operator fatigue.

“Konica Minolta continually looks to bring solutions to our customers that increase the value of their output and expand their market opportunities,” says Kevin P. Kern, senior vice president, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. “Only the PowerSquare 224 can offer added value by producing a sharper, higher quality finished product.”
Konica Minolta Targets Small and Mid-Sized Offices with Cost Efficient bizhubs
8:58 am Comments Off on Konica Minolta Targets Small and Mid-Sized Offices with Cost Efficient bizhubs
Ramsey, NJ – Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), a leader in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud services, announced today the launch of four new multi-function products (MFPs) intended for small and mid-sized offices and departmental use. These new products, which include the bizhub 287, bizhub 227, bizhub C368, and bizhub C308, can easily adapt to tackle diverse work styles, including standard web browser and Open API support to connect to specialized applications and easy access to mobile connectivity.

The featured mobile connectivity supports a wide range of devices, including smartphones and tablets that are NFC (Near Field Communication) capable. Konica Minolta’s award-winning INFO-Palette control panel design rounds out the package for a unified user experience across our office product line.

bizhub 287 & bizhub 227

Both of these monochrome MFPs are exceptionally cost efficient, bridging the gap between Compact (A4) MFPs and traditional mid-volume office MFPs. The bizhub 287, a 28 ppm machine, and the bizhub 227, which runs at 22 ppm, have many eco-friendly attributes that differentiate them from other products. These features include:
- Low energy consumption
- Use of recycled materials in the manufacturing of the machine
- Energy Star and EPEAT certifications
bizhub C368 & bizhub C308

The robust feature set and outstanding color output quality of these new color MFPs are only the beginning of the story. The new bizhub C368, a 36 ppm machine, and the bizhub C308, a 30 ppm machine, offer innovative solutions to address a wide range of customer needs. Newly added functions include a mobile connectivity area built into the control panel, detachable universal trays and a hard disk mirroring option. The C368 and C308 also feature:
- Standard web browser
- Open API
- 9” control panel featuring a mobile touch area with support for NFC (Near Field Communication)
- Optional Fiery controller
“With today’s new product launches, Konica Minolta continues its legacy of developing great products and offering a new level of efficiency and flexibility,” says Kevin P. Kern, senior vice president, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. “Konica Minolta continues to demonstrate its commitment to provide new tools that will empower our clients and optimize their workflow, the implementation of our next generation system architecture with standard browser functionality.”

Republished with permission from Buyers Laboratory LLC (www.buyerslab.com). ©2013 Buyers Laboratory LLC
How Does Scanning Improve Workflows?
May 1, 2002 2:20 am Leave a Comment
By now, you’ve probably heard all about scanning–how quick and easy it is, how it helps businesses go paperless, and how it can even boost security. But did you know that scanning can also improve your workflows? Read on to find out how!

Scanning and Streamlining

If you still have paper-based workflows–which, in reality, many businesses do–then you know how frustrating it can be when all your communication is anchored to stacks and stacks of documents. Paper files aren’t just expensive; they’re also frustrating, unreliable, and difficult to secure. They drag your workflows down only by taking so much time to get from Point A to Point B.

Luckily, that’s where scanning comes in.

By taking those physical files and turning them into digital documents, you free up your workflows almost immediately. Imagine your teams being able to communicate proposals, update projects, or share ideas at the click of a button. Imagine forgetting an important file at a meeting and being able to pull it up on your mobile device. Imagine workflows as streamlined and straightforward as you’ve always wanted them to be–and that’s what scanning can do for you.

Sound too good to be true? Here are just a few ways scanning helps improve workflows.

Cloud communication

Scanned documents can be stored in one collective receptacle, meaning that everyone with access can see, share, and save anything they need.

Security

It’s easier to create passwords, set up firewalls, and work on user authentication than it is to lock down file cabinets! Scanned documents are a breeze to protect–as long as you have the right tools and solutions, of course.

Searches

Tired of thumbing through file cabinets? When you scan all those paper files, you’ll be able to search for them by title, keyword, date, and more–meaning your workflows won’t have to suffer from “lost document syndrome.”

Are you looking for a fast, easy way to improve your workflows? Contact us today to learn more about scanning!