By Mukesh Bector
Cloud computing has revolutionized the way businesses operate, and its impact has extended to the print industry as well. Cloud printing solutions have emerged as a game-changer, transforming traditional printing processes and offering a host of benefits to businesses and individuals alike. Statistics show that cloud-first organisations now outnumber on-premise organisations by a ratio of three-to-one. The cloud-based printing market is likewise steadily growing, with a whopping 73% of organisations looking to increase their use of cloud-based printing services over the next few years.
Revolutionising the Print Industry
Cloud printing solutions have revolutionized the print industry, bringing about a paradigm shift in the way businesses and individuals approach printing tasks. Here are some key ways in which cloud printing solutions are transforming the industry:
Cloud printing liberates users from the limitations of being tied to a specific physical printer. Users can now print documents from any device, such as laptops, smartphones, or tablets, regardless of their location. This newfound mobility and flexibility greatly enhance productivity and enable seamless collaboration in today’s dynamic work environments. For instance, Epson has launched Epson Remote Services (ERS) – a remote monitoring service tool designed for Epson dealers managing multiple printer fleets.
The software solution is designed to assist dealers managing a fleet of business inkjet printers achieve higher first-fix rates, reduce on-site service requirements and minimise device downtime. The remote monitoring solution makes it easy to manage and maintain networked Epson devices. It enables dealers to remotely access and locate devices that require attention via an encrypted customized data collection agent and convenient device dashboard.
With cloud printing solutions, documents are securely stored and transmitted through encrypted connections. This ensures that sensitive information remains protected, mitigating the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches. Cloud printing platforms also provide granular access controls, allowing administrators to manage user permissions and enforce printing policies.
Improved Sustainability
The print industry has long been associated with significant paper waste and environmental impact. Cloud printing solutions enable businesses to adopt more sustainable practices by promoting digital workflows, reducing unnecessary printing, and facilitating electronic document storage. By minimizing paper usage, cloud printing contributes to environmental conservation efforts and supports corporate sustainability initiatives.
Future Looks Bright
The trajectory of cloud printing solutions suggests a promising future for the print industry. Here are some key areas that will shape the future of cloud printing:
Cloud printing solutions will continue to leverage AI and machine learning algorithms to analyze print data and provide actionable insights. These insights will enable businesses to optimize printing processes, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency through predictive maintenance, print job analytics, and intelligent print queue management.
The integration of IoT devices with cloud printing solutions will enable smarter and more connected printing ecosystems. IoT-enabled printers will communicate directly with cloud platforms, facilitating remote monitoring, automatic supply replenishment, and proactive maintenance, thereby improving uptime and productivity.
Cloud printing solutions will integrate seamlessly with workflow systems and productivity tools, such as project management platforms, document management systems, and collaboration software. This integration will enable streamlined document handling, automated printing workflows, and enhanced collaboration capabilities, further optimizing productivity and efficiency.
Cloud printing solutions will extend their capabilities to encompass 3D printing, enabling businesses and individuals to access cloud-based 3D printing services. This expansion will democratize 3D printing, making it more accessible, cost-effective, and scalable for a wide range of applications, from prototyping to customized manufacturing.
There is no gainsaying that Cloud printing solutions have emerged as a disruptive force, reshaping the print industry and offering a host of benefits to businesses and individuals. By leveraging the power of cloud computing, mobility, security, cost optimization, and sustainability have taken center stage in the print ecosystem. As technology continues to evolve, the future of cloud printing solutions holds immense potential, with advanced analytics, IoT integration, and expansion into 3D printing, further propelling the industry towards a digital, connected, and efficient future.
The author is Epson Regional Head, East and West Africa.