The dynamic nature of the modern workplace requires professionals to be on the move. The need to collaborate and share business data effectively is one of the most important reasons for the transition from a paper-based system to a digital workflow solution. As a result, the demand for an accessible, reliable and secure document infrastructure has never been more relevant today.
The advancement in technology has made it possible to create business workflow solutions that enable documents to be captured, stored, managed and shared in a secured environment. By using advanced integrated software platforms, many businesses are beginning to see the true power of MFPs as a tool to close the paper-digital gap.
Since its inception, MFPs were (still) well known as a robust document production tool that combined the functions of print, copy, scan and fax into one device – a major selling point for many sales people. While these features may not have changed, the world of technology is fast moving in a different direction. Multifunction printers are no longer a one-dimensional device that just print, copy, scan and fax documents. With the aid of integrated business workflow solutions, MFPs are being turned into document hubs.
At a basic level, MFPs enables users to scan documents directly into their Cloud account (Google Drive, DropBox, OneDrive), without using a PC. At an enterprise level, MFPs can connect and route documents across existing enterprise content management (ECM) system.
Consider for instance scanning a patient document at an MFP which automatically routes the information to a doctor for assessment. Better still, a sales account manager can scan and route sales documents from MFPs in a remote office to be stored in a centralised database.
The direct benefits of such a setup are improved staff productivity, quicker access to information and efficient information management. On the other hand, organisations are well-placed to meet stringent regulatory requirements and ensure that their confidential information is protected at all times from unscrupulous hackers.
The role of MFPs in revolutionising the document management industry has only just began, as more and more businesses seek new ways to centralise their operations and manage a leaner fleet of document devices and systems. The renewed interest in MFPs, made bold by a desire to work smarter, is a catalyst for further growth and will most likely contribute to its pervasiveness.
As the competition grows and more integrations of business workflows with MFPs become pervasive, it is only natural to see the cost of implementation drop. This will allow more SMMEs to take advantage of the power of MFPs in a whole new way.
Written and published on behalf of KDS Direct
About KDS Direct
KDS Direct is a subsidiary of the First Quantum Holdings Group of companies, which was established in 1998. They are now a leader in the supply and distribution of KYOCERA products online across South Africa.
KDS Direct is a 51% black woman owned company. This means that customers purchasing directly from the company are able to count these purchases towards their own scorecards under the revised BEE codes, which requires 40% of all purchases to be made from 51% or more black owned businesses.
Bonus points can also be claimed for purchasing from a black woman owned business.
Contact Details
Telephone: 086 099 5181
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.kdsdirect.co.za
Address: 11 Enterprise Close, Linbro Business Park, Sandton