Print in the Channel - #39

CLOUD PRINT MANAGEMENT

hybrid deployment options, strong security, secure print release, identity management integration, analytics and reporting, remote fleet management, mobile and home-worker support, and workflow automation capabilities. “It should also integrate with wider document capture, collaboration and cloud storage platforms, while providing a clear route for future AI-enabled workflow and document-processing capabilities,” he adds. As take-up of cloud print management solutions is expected to continue to grow, there are plenty of opportunities for resellers in the coming years in this space. n

self-hosted on-premise, in a private cloud, or by a partner. PaperCut MF has been developed to adapt to the hosting model that best suits customers, even though it is well-known for being an on-prem print management solution. “Furthermore, our Unified Subscription model enables end users to move between PaperCut MF-Subscription and PaperCut Hive without any cost implication. This means that end users don't need to worry about making investments into an on-prem solution now, when they'll want to make the transition to SaaS in a few years.” Louella says an effective solution should combine serverless or

Ease of use is vital for SMBs because they need their time to be invested in running their business, and not having that slowed or hindered

by obstructive or outdated IT solutions.

Cloud print for labelling It is a similar picture for SMBs that use cloud labelling management software, as Paul Vogt, vice president of global channel sales at Loftware, explains. “SMBs adopt cloud-based, online labelling software faster than bigger businesses because it deals with all the nightmares of purchasing and maintaining traditional business labelling software.” Paul adds that SMBs also choose cloud labelling because they don’t have a large IT team and so need their software to be managed by vendors. “They can also log in from anywhere, at any time, using any PC, without a license key – in the office, remotely, on the production floor, in the warehouse,” he says. “Also, software is kept up to date automatically with the latest GS1 and other standards.” However, some SMBs still perceive cloud labelling software printing as difficult because they must manage change. “Concerns often include integration with legacy systems, upfront investment, and potential downtime during transition,” says Paul. “Security is also frequently cited, particularly when organisations move from familiar on-premise environments to cloud-based infrastructure. In hybrid settings, there is an added challenge of maintaining consistent user experiences across locations. “In many cases, these concerns stem from a lack of visibility into how cloud solutions actually operate.” Resellers play a key role in helping SMBs move past perceived risks by reframing cloud labelling

software as a strategic improvement rather than a technical disruption, Paul says. “This starts with demonstrating how centralised, cloud-based solutions reduce complexity over time, rather than adding to it,” he adds. “Successful partners focus on practical adoption strategies, including phased implementations, clear integration paths and measurable business outcomes. By showing how cloud solutions align with existing systems and workflows, resellers can build confidence and accelerate decision making. “There is also a clear services opportunity. Partners can deliver long-term value through onboarding, optimisation, and ongoing management, positioning themselves as trusted advisors rather than one-time providers.” Paul recommends channel partners design the blueprint for their customers, who then scale it up across the business. “That’s what cloud labelling software make so effective,” he says. “Central control is essential, giving organisations a single point of oversight across devices, users and locations. Channel partners that set up controls make for an excellent customer experience. “Integration is equally important. Channel partners have the excellent opportunity to sell professional services that map dynamic data from business systems onto labels for seamless, accurate and fast print.” n

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