Print in the Channel - issue #13

CONFIDENTIAL SCANNING

Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) act is increasing scrutiny around firms’ security measures. “We’re seeing this reflected in more demand for digital scanning and signing solutions for secure document management,” he says. “We’ve seen the market for PDF editing solutions, like Tungsten automation’s (formerly Kofax) PowerPDF, increase 9% year-on-year, as firms look to reduce costs and improve digital workflow and collaboration. Cloud services offer automatic audit trails to track documents and implementing e-signature software like Tungsten automation’s SignDoc helps avoid complications around security and compliance. “Customers across the board still need scanning and we’re seeing IT decision makers turn to better connected desktop scanners that can support remote workers and the rising demand for automation. In most cases they’re approaching resellers to help them find the right solutions. “The result is vendors making it easier for resellers to offer these solutions and expand their portfolio. They’re making hardware more compatible and refining software by teaming up with partners like Tungsten automation This makes the end-to-end experience smoother for users, boosting productivity by removing cumbersome, manual document storage processes, while ensuring sensitive information or data is always stored consistently and compliantly. “We’ll see greater document digitisation as firms work towards total workflow automation. Hardware is the input and output, but we need to view the entire solution as a holistic process. To deliver productivity gains, each step in the automation process needs to be connected, secure and easy to use.”

vulnerable to cyberattacks,” Richard adds. “Therefore, when it comes to signing and scanning sensitive material, businesses must ensure that they implement a robust security system and maintain cyber hygiene. “Outdated legacy systems pose serious threats to confidential information as they’re not compatible with modern security software and more customers are starting to notice this. By providing businesses with reliable devices, complete with built-in security features, resellers can inspire a 360-degree approach to confidential document scanning. “Canon’s agile solutions such as IRISPowerscan help teams access, work with, collaborate and share information, enabling optimal employee productivity while maintaining data security and IT visibility and control. Canon imageFORMULA scanners also offer built-in CaptureOnTouch software, which allows businesses to scan directly to cloud platforms and other secure folders, helping to simplify and streamline document lifecycles. “As more businesses prioritise information security in 2024, we will see more manufacturers and vendors offer devices and software with guaranteed security features. To stand out from the crowd, resellers should look to emphasise benefits such as flexibility and accessibility, which will continue to be high on the agenda in a hybrid working world.”

Andy Johnson SMB and solutions business development manager

brother.co.uk

To stand out from the crowd, resellers should look to emphasise benefits such as flexibility and accessibility. “ ”

Reseller conversations Resellers should also emphasise the

advantages of secure scanning technologies in the context of digital transformation and hybrid work environments, Kevin says. “These include improved efficiency, faster workflows, cost savings, enhanced data accuracy, and, importantly, robust data security features such as various authentication methods,” he adds. “Resellers would also find it beneficial to emphasise the specific benefits in security and compliance. Customers will appreciate the reassurance that their data is shielded from potential breaches, and the alleviation of regulatory compliance headaches adds a compelling layer of assurance for them.” Kevin adds that in 2024 the popularity of secure document processing technologies is anticipated to grow. “The growth is also driven by continuous shift to remote and hybrid work,” he says. “This demand will likely be further supported by government initiatives such as the UK’s ‘Cloud First’ strategy, especially in the public sector.”

Staying protected Richard Stewart, workspace portfolio

marketing manager at Canon UK, adds that it is imperative that secure document processes and technology keep pace with the ever- evolving demands of the business world. “With the continuation of hybrid working, cybersecurity has never been more important, particularly when it comes to print and scan workflows,” he says. He points to research published in the Quocirca Print Security Landscape, 2023, which found that 27% of IT security incidents are related to paper documents. “The high-level of traffic involved in the scanning process makes it particularly

Richard Stewart workspace portfolio marketing manager

canon.co.uk

printinthechannel.co.uk

31

Powered by