MFPs FOR HYBRID WORKERS
CONTINUED
Future Deyon agrees that demand for MFPs is likely to continue growing as hybrid work is now the norm. He adds that there should be innovations to come in the market too. “This may include improved cloud integration, enhanced security and support more business solutions,” he says. Meanwhile, Peter says that at Kyocera they think that demand for MFPs for hybrid workers where face to face meetings are still key to business will remain high. “However, in business or public sector organisations where MFPs are remotely connected to the network, device security is a must. “At Kyocera we have migrated our highest level of device security, ‘K-Level Security’ from our high-end business machines into our ECOSYS range of consumer devices. We have also added work from home functionality including ‘Default Printer Confirmation’ reducing the risk of printing confidential documents on the office printer when working from home.And to answer customers environmental concerns we plan to make all new products ‘carbon neutral’.” Kerry adds that she expects demand to increase, especially with the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). “No one is totally sure what the picture with AI looks like but it’s an exciting one,” she says. “We are already seeing devices with inbuilt AI features, such as scanning, so who knows where technological innovations will take us.”
need for separate machines. They are also mobile-friendly as it can enable printing and scanning via mobile devices.” Peter agrees that the reliability, functionality and print quality delivered by laser print technology MFPs should be emphasised. “They also need to concentrate on endpoint security, low energy usage and the benefits of very low running costs,” he adds. “Add Kyocera’s environmental credentials and carbon neutral initiatives for an easy sell. What’s more when teamed with Kyocera Cloud Print & Scan organisations have a view on remote users’ activity enabling them to control print costs and behaviours if required.” Kerry adds that resellers should focus on key features such as the natively embedded Microsoft Teams connector, which can be found on Sharp devices. “This feature allows users to scan to or print from their Teams folders with no computer,” she says. “Resellers should also home in on security, as it’s critical we ensure the right documents go to the right locations and that physical prints don’t end up in the wrong hands. “Network and endpoint security is also a critical discussion to have. Breaches through networked and internet-enabled MFPs are increasing as new vulnerabilities are exploited. This is often because MFPs are not considered as ‘obvious’ endpoints. In home offices, networked printers can be highly vulnerable due to variances in security practices, firmware updates, and individual home network security. “Resellers need to stress the importance of securing MFPs when extending availability to hybrid workers.”
Kerry Rush product marketing manager
sharp.co.uk
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Resellers should also home in on security, as it’s critical we ensure the right documents go to the right locations and that physical prints don’t end up in the wrong hands.
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