Like all industries, today’s players in the power and utility sector are experiencing the disruptive forces fanned by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, changes in load patterns and rising costs, changes in regulatory issues, stress on a cleaner environment, and innovative technologies. As utilities continue to move towards cleaner emissions, a decentralized operation, and new capabilities, they are transforming their working environments through digital innovation.

While more powerful computing abilities are allowing utilities to explore artificial intelligence (AI), the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, augmented and virtual reality, and cloud computing, one cost-effective catalyst for increasing the speed of digital transformation remains simple — print management. 

Deploying a Print Management Strategy to Foster Transformation 

While it might be exciting to consider AI or machine learning technologies to boost performance and productivity at your utility, it is possible to achieve a level of transformation using simple to adopt technologies such as print management. Managed print strategies are not only cost-effective, but they also help move employees to a more digital environment without the associated frustration new technologies often present. 

Increasing Job Satisfaction 

Lowered frustration with new technologies can help your workforce embrace a digital culture. Not only can this have positive repercussions on employee retention and improved productivity, but it can also result in a better experience for your customers. Print management software is simple to deploy and easy to use, reducing the learning curve often associated with new technology adoption and helping to ensure your digital objectives will continue to be met. In fact, one of the primary reasons digital transformations fail is that companies prioritize deploying technology over emphasizing user adoption. Beginning with simple-to-use technologies such as print management can help utilities improve digital capabilities without frustrating your workforce. 

Better Security and Cost Control

A print management system can provide better visibility in two important ways. First, it provides a transparent look at your overall printing costs and spending, allowing you to drill down to discover where costs are necessary — and where there is waste, allowing you to put controls into place to cut costs and reduce wasteful practices. Then, a robust managed print strategy will provide built-in monitoring and tracking to help prevent data theft and loss and add an additional layer of security protect your utility from potential data breaches. 

Longer Asset Lifetime

To provide a greater return on your investment in a fleet of printers, you must focus on lowering labor and equipment costs, improving system efficiency, and focusing on reliability for reduced downtime. With managed print, you have these qualities built into the service for one reliable monthly cost. Everything you require to keep your printer fleet operating at top efficiency is included in your partnership with your managed service provider — from routine maintenance to troubleshooting and repairs. When your equipment is maintained properly, its life is extended, allowing you to gain additional lifetime value from your fleet. 

Importantly, most managed print services also include an automated supply replenishment program that monitors ink and toner levels remotely and automatically sends the correct supplies for each printer — exactly when they are needed. This feature helps to reduce machine downtime due to lack of supplies, eliminate overbuying of supplies — or overpaying for them — and remove the need to use valuable floorspace to store excess inventory. 

Blue Technologies — A Managed Print Partner You Can Trust

When working with business partners, it is important to choose a provider you can trust. At Blue Technologies, we have a multilayered commitment to excellence. Not only do we guarantee the performance of our products and the skill of our repair and maintenance team, but we also strive for an unparalleled level of customer service and satisfaction. 

Our managed print professionals can help your utility get the most out of a print management solution. Our strategies are holistic, including device administration, document security, and cost recovery for a three-pronged transformation of your print environment. In addition, we provide a single point of contact to make using — and optimizing — your system simple and hassle-free. 

Ready to help your utility transform with simple, cost-effective print management? Contact a Blue Technologies consultant to get started today.