http://www.bta.org/news/default.asp Sat, 18 May 2013 12:22:44 GMT Tue, 14 May 2013 16:04:33 GMT Copyright © 2013 Business Technology Association http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125387 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125387 Ricoh Americas Corp. has introduced two new full-color digital imaging systems for in-plant print centers and print service providers. The RICOH Pro C5100S and RICOH Pro C5110S production imaging systems print and copy up to 65 pages per minute (ppm) and 80 ppm, respectively.

Ideal for helping businesses launch their first production printing programs, the devices blend application flexibility, high productivity and cost-effectiveness in a compact footprint. In addition, both models feature a new toner formulation that increases the printable color gamut by 10 percent compared to Ricoh's other color production printers and has a lower fusing temperature, which means faster warm-up times and lower energy consumption.

The RICOH Pro C5100S and RICOH Pro C5110S are also the first to feature new, enhanced toner transfer technology and elastic fusing-belt technology to deliver higher-quality imaging on heavily textured media. The imaging systems enable customers to save more than 60 attributes to a single Media Library selection to minimize guesswork and enhance productivity.

"Ricoh has integrated proven imaging and paper-handling technologies from the RICOH Pro C651EX/C751EX Series and the recently launched RICOH Pro C901 GA+ to result in an affordable solution that can handle a wide range of printing applications from linen stocks to envelopes," said Tim Vellek, vice president, Production Printing Business Group, Ricoh Americas Corp. "Using advanced configured finishing options, customers can produce finished documents ready for distribution without any manual intervention."

With complete color scanning capability, the systems also serve a key role in business information solutions as hubs for input, processing and output to help companies meet their most important organizational goals. Customers with any Ricoh production printing solution have access to Ricoh's Business Booster Program, which is designed to help customers market their services and drive print volume. They can also take advantage of Ricoh TotalFlow software solutions, designed to help owners seize the full potential of Ricoh's advanced technology for customer satisfaction and profit.

To simplify print management in Windows or Mac environments, the RICOH Pro C5100S and RICOH Pro C5110S offer two controller options, including the value-based Fiery E-22B, or the server-based Fiery E-42B for advanced control typically reserved for high-end devices. Both controllers are running the very latest EFITM FS-100 platform for unparalleled color control and seamless workflow integration.

The RICOH Pro C5100S and RICOH Pro C5110S incorporate a wide range of professional-grade finishing options for stapling, hole punching, saddle stitching, full-bleed booklet finishing and more. For example, customers can insert pre-printed front and back covers, and choose from a wide variety of folding options.

To maximize uptime, the RICOH Pro C5100S and RICOH Pro C5110S make it easy for trained users to quickly replace up to a dozen key imaging units, as well as consumables, without technical assistance, thanks to Trained Customer Replaceable Units (TCRUs). TCRUs empower customers to manage their own service schedules, address key component replacements as they need and reduce reliance on service calls.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 17:04:33 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125382 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125382 Craig Berry, Wentzville, Mo., a regional sales director serving Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas for DocuWare Corp., passed away on Wednesday, May 8, in Dallas. He was 37 years old.

Berry previously served as a professional services account manager at Document & Network Technologies Inc.; production print specialist and analyst at IKON Office Solutions; and systems engineer at Nortel Networks. He had also worked at Savvis and Bridge Information Systems.

Berry is survived by his wife, Christina Berry of Wentzville, Mo.; son, Clayton Berry; son, Collier Berry; daughter, Cailyn Berry; father, Tom Berry of Lake Saint Louis, Mo.; mother, Linda Berry of Wentzville, Mo.; sister, Tommilyn (Kevin) Porter of Dardenne Prairie, Mo.; sister, Amy (Tim) Broemmer of Wentzville, Mo.; mother-in-law, Mickey (Phil) Hardin of Dardenne Prairie, Mo.; father-in-law; Jack Benwell of St. Charles, Mo.; grandmother, Shirley Mosley of Wentzville, Mo.; and many nieces and nephews. He was a member of the Peine Ridge Church, past president of the Wentzville Holt Little League Wrestling Club and co-founder of Daughters of Grace Dance Studio in Wentzville, Mo.

Memorial contributions may be made to the "Berry Children Memorial Fund," care of Pitman Funeral Home, 1545 Wentzville Parkway, Wentzville, Mo., 63385.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 16:55:53 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125379 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125379 On June 17-18, 2013, the Business Technology Association's (BTA) Mid-America district will host Cruise to Success, an educational and networking event at the DoubleTree by Hilton — Magnificent Mile in Chicago. The event will feature a keynote presentation by Doug Albregts, president of Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, four additional educational sessions presented by industry leaders and a dealer panel focused on turning business disruption into opportunity.

Dealers will be able to participate in networking events that will allow them to connect with their peers, including a welcoming reception on June 17, and dinner and a scenic cruise on Lake Michigan aboard the Spirit of Chicago on June 18. In addition, there will be time to visit with 30-plus exhibiting sponsors, many of which will hold drawings for great prizes during the event. Dealer attendees can also enter on site for a chance to win a $500 American Express gift card from BTA Mid-America.

Cruise to Success begins at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 17, with one-on-one vendor/dealer meetings that will be held until 3 p.m. These meetings will give dealers the opportunity to earn $30 for each 15-minute one-on-one meeting attended, up to $210 per dealership. These meetings have been established to provide dealer attendees quality time with select vendors and to help defray travel costs. For more information, visit www.bta.org/15MinMeetings.

At 4 p.m., the event will kick off with opening comments and Albregts' keynote presentation, "The Disappearing Channel." The 2013 BTA Channel's Choice Awards will be presented just prior to Monday evening's welcoming reception, which will be held from 5:30 until 7 p.m. The reception will give attendees time to network with peers and visit with exhibiting sponsors.

Breakfast will begin at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, followed by opening comments, the dealer panel, an educational session and lunch. After lunch, the final educational sessions, closing comments and prize drawings will be held. On Tuesday evening, attendees will enjoy the Lake Michigan dinner cruise.

In addition to the keynote presentation, the Cruise to Success educational sessions will be: "Growing the Business by Building a Strong Team Environment," with Larry Coco of Coco Training & Consulting Inc.; "Cruise to Success or Drown in Legalities," with Bob Goldberg, BTA general counsel; "What is Wrong With All This Talk of Transformation," with Ed McLaughlin of Valderus LLC; and "The Great Mobile Workforce Debate," with Terrie Campbell of Ricoh Americas Corp.

The dealer panel, "Turning Business Disruption into a Welcome Opportunity," will be moderated by David Ramos of Katun Corp. Panelists include John Kuchta, president of SolutionOne, Lincoln, Neb.; Chip Miceli, president of Des Plaines Office Equipment, Elk Grove Village, Ill.; Brian Snow, president of Advanced Business Systems, Tallahassee, Fla.; and Greg Walker, president of East Texas Copy Systems Inc., Tyler, Texas.

BTA General Counsel Bob Goldberg will also be available during the event to provide free legal consultations to BTA members.

A post-event workshop will follow Cruise to Success. On June 19, Mitch Morgan and Chris Ryne of Growth Achievement Partners will present the BTA Managed Services Workshop. Attendees to this post-event workshop will receive free registration to Cruise to Success. For more information, visit www.bta.org/MS.

The exhibiting Cruise to Success sponsors: Crawford Thomas, DataVault, Densi, Digital Gateway, DocuWare, ECi FMAudit, EDA, Esha Corp., ESP Energy Intelligence, Evolved Office, Frontier Imaging (June 18 Lunch Sponsor), Global Printer Services, GreatAmerica Financial Services, Hytec Dealer Services, Image Star, InkCycle, Innovolt (June 18 Breaks Sponsor), Katun, LEAF (June 18 Cruise Co-Sponsor), Memjet, MSE, Muratec, NA Trading and Technology, OKI (June 18 Cruise Co-Sponsor), Parts Now, PNC Equipment Finance, Polek & Polek, Printer Essentials, Smart Power Systems, Square 9, Supplies Network, Toshiba, Universal Laser Systems, West Point Products and Xerox (June 17 Reception Sponsor).

BTA member dealer registration (with dinner cruise) for Cruise to Success is $199, which includes the keynote session, educational sessions, dealer panel, Monday welcoming reception, and Tuesday breakfast and lunch. BTA member dealer registration without a dinner cruise ticket is $169. BTA member dealers who register at $199 receive a second free registration (including the dinner cruise) for one of their dealership’s employees; those who register at $169 will also receive a second free registration (excluding the dinner cruise). Non-member dealer registration with a dinner cruise ticket is $249. Non-member dealer registration without a dinner cruise ticket is $219.

For more information, including full session descriptions, additional pricing information and the registration form for the event, visit www.bta.org/BTAMidAmericaEvent.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 16:48:20 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125343 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125343 BTA member ProSource has announced the acquisition of West Chester, Ohio-based Infitech, an IT managed services provider (MSP) and Continuum partner.

This acquisition jump-starts ProSource's entry into the managed services market and enables ProSource and Infitech to meet the comprehensive office technology and IT service needs of small to medium-sized businesses through a single-source solution. Growth Achievement Partners (GAP) played a role in the business model's development and will assist in the sales and operational integration of the combined companies.

"The rapidly converging office technology and managed services market presents a tremendous opportunity for dealers who understand that gaining first mover advantage means partnering with the right technology provider that can offer advanced software, deep expertise and comprehensive services to drive market entry and accelerate growth," said Brad Cates, president and CEO, ProSource. "Because of their commitment to and success with the Continuum platform, we came to the conclusion that Infitech gives us instant operational capabilities to build on our office technology strengths and become the clear leader in IT managed services serving the tri-state area."

"Continuum has played a vital part in our growth and success to date," said Jeffrey Loeb, president, Infitech. "We are excited to join the ProSource team and help them deliver a single-source solution that simplifies management operations, reduces costs and maximizes productivity for our clients."

To capitalize on the $400-plus billion SMB IT market opportunity, ProSource has also selected Continuum's fully integrated managed services platform to provide outsourced IT software and service delivery.

"Partnering with ProSource and Infitech is a perfect example of how combining the complementary strengths of three growth-oriented companies can lead to an accelerated market leadership position in IT managed services that is the envy of other office dealers," said Michael Amiri, director of office equipment industry, Continuum. "We look forward to helping ProSource and Infitech drive even greater success as newer, non-traditional products and services, such as mobile and cloud-based offerings, contribute more to their overall office technology strategy, revenue and profitability."]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 14:43:22 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125340 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125340 Toshiba America Business Solutions Inc. has introduced its eConnect for Perceptive Software connector.

eConnect allows for the seamless integration of Toshiba's line of e-STUDIO MFPs with Perceptive Content, formerly known as ImageNow. As a result, office employees may now capture and process documents in a safe and secure manner from the front panel of a Toshiba device. Toshiba's eConnect for Perceptive Software extends the capability of the MFP allowing businesses to use a Toshiba e-STUDIO as a capture on-ramp to Perceptive Software anywhere within their facilities.

Toshiba e-STUDIO products connecting to Perceptive Content further simplify an organization's business processes by seamlessly integrating with an array of enterprise resource planning (ERP) applications. Moreover, businesses incorporating a Toshiba e-STUDIO with Perceptive Content enhance the capabilities of the device by permitting employees to singularly or collaboratively manage documents while operating in separate departments or countries.

Users incorporating Toshiba e-STUDIO devices with Perceptive Software further receive peace-of-mind with the understanding their documents are protected by an array of security elements. Perceptive Content integrates such security measures as user authentication and authorization, user activity auditing, data storage protection and encrypted communication to maximize data safety while fulfilling an organization's legal obligations.

"The development of our eConnect, coupled with our partnership with Perceptive Software, dovetails nicely with our managed document solutions strategy while allowing our e-STUDIO users to simplify their workflow," said Joseph Contreras, director of product and solutions marketing, Toshiba America Business Solutions Inc. "Perhaps more important, businesses have the added benefit of knowing their data is virtually secure."

eConnect for Perceptive Software is available now at a manufacturer's suggested retail price is $600 per device.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 14:37:52 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125338 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125338 OKI Data Americas has announced the introduction of the RT322SK direct thermal receipt printer to the company's portfolio of label and point-of-sale (POS) products. The RT322SK has been certified by MAXStick to support its range of liner-free, repositionable thermal labels, and is backed by a one-year advanced overnight exchange warranty.

As a new addition to the reliable RT322 Series, the RT322SK offers advanced features and functionality including 2D barcode printing, "Drop-In & Print" paper loading and high-quality 203-dpi output. Additionally, the RT322SK is enhanced to support the repositionable thermal label supported by MAXStick, which can stick to virtually any surface and is easily removable, leaving behind no residue. The liner-free labels are an alternative to using silicone-lined labels or tape.

The RT322SK is designed for use in the following applications: reserve hold labels, transfer labels, book sale price tags, shipping and receiving, logistic and asset tracking, drive-through services and self-service delis, warehouse management, retail and compliance labeling. Notably, the new liner-free, repositionable label printing devices provide an ideal solution for on-demand printing of food labels in quick service cafés and restaurants.

"The OKI RT322SK is a superior thermal receipt printer that will satisfy market demands for simplicity, flexibility and quality," said Mark Hernandez, director, Specialty Products Division, OKI Data Americas. "Capable of supporting the repositionable, liner-free thermal label solution, these printers are easily integrated into any work environment in need of fast, convenient and efficient label printing. The RT322SK is a noteworthy addition to OKI Data Americas' expanding line of thermal POS printers. As the POS printer market continues to grow, OKI will continue to develop and customize innovative printing solutions to meet our customers' evolving needs."

The RT322SK joins OKI's suite of Label/POS printers — a complete line of products with features designed to improve business performance with fast, high-resolution and high-quality printing.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 14:33:56 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125336 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125336 BTA member Carolina Business Equipment (CBE) has announced that the Small Business Community Association, a national organization of entrepreneurs, has awarded the company a Best of Business Award in recognition of its efforts to promote vibrant business practices and to support its local business community.

As a single-source provider of digital office equipment, systems and solutions, CBE supports other small businesses in South Carolina, from Columbia to Charleston to Florence. CBE also has service operations in Aiken, S.C., and Augusta, Ga.

"We are thrilled that a national organization is recognizing our efforts in the business and beyond," said John Eckstrom, president, CBE. "At CBE, we support businesses of all sizes in providing all their technology needs, from printers to presentations. It gives us a special thrill, though, to help a smaller business or one that is just starting out. We were there once, too."

Over the course of almost 40 years, CBE has grown to numerous locations. Its services have grown right along with it and today it can provide an array of equipment to fit virtually any need, as well as help business develop workflow and document management systems that optimize the investment and improve workplace efficiency. Its technicians have the experience and expertise to train other Sharp technicians throughout the southeast.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 14:27:38 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125334 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=125334 Print Tracker has announced that its clients now have the option to prepare monthly billing from collected meter information.

The Print Tracker 'Dealer's Customer Invoicing' module offers clients the ability to speed the monthly accounting process using gathered volume data. Using the invoicing option, page rates can be set by the dealer and are fully customizable by machine and customer. The module is specifically designed for the dealer who needs the ability to invoice individual customers and would like to enter cost-per-page rates for a machine's black-and-white and color volume.

The invoicing feature is an optional upgrade and can be added to the basic post-sales, or more robust pre-sales, Print Tracker Dealer's License.

This value-add option complements an ever-expanding Print Tracker tool set, providing dealers with another useful feature to assist with account management. Clients who invest in the 'Dealer's Customer Invoicing' module can access invoicing through the 'Reports and Charts' function in the Print Tracker Meter Viewer, similar to how the 'Total Cost of Ownership Estimator' is launched.]]> Tue, 14 May 2013 14:24:03 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124518 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124518 The 65th webinar in BTA's Building My Business Webinar Series is scheduled for 4 p.m. Eastern on Wednesday, May 15. "Eight Simple Rules for Getting the Most Out of Your Sales Force," will be led by Troy Harrison, author of "Sell Like You Mean It!" and president of SalesForce Solutions, a sales training, consulting and recruiting firm.

This webinar is geared at business owners and managers, and covers the eight key components of building a sales force, from a 5,000-foot level. Included are sales planning, hiring, compensation, activity management, relationships and more. Building a world-class sales force involves more than simply "hiring and hoping." Unfortunately, too many business owners give up and go this route. It does not have to be that way. This webinar will include direct takeaways that you can use to help grow your business now and throughout 2013.

BTA members can register on the BTA website by visiting www.bta.org/BuildingMyBusiness. ]]> Tue, 7 May 2013 05:13:00 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124517 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124517 Xerox has appointed Toni Clayton-Hine as vice president of global marketing and value proposition for Xerox's Channel Partner Operations. Clayton-Hine will concentrate on expanding Xerox's channel presence, giving partners competitive and profitable business opportunities with easy access to the company's products and services.

Clayton-Hine joins Xerox from CA Technologies where she served as vice president of global partners marketing. She was responsible for marketing indirect channel programs, driving consistency across the partner experience and demand generation for all indirect routes to market. She has more than 20 years in the technology industry, with expertise in channel sales and marketing, recruitment programs, partner communications and competitive analysis.

"Since creating Xerox's Channel Partner Operations, we've become a stronger indirect sales company, making it simpler for partners to use our brand, services and products," said Douraid Zaghouani, president, Channel Partner Operations, Xerox. "Bringing Toni on board, with her deep understanding of the channel and strong industry following, is another way we can help partners grow with Xerox."

Clayton-Hine will report directly to Zaghouani and will have the global channel partner marketing community under her, including an extended global network across technology. She is co-founder and vice president/managing director for The Institute for Partner Education and Development and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing/communications and entrepreneurial studies from Babson College.]]> Tue, 7 May 2013 05:09:36 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124509 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124509 DEX Imaging has announced the acquisition of South Florida-based U.S. Imaging Solutions and Tampa-based Tonertype LLC. The purchases increase the company revenue to $148 million annually, strengthen the DEX Imaging presence as a leader in the managed print services arena and provide additional cost benefits for their customers.

Tonertype, an office imaging provider servicing accounts from Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Kansas and Arkansas, specializes in office equipment, service and imaging supplies for all major brands nationwide. Tonertype is an authorized reseller for the HP and Lexmark brands, and provides both new and refurbished laser printers, laser MFPs, copiers, plotters and facsimile machines, as well as full customer support.

U.S. Imaging Solutions, an authorized sales and service provider for Canon, HP, Konica Minolta, Lexmark and Muratec, helps organizations assess, develop and implement total output management solutions to secure the most strategic, cost-effective and efficient means of producing document output. The product mix at U.S. Imaging accommodates some of the largest and most complex organizations throughout south Florida.

"We're thrilled to add managed print services to our portfolio of services and save clients on annual costs," said Dan Doyle Jr., president and CEO, DEX Imaging. "At DEX Imaging, we have developed great insight into consumer needs and experiences, and we deliver both solutions and quality products. This acquisition is an important step to broadening that vision."

With plans to reach $250 million in annual revenue by 2016, DEX Imaging is the largest and fastest-growing independent dealers of Konica Minolta and Kyocera document imaging equipment in the United States. DEX Imaging has 26 locations in Florida, Tennessee, Maryland, Alabama and Mississippi, with one of the company's main regional distribution centers located in Pompano Beach, Fla.]]> Tue, 7 May 2013 00:43:22 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124508 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124508 gap intelligence has launched the latest version of its Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) suite to include managed print services (MPS) capabilities. The platform's user interface is designed to help technology sales professionals effectively demonstrate to their customers a total cost savings over time while shortening sales cycles and driving revenue growth.

"The addition of MPS support and copier-based products to our tool allows our clients to support any device type and sales scenario," said Gary Peterson, president, gap intelligence. "We can empower sales organizations to optimize these IT hardware systems' benefits on their customers' workplace productivity and communicate those positive impacts on their bottom line."

gapTCO clients can expect improved competitive positioning to customers, ongoing cost optimization throughout the MPS engagement and reduced time to evaluate profitability of their MPS proposals..

In addition to the user-friendly aspects of the previous platform, the gapTCO system provides additional functions such as a responsive design and product photos for substantiation. Other system features include:

• Accurate data updated weekly and verified by a third party
• Full device, consumable and service contracts database backed by gap intelligence research services
• Proposal generation with custom pricing to fit any custom sales solution
• Analysis of a device's environmental impact

"These new capabilities provide our clients with the technical aptitude needed to be leaders in a very complex and constantly changing MPS industry," said Chris Barnes, vice president, gap intelligence. "Our goal is to create the very best way for users to articulate competitive positioning and value to their customers."]]> Tue, 7 May 2013 00:35:13 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124505 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124505 OKI Data Americas has announced the availability of PaperCut MF, a print job accounting and management software that works with OKI single-function printers, MFPs and open platform MFPs. Designed to support work environments of all sizes, the PaperCut MF software solution helps organizations accurately and conveniently account for – and recoup the costs of – printing and copying. Papercut MF can be combined with a variety of card reader systems available through OKI for easy authentication.

By offering PaperCut MF, OKI Data delivers a software solution that reduces cost, maintains control and better manages printing devices. The solution will allow organizations to automatically purge unreleased print jobs, reducing waste and minimizing print expenses. Other vital cost savings include enforcing individual print limits, requiring duplex printing, forcing black-and-white printing and redirecting large print jobs to high-volume copier-based devices. All of these savings reduce total cost of ownership for virtually any work environment, from health care to education and government to finance.

PaperCut MF includes the following features and functionality:

• "Find Me" Secure Print Release: "Find Me" secure print release protects the privacy of confidential documents while reducing the amount of unclaimed printouts. "Find Me" lets users retrieve a printed document from a PaperCut MF-enabled device by swiping a card or entering a user name or password.
• iPad Mobile and Driverless Web Printing: PaperCut MF provides native iPad print support and Web-based driverless printing as part of the core application.
• Mobile Print Release Application: Mobile Print Release adds a convenient and cost-effective alternative to card readers, usernames and passwords by using any smartphone to release queued print jobs.
• Detailed Reporting: PaperCut MF includes more than 50 pre-formatted reports available for online viewing, printing or exporting. The reports address all areas, ranging from detailed page logs to summaries by user, department, device or environmental impact.
• Embedded Device Support: Multi-vendor fleets are easily supported with PaperCut's extensive portfolio of embedded software which runs on popular copiers and MFPs, including OKI's open platform MFPs.

"OKI Data Americas is pleased to offer PaperCut MF to our existing and prospective customers," said Doug August, senior manager of industry solutions, OKI Data Americas. "All of our printing devices and solutions are designed to optimize workplace performance and deliver a compelling value proposition for organizations of all sizes. With OKI Data printers and complementary solutions, including PaperCut, we will help customers realize immediate improvements in terms of productivity, costs and functionality." ]]> Tue, 7 May 2013 00:33:14 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124504 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124504 West Point Products has announced it has further enhanced its Axess Management Print Service program with the release of Axess Express, a full-service program designed to accelerate the launch and growth of MPS programs for dealers.

Axess Express provides independent resellers with all-inclusive solutions to sell MPS and provides customized base pricing, program infrastructure, contract fulfillment and customer service support. Axess Express includes the turnkey delivery of account review documentation, simple invoicing and proposal documents and pricing, without the start-up costs that can prevent many MPS programs from getting off the ground.

"We wanted to be able to empower our resellers to provide MPS solutions to their customers without the expense or risk that can be associated with the MPS business model," said Ray Loisel, senior vice president, MPS, for West Point Products. "Axess Express is designed to be the most extensive and flexible solution for resellers needing this level of program support for MPS. At West Point Products, we are giving our resellers the opportunity to focus their organizations on customer relationships and sales, plus the ability to offer MPS outside their traditional service region, while we provide MPS contract execution on a private-label basis."

Axess MPS first launched in 2009 and is rooted in the company's Axess MPS remote monitoring software. Since that time, West Point Products' Axess MPS program has grown into a suite of MPS products and services, and has earned the CompTIA Managed Print Trustmark for the use of industry-accepted best practices of quality MPS service delivery and a high level of customer service.

"Axess Express was developed in response to independent resellers' need for a ready-to-use and profitable MPS solutions they could offer their customers," said Tom Day, president, West Point Products. "I see this as another way we are helping our customers grow their businesses."]]> Tue, 7 May 2013 00:12:54 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124495 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124495 BTA would like to welcome the following new members to the association.

Dealer Members:

Berwicks Office Technology, 355 Montague Road, West End, Queensland, Australia 04101, Phone: 3010 3200, www.berwicksoffice.com.au, Warren Redhead, CEO

BESCO, 570 Cheyenne Ave., Ste. 220, North Las Vegas, NV 89030, Phone: (702) 568-6637, Howard Brooks, president

Co-Fax Office Systems Inc., 2433 Lacy Lane, Ste. 101, Carrollton, TX 75006-6521, Phone: (972) 241-1208, Mike Skelton, president

FlexPrint Inc., 1911 E. 5th St., Tempe, AZ 85281, Phone: (480) 368-0011, www.flexprintinc.com, Frank Gaspari

Kempenfelt Imaging Systems Inc., 122 Commerce Park Drive, Unit B & C, Barrie, Ontario, Canada L4N 8W8, Phone: (705) 733-8881, www.kempenfelt.ca, Jody Patfield, president

Noordyk Business Equipment, 3606 Remembrance Road N.W., Grand Rapids, MI 49534-2230, Phone: (616) 459-4101, www.noordyk.com, Bill Noordyk, owner

Rogersville Office Supply Co. Inc., 500 W. Main St., Rogersville, TN 37857, Phone: (423) 272-7664, Gary Varnell

Service Associate Members:

CBAC LLC, 75 Bette Drive, P.O. Box 116, Manchester, CT 06040, Phone: (877) 769-1469, www.cbacfunding.com, Andrew Cravenho, CEO

Insights53 LLC, 2592 Viola Gill Lane, Wildwood, MO 63040, Phone: (636) 236-6691, www.insights53.com, Jim Heffernan, president

SalesFish, 7 Pillar St., Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia 04350, Phone: 1300 355 399, www.salesfish.com.au, Jason King, managing director

Vendor Associate Members:

Autotask Corp., 26 Tech Valley Drive, Ste. 2, East Greenbush, NY 12061, Phone: (518) 720-3500, Amanda Stopera, event specialist

MAPA Systems, 523 S. Meyer Ave., Valmeyer, IL 62295, Phone: (316) 303-2641, www.mapasystems.com, Ray Stasieczko, CEO ]]> Mon, 6 May 2013 21:52:58 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124493 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124493 Canon U.S.A. Inc. has announced the imageRUNNER ADVANCE 500iF/400iF monochrome multifunction office systems. Offering seamless integration with other imageRUNNER ADVANCE systems, the imageRUNNER ADVANCE 500iF/400iF models deliver operational and solutions consistency with the imageRUNNER ADVANCE platform. The compact, high-speed MFPs allow customers using black-and-white single-function printers (SFPs) and MFPs in the 40 to 55 page-per-minute (ppm) range to implement a flexible print solution that offers the ability to increase fleet cohesiveness across a network.

"The new imageRUNNER ADVANCE 500iF/400iF models are ideal solutions for any business, especially those offices that require full-scale workflow support that is consistent across their business — whether in the local office or across the fleet," said Sam Yoshida, vice president and general manager, Canon U.S.A. "These new models will allow organizations of any size to leverage innovative mobile and cloud-based solutions as well as track and manage cost effectiveness, all while advancing productivity, collaboration and ease-of-use in the workplace without sacrificing space."

Representing the most compact imageRUNNER ADVANCE MFPs yet in Canon's lineup, the imageRUNNER ADVANCE 500iF and imageRUNNER ADVANCE 400iF feature black-and-white print speeds of up to 52 ppm and 42 ppm (letter), respectively. Both are able to scan up to 52 letter-sized images-per-minute in color and black and white. Each MFP has a standard paper capacity of 650 letter- or legal-size sheets that can be expanded to 2,300 sheets with the purchase of up to three optional 550-sheet paper cassettes.

Requiring an installation space of just 31-by-22 inches, these new devices can fit into a variety of office environments where saving space is important, or where printing of larger size paper formats is not required. These devices can also serve as a small-footprint addition to an enterprise fleet with the ability to co-exist with other imageRUNNER AVANCE MFPs that are managed across a network.

Building upon the established design, workflow, control, performance and responsibility attributes of the previous generation, some of the new features and capabilities found in the imageRUNNER ADVANCE 500iF/400iF include:

• Performance Improvements: With the new "Quick Startup Mode" it only takes approximately seven seconds from turning on the main power until the key operation on the touch panel display becomes available, while maintaining standby electricity use of less than 0.5 watts.
• Intuitive Design: With two menus available on the 7-inch, full color, tiltable, high resolution TFT screen, users have instant access to the main options but can also save frequently used features to a second menu. For added customization, administrators can organize and control the on-screen layout and display to feature a preferred order of features and display customized company graphics.
• Workflow Support: The new models support Canon's MEAP (Multifunctional Embedded Application Platform) and MEAP Web platforms, allowing expanded integration within business workflow applications, including a variety of mobile and cloud printing solutions. The imageRUNNER ADVANCE Desktop Quick Printing Tool makes it easy to drag and drop documents to quickly print, fax and bind using standard and customized document templates.
• Enhanced Security: A Hard Disk Drive Erase function, available on prior systems as an option, is standard on these new models. It helps protect sensitive information by overwriting latent images after each task. An HDD Lock function, also a new standard feature, helps protect data stored in the HDD from being accessed by a PC after removing it from the device. IPsec, another previously optional feature that's now standard, helps protect data that crosses through the network.
• Managed Document Services Support: The new models offer both platform and operational consistency with larger imageRUNNER ADVANCE systems. This means customers can implement advanced workflow and managed services tools across their MFP fleet without sacrificing space or having to learn a new workflow. The new models also support more plug-ins for imageWARE Enterprise Management Console than the prior models, resulting in higher-level and more convenient integrated device management. A variety of plug-ins are supported, including ones that allow service providers to manage the migration and deployment of device settings, conduct firmware updates and manage devices in an intranet environment within the same application.

The imageRUNNER ADVANCE 500iF and imageRUNNER ADVANCE 400iF are available now through Canon authorized dealers at manufacturer's suggested retail prices of $5,250 and $4,200, respectively. ]]> Mon, 6 May 2013 18:37:05 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124323 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124323 Office Document Consulting Inc. (ODC) has introduced MPS in a tablet — a platform designed for sales to deliver managed print resources to prospective customers.

"After working with a significant number of dealers making the transition into managed print services, we found sales reps struggling to articulate and demonstrate the value of MPS," said Mike Lamothe, president, ODC.

The tablet solution is a collection of the most important MPS components, including remote management software, MPS documents, SMB and enterprise MPS presentations, videos and e-learning, along with DOCassess assessment software and a CRM with connectivity into the ERP system to manage it all. ]]> Sun, 5 May 2013 21:10:07 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124322 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124322 Samsung Electronics America Inc. has launched a new global brand campaign designed to show the company's commitment to innovation and business experiences in a number of industries, including retail, hospitality, health care, education and SMB markets. The campaign, called the "New Business Experience," leverages the company's popularity among consumers and shows its technology solving everyday challenges in a seamless fashion for the enterprise.

"We're extending Samsung's strong consumer brand awareness into the business-to-business market," said Tod Pike, senior vice president, Enterprise Business Division, Samsung. "Many business leaders know and trust Samsung products and use them in their personal lives, whether it's a TV, laptop, home appliance, Galaxy Tab or smartphone. Our goal with this campaign is to demonstrate that Samsung's vertical market technologies mirror the company's commitment to innovation in consumer electronics and offer business leaders a consistent experience."

As more professionals are investing their own resources to purchase and use a broad range of consumer technologies in the enterprise, the demand has increased for the same level of experience they receive from their personal technology devices. Messages throughout the campaign are intended to create relevance and demonstrate how Samsung can help target vertical markets to resolve business issues and deliver a seamless technology experience for both their customers and employees.

The campaign, which begins in nine markets including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, China, Singapore, Russia and Brazil, includes print, video and animated banner advertisements along with a website landing page and a case study landing page. The "New Business Experience" is designed to show the various innovative ways of working with Samsung technology through the depiction of a traditional business activity with an unexpected scenario in a retail, health care, education or hospitality setting.

"New Business Experience" links:

• YouTube Channel Video
• Landing Page

]]> Sun, 5 May 2013 20:52:58 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124321 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=124321 GreatAmerica Financial Services Corp. has announced that it has added Print Audit Premier as an offering under its FleetView brand of device remote monitoring and management. Previously powered by either PrintFleet or FM Audit, the FleetView expansion with Print Audit allows resellers to not only monitor devices, but also influence print behaviors through its rules-based structure. Additional functionality available to the end user includes built-in cost recovery capabilities, follow-me printing and secure print release.

"We began to see enthusiasm for rules-based tools that added more sophistication to our customers' MPS programs," said Jennie Fisher, senior vice president and general manager, GreatAmerica Office Equipment Group, and board member, Managed Print Services Association. "MPS has evolved and adding FleetView, powered by Print Audit, seemed like the best way for us to help the more advanced MPS providers become more effective in their approach."

FleetView allows office equipment dealers to proactively understand and improve the efficiency of their customers' output environments, something Edwards & Virginia Business Systems, an MPS provider for more than 10 years and a long-time GreatAmerica customer, has seen firsthand.

"As our business has grown, we needed to find new ways to enhance our offering and bring additional value to our clients," said Dexter Loeble, senior marketing director, Edwards & Virginia Business Systems. "Print Audit provided both the technology and marketing resources that enabled us to get closer to our clients' current needs, while increasing operational efficiency and profit."

The Print Audit model is designed to help an MPS provider save its end-user clients' money and provide additional features, but also turn a typical cost center into a revenue generator. By providing end users new benefits and value, office equipment dealers can charge a monthly fee, which grows their recurring revenue.

GreatAmerica has been active with MPS solutions for a decade, specializing in bundled billing and offering other nonfinancial services for its customers, like Collabrance managed IT services. The company has offered hosted fleet monitoring solutions for more than seven years.]]> Sun, 5 May 2013 20:46:09 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123834 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123834 On June 5-6 in Denver, Colo., the Business Technology Association (BTA) will host ProFinance 2.0, a one-and-a-half-day financial benchmarking educational course for office technology dealers. The course is led by instructors John Hey and John Hanson of Strategic Business Associates.

Over the last 10 years, the principles of ProFinance have dramatically improved the performance of hundreds of dealerships. But with the introduction of color, connectivity, software and managed print services (MPS) the business has changed — and ProFinance has changed with it. ProFinance 2.0 incorporates these changes into the new industry model, including benchmarks for MPS. With more than 30 key benchmarks, this management tool will help you and your team achieve double-digit operating income.

Hey and Hanson lead will share their knowledge from 25-plus years of experience in building one of the largest dealerships in North America and on advising many of the most successful companies in the industry. This hands-on training will provide practical ideas that can be put into action immediately. It will give your company the competitive edge that is so vital in today's marketplace. Learn proven sales and service plans, effective management bonus programs and critical organizational strategies.

ProFinance is one of BTA’s longest-running courses and has received many positive reviews through the years. Among the comments from recent attendees:

• "After working for a company that has implemented this model, I have an extreme appreciation for it and the culture and integrity that it brings to the business. Well done!" — Cyndi Orner, Fisher's Document Systems, Boise, Idaho
• "We should have made the commitment to invest in this class years ago. It’s more than a financial model, but a framework for continual improvement. I’m excited to put this to use." — Gary Thomas, Thomas Office Machines, Muncie, Ind.

Commit to improving the performance of your organization. Register today and bring your key decision makers to ProFinance 2.0. It is an investment that will give you and your team valuable knowledge and will provide immediate take-home value.

For more information or to register for ProFinance 2.0, visit www.bta.org/ProFinance or call (800) 843-5059. BTA members can also use their $250 coupon received with membership when registering. Returning BTA-member ProFinance students seeking a refresher course and the opportunity to obtain the new model can attend for 50 percent off the member price (coupon does not apply). ]]> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:54:32 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123799 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123799 Eastman Kodak Co. has announced a comprehensive settlement agreement with the U.K. Kodak Pension Plan (KPP), its largest creditor, with respect to its Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization. Under the agreement, which will be filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Kodak's Personalized Imaging and Document Imaging businesses will be spun off under new ownership to KPP.

The settlement agreement provides, among other things, for the spin-off of Kodak's Personalized Imaging and Document Imaging businesses to KPP for cash and non-cash consideration of $650 million. Certain proceeds will be used to support the emergence of Kodak from Chapter 11 and the growth of its Commercial Imaging business. The agreement also settles approximately $2.8 billion of claims by KPP against Kodak and certain of its affiliates.

"In one comprehensive transaction, Kodak will realize its previously announced intention to divest its Personalized Imaging and Document Imaging businesses and settle its largest legacy liability," said Antonio M. Perez, chairman and CEO, Kodak. "The KPP transaction moves us past several key hurdles in our reorganization, resolving all potential claims worldwide, assuring continued operations outside of the United States, placing our Personalized Imaging and Document Imaging businesses with a new owner that recognizes their value and is focused on their growth and success, and providing the remaining liquidity we require to emerge from Chapter 11. We are very pleased with the transaction, the value it creates for our stakeholders, and the dedication and creativity of KPP that made it possible to achieve this extraordinary result."

"KPP and Kodak have been working collaboratively since the beginning of the case, and this acquisition provides security for and delivers the greatest value to the KPP members," said Steven Ross, chairman, KPP. "Overall, this settlement gives the KPP members greatly improved future prospects whilst being good for Kodak's employees, its creditors and for U.K. businesses. The businesses that we are acquiring will deliver long-term cash flows to support the plan's obligations. The financial stability that KPP will provide for the Personalized Imaging and Document Imaging businesses will be beneficial to those businesses' employees, customers and partners."

The agreement will be implemented as part of Kodak's Chapter 11 plan in the United States. At consummation of the spin-off, Kodak and its worldwide affiliates will be released from their obligations to KPP. The UK Pensions Regulator ("the Regulator") has been kept fully informed of this process and the Regulator has granted clearance in respect of the acquisition. The Regulator has decided that it will approve the release of Kodak Limited, the KPP's sponsoring employer, from its liabilities to the KPP and the UK Pension Protection Fund has confirmed that it has no objection. Closing of the transaction is subject to the approval of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, approval by the Regulator and the satisfaction or waiver of other conditions precedent.

Kodak intends to file a draft Chapter 11 plan with the Bankruptcy Court on April 30, and to seek approval of the KPP settlement and related transactions promptly thereafter, withdrawing the previously-filed motion for the standalone sale of the Document Imaging business. ]]> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:18:37 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123797 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123797 DocuWare Corp. has announced an alliance with Artsyl Technologies, making it a preferred vendor for Authorized DocuWare Partners (ADPs) in 2013.

In conjunction with its annual community conference, DocuWorld 2013, DocuWare has announced that Artsyl Technologies will host a training session for the conference's attendees.

"Partnering with DocuWare is a natural next step in what has been a long and productive relationship," said Jeff Moore, chief sales officer, Artsyl Technologies Inc. "The tight integration of these two very powerful platforms, combined with the network of ADPs across the Americas, will make for a formidable technology partnership. We look forward to solving complex customer business process problems and winning a lot of business together with DocuWare and the ADP community."

The combination of Artsyl's docAlpha Advanced Capture Platform for automated document and data capture with DocuWare Version 6 will make for a powerful solution enabling ADPs to win business in the areas of invoice automation, purchase order automation, health-care revenue cycle management, financial services automation and more.

The training session on automating accounts payable invoice processing with docAlpha, conducted by Moore, will show DocuWare partners and customers how docAlpha can cut labor costs, reduce data-entry errors and provide more visibility in the AP process. During this dive into docAlpha's features and functionality, Artsyl will show how simple it is to work with docAlpha, as well as demonstrate amazing features such as the new definition design wizard and integration with the latest version of DocuWare.

"This is a prime opportunity for our ADPs to learn firsthand the many benefits of adding this capture technology to their list of client offerings," said Steve Behm, vice president of sales, DocuWare.

"Over the coming months and years, customers will come to see the tremendous power and value of DocuWare combined with Artsyl's docAlpha capture platform," Moore said.

The Artsyl training session will take place on Friday, May 10, from 3 to 6 p.m. The DocuWorld conference and all related workshops will be held from May 8-10 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. Artsyl Technologies will also be an exhibitor at the show's Technology Pavilion.]]> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:04:27 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123790 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123790 InkCycle has released its HP 950/951/950XL/951XL remanufactured inkjet cartridges.

These cartridges are for use in the HP Officejet Pro 8100e (N811a/N811d), HP Officejet Pro 8600 e-All-in-One (N911a), HP Officejet Pro 8600 Premium a-All-in-One (N911n), HP Officejet Pro 8600 Plus e-All-in-One (N911g).

The following cartridges are available now:

• 102019908 HP 950 CN049AN Reman Blk Ink PR
• 102019910 HP 951 CN050AN Reman Cyn Ink PR
• 102019912 HP 951 CN051AN Reman Mag Ink PR
• 102019914 HP 951 CN052AN Reman Yel Ink PR

The 950XL and 951XL are only available through InkCycle's batching program. Company engineers have successfully created a remanufacturing process for the product line, however, due to limited availability of empties, it cannot support a mass release. Batch cartridges include:

• HP 950XL CN045AN Reman Blk Ink PR
• HP 951XL CN046AN Reman Cyn Ink PR
• HP 951XL CN047AN Reman Mag Ink PR
• HP 951XL CN048AN Reman Yel Ink PR

]]> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:47:44 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123785 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123785 Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc. (Konica Minolta) has launched the bizhub 4700P/4000P/3300P Series of monochrome printers. Going beyond conventional desktop printers, the bizhub 4700P/4000P/3300P Series is ideal for executive suites and small businesses with growing workloads as well as health-care practices of all sizes.

This new series offers up to 50 page-per-minute (ppm) output in high-resolution black and white, fast warm-up/first-copy times and 2,300-sheet maximum paper capacity. In addition, the bizhub 4700P/4000P/3300P Series can handle paper sizes up to 8.5-by-14 inches and weights from 16 lb. bond to 43 lb. cover stock. Along with 1,200-by-1,200-dpi resolution monochrome image quality, this series includes Konica Minolta's standard print drivers with a familiar interface for both Windows and Macintosh environments. Improvements in operating efficiency in the bizhub 4700P/4000P/3300P Series helps reduce costs, including a special Eco-mode that minimizes power consumption, toner and paper use. In addition, a "hibernation" setting offers power consumption of as little as 1 watt of power when the printer is not in use.

For health-care practices, the bizhub 4700P/4000P/3300P Series offers seamless integration with the TypeHaus FormJet Prescription Secure solution to allow health-care professionals to print patient prescriptions without the need for costly prescription forms, but with the security requirements mandated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

"The wide range of capabilities offered by this new monochrome series, coupled with a small footprint, make these models ideal for any business environment needing accessibility at the tip of their fingers," said Kevin Kern, senior vice president of marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A. Inc. "The bizhub 4700P/4000P/3300P Series is yet another series in the bizhub family that customers can count on to speed workflow and improve overall efficiency."]]> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:43:31 GMT http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123782 http://www.bta.org/news/news.asp?id=123782 Lexmark International Inc. has announced its new Lexmark MX6500e Multifunction Option that expands the capabilities of the company's workgroup monochrome printers to create a multifunction system that meets customers' capture, copy and finishing needs.

The Lexmark MX6500e Multifunction Option easily combines with Lexmark's MS710 Series* and MS810 Series* of monochrome laser printers with a modular design that adapts to the layout of a facility or office to enable workflow efficiency. Users can conveniently position the device closest to where the work is performed, including lower heights for easier accessibility and serviceability.

The Lexmark MX6500e Multifunction Option features advanced functionality to increase user productivity:

• Accessible through the 10.2-inch color touch screen, premium business solutions such as Barcode Discovery, Scan to Network Premium and Scan to SharePoint simplify work processes
• Delivers reliable performance for high-volume scanning of up to 5,000 pages per day
• Handles a wide variety of media with the rugged automatic document feeder — from rigid ID cards to thin, carbonless paper
• Scans two-sided documents very quickly, up to 86 images per minute
• Protects sensitive data with standard network security protocols, data encryption and disk wiping capabilities

*Compatible with Lexmark MS710dn, MS711dn, MS810n/dn, MS811n/dn and MS812dn monochrome laser printer models.]]> Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:40:01 GMT