The Death of RPA: From Managed Print Services to Intelligent Automation

Reading "RIP to RPA: The Rise of Intelligent Automation" by Kimberly Tan has been a lightbulb moment—a new way to see the Managed Print Services (MPS) platform. Tan’s insights on how AI is replacing traditional labor-heavy tasks with intelligent automation struck a chord. MPS has long wrestled with the repetitive and manual, but imagine if we could take it beyond managing print jobs to actually reshaping entire document workflows. 

Xerox Reinvents Amidst Major Layoffs: 3,000 Jobs Cut as the Era of the Copier Nears Its End

Xerox. 

That name used to mean something. It meant every office you walked into had the same reliable, slightly greasy machine in the corner—the hum of paper moving through rollers, toner dust filling the air, and the glow of fluorescent lights casting shadows over a maze of cubicles. For a long time, the copier was as much a fixture as the water cooler, the breakroom coffee pot, or the company fridge with someone's yogurt. But times change, and so do the tools we rely on. Now, Xerox is shedding nearly 3,000 jobs—about 15% of its workforce—as it leans into a future that has little room for the copier’s slow, mechanical heart.

Ricoh Takes Robotics to the Next Level: Supporting Humanoid Workers in Tomorrow’s Office

"Okay, but how does this help me sell more copiers today?"

We know Ricoh as the copier company, but their recent move into robotics support might surprise some of us who’ve been in the office tech game for years. 

When you think of Ricoh, you picture copiers or multifunction printers – the bread and butter of many dealerships. But as the business landscape changes, so does Ricoh. Their latest venture? Supporting Agility Robotics’ humanoid robot, Digit. It’s a sign that Ricoh isn’t just sticking to the traditional office technology space but is pushing into new, cutting-edge areas.

Is There Another Kodak Moment in the Industry's Future?

"Scanning" Is Back?

As the Managed Print Services renaissance continues, the mundane and taken for granted "scan-once-print many" feature is also finding revived popularity AND relevance.

Who knew?

This @Kodak Alaris recent strategic pivot to focus heavily on Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) underscores their commitment to a smaller yet growing copier industry niche, document capture and workflow optimization.

Is "Intelligent Document Processing" a logo or an ideal? 

Better Sales People With a Soul. Bourbon is really cool. Ai Around the Globe & THE Reformation of Mankind

Week 19, May 9

What a week?  More like, “What?  A year?”, no, “What?  The Fear of Covid Was TWO YEARS Ago?” Time flies.

​
It is true what ‘they’ say, “as the days in front of you reduce in number, time seems to slide by faster and faster.”  Well, with the way things are today, time is sliding faster FOR EVERYONE. 

When folks ask, “How ya been, Greg?” I answer like everyone else does, “Great. It is a great time to be here” which is for the most part, true.  

But to the very few, which now includes you, may answer is, “The last 24 months have been the worst in my life – and nobody I love died. 

So, I have that to look forward to.”

I take fewer things for granted, my circle has contracted, I “recluse” more and battle the urge to become that bitter dude at the end of the bar – “Get off my lawn.”

Gratitude.

Reflections of The Industry

John the Baptist, incorporating elements from the Island of Misfit Toys, set in a 1960s science fiction and splatter art style. 

March 2024 in the Copier Industry - The Same Only Different

I just read an article over at Cannata Report about diversification of products and services for the copier dealership.  I can't help but to be a bit surprised at how much HASN'T changed in over two decades.

Don't get me wrong, all of the observations and reflections contained are valid and support the notion that doing more of everything is the best way for copier resellers to avoid the same fate as buggy whips and While You Were Out message pads.(you remember those, right?)

Managed Print Services, scanners, telephones, and ink (Edgeline, anyone?) are staunch, proven, and although on the other side of the bell curve, profitable endeavors of pursuit.

Hear me out.

3D "Printers" - More Than Meets the Eye

Spooky, the kid is a table.

Digitally Remastered from 2010.

Let's cut to the chase. 

When most of us hear "3D printer," we don't think of a printer; we think of the replicators from "Star Trek." Yet, during a visit to one of the top design schools in the world (and a current client), I stumbled upon a machine using an Epson printhead to do just that.

Surprisingly, I found myself interrupting someone's lunch to get a tour that included this technological marvel nestled beside the woodshop. My curiosity skyrocketed. Without any previous exposure to 3D printing, I bombarded my impromptu guide with questions about how it works and its use by students.

The first thing that caught my attention was the term "printing" used to describe the process, and second, my guide's charm didn't hurt either.

My last campus visit was decades ago, focused on engineering and business, far from the art world's embrace. Yet, here I was, stepping into Otis College of Art and Design in LA, my curiosity piqued.

Business Matters

Ai, Copiers, & You Leap of Faith - This Leap Year is Your Leap Year

Leap Year - 2024, the Year You Take Control

I know you're out there trying to sell the latest Sharp, or Ricoh device.  And yeah, digital document management is the greatest talk track ever.  Don't forget managed print services, remote monitoring, 400 years in the industry, technicians with real first names, and the dozen or so, sales reps before you that managed your territory into oblivion.

I know you've got a quota, love to cold call and think your manager is the greatest the Western Hemisphere has to offer.

That about it?

Summary of ECS 2024 - Ai

By GRW_GPT

“Implementing AI is going to shrink jobs...you’re going to see legislation that can fundamentally change how you are using AI in your business and what the future possibilities are.” - Joe Brunsman of The Brunsman Group

What You Will Know After Reading:

1. AI as a Central Theme: AI dominated discussions at ECS 2024, highlighting its increasing role in shaping the future of office technology.
2. The Importance of Managed Services and Diversification: Insights from leaders like Frank Cucco and John Hey underscored the need for businesses to innovate and diversify, particularly into managed IT and cybersecurity, to remain competitive.
3. Veterans' Value in the Tech Industry: The summit spotlighted the significant contributions veterans can make to the industry, encouraging companies to embrace their skills and experiences.

The Cloud and Managed Print Services

When: Feb 2, 2024 - Noon, ET

New people taking on the Establishment and helping dealers make their customers happy.

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You are invited to "The Cloud and Managed Print Services" featuring a deep dive into cloud print technology with MyQ. This session will explore the potential of cloud print solutions, emphasizing the cutting-edge features and unique benefits of MyQ Roger. https://lnkd.in/dcntFiYV

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We're going to kick around topics like Clouds, Customers, and Voice Commands. It' is going to be grand.

Déjà vu?

The Resurgence of Managed Print Services: A New Dawn?

I've been asking this for over a year now, "Is MpS is back?"

Surprisingly, dealers and salespeople have been telling me their Prospects are asking for managed print services. Prospects have a definition of managed print services, see a need and are actively seeking out providers.  

Not like the old days.

MPS is not merely surviving; it's thriving and adapting in ways that promise a brighter, more efficient future for businesses worldwide.

Art & Greg: Ask Us Anything

Embark on an enlightening journey through the realms of technology and business with two seasoned experts, Greg Walters and Art Post. This interactive session is a convergence of insights from TheDeathOfTheCopier and P4P Hotel, platforms renowned for their deep dive into managed print services and much more.

Event: Ask Us Anything Date: December 8, 2023 Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST Platform: Zoom

The Future: The Reinvention of Managed Print Services 🖨️

Exploring the Evolution from Device Management to Digital Integration in the World of MPS

The evolution of Managed Print Services (MPS) is marked by a fascinating journey from simple device management to a comprehensive approach encompassing document lifecycle, digital transformation, and advanced technological integration. Initially focused on device output, MPS has shifted towards holistic document management and embracing the digital era, influenced significantly by the advent of hybrid office environments and cloud-based collaborations​​.

Greg Walters, a notable voice in MPS, highlights the enduring philosophy of service-based device management, while acknowledging the transformative impact of digitalization and the shift in device locations due to hybrid workplaces​​. Eric Crump, another industry expert, emphasizes the expansion of MPS to incorporate elements like security and hybrid working solutions, responding to global economic uncertainties​​.

The Vanguard of Managed Print Services in a Digital World

It's no secret, I align with like-minded people in an effort to bring the latest technology to the forefront of our niche and beyond.  I meet hundreds of people and organizations and talk about their views and philosophies on making business better.

Not every discussion leads to an epiphany or any degree of enlightenment. My talks with the MyQ team check both boxes and more.

Check out a vendor deep dive over at The Office Tech Tap to see if their ideas match yours.

Xerox is The Death of The Copier: Unleashed 🐦🔥

The Third Day

📈 Breaking News: Xerox's Latest Earnings Report 📈

Before we dive into the transformative journeys of Xerox and IBM, it's worth noting the latest earnings report from Xerox. The company recently swung to a third-quarter profit, with a net income of $49 million—a significant turnaround from last year's loss. This positive financial performance adds another layer to the story of Xerox's ongoing transformation. 

Now, let's get into the article.

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The 'Death of the Copier'—a phrase that conjures images of obsolescence, but let's set the record straight. 

When I say 'Death of the Copier,' I'm talking about the ultimate rebirth of beliefs, norms, status quo, and in this case, Xerox. 

Xerox has metamorphosed from a company synonymous with photocopying to a digital force offering augmented reality, AI-driven services, and so much more. This isn't just survival; it's enlightenment.

But will it last?  Is Xerox set to survive or thrive?  Are we watching an elephant dance?

📑OTT This Week: AI-Boosted Copier Sales and M&A

October 19, 2023 – Office Tech Tap Newsletter

Ready to rethink what office tech can do for you? This week’s Office Tech Tap Newsletter is your guide to the future, exploring everything from the transformative role of AI in copier sales to the changing dynamics of Mergers and Acquisitions in the industry. We also delve into the fast-paced world of Managed Print Services, where the paper may be folding, but innovation is unfolding. Your feedback is our North Star, so dive in and let us know your thoughts. 🌟🧭

• 🤖💵 Time is money, and AI is your new cashier: In the realm of copier sales, AI is not just a tool; it’s a game-changer. By automating tasks like lead scoring and follow-ups, AI frees up sales reps to focus on relationship-building and closing deals, ultimately boosting efficiency and revenue. Read the full article here.
• 🔄 The Copier Dealer M&A: Dancing Through Office Tech’s Shifting Sands Mergers and Acquisitions in the copier industry are evolving. It’s not just Original Equipment Manufacturers acquiring dealers anymore; dealers are becoming the acquirers, leveraging their economic positions for growth. Read the full article here.
• 🔄 Mind the Gap: AI’s Adoption vs. Training Conundrum – Ricoh. Ricoh’s article highlights the widening gap between AI adoption and essential training in the managed print services sector. This gap is not just a hurdle; it’s a liability and an opportunity for differentiation. Read the full article here.
• MPS – 🖨️ Deep Dive: MPS From Cloud Highs to Market Tides The Managed Print Services landscape is ever-changing, driven by cloud-based solutions and market dynamics. This article serves as a roadmap for providers to not just survive but thrive in this dynamic sector. Read the full article here.

Your feedback is invaluable to us. Navigate through this week’s insights and let us know your thoughts. 🌟🧭

Subscribe Today!

Artificial Intelligence And Your Dealership: The Next Managed Print Services?

Did you know that back in 2009, the term 'managed print services' was met with outright disdain? Dealers and OEMs would exclaim, 'Shrink the fleet to reduce costs? That's heresy in a world built on selling copiers!' Fast forward to today, and we're on the cusp of another paradigm and the most significant shift—this time, powered by Artificial Intelligence.

As Andrew Ng, co-founder of Google Brain and a leading voice in AI, puts it, 'AI is the new electricity.' Just as electricity transformed numerous industries over a century ago, AI is poised to do the same today. 

So, is AI merely the new MpS, or is it something far more transformative?

• Mckinsey: $4.4T of value added world-wide annually
• 80% of all jobs are subject to being enhanced by Generative AI
• In just the last year, a staggering 400 AI start-ups have emerged, gobbling up an eye-watering $24.6 billion in investment. Source: Visual Capitalist

__________

For the last six months, I've been using Artificial Intelligence (AI)in the form of a Large Language Model (LLM) every single day - cutting edge.  More like bleeding edge.

Why aren't you using AI? Today?

Do You Know Jake, the Managed Print Services Selling Professional on the West Coast?

Jake's Odyssey: From Midwest Dreams to Silicon Valley's Vanguard of Managed Services

Jake's journey began in the heartland of America, amidst the golden fields of the Midwest. There, life was simple, and dreams were often tethered to the horizon one could see. But Jake had always felt the pull of something greater, something beyond those fields. So, with a heart full of dreams and a suitcase packed with ambition, he moved to California, the land of innovation and opportunity.

In Silicon Valley, Jake's first foray into the professional world was as a copier sales representative. The copiers, once symbols of innovation, now felt like relics of a fading era. But as the digital age surged, Jake felt adrift, yearning for a new direction.

One transformative evening, Jake chanced upon an article on thedeathofthecopier.com. It wasn't a lament for the past but a beacon to the future, emphasizing the power of Managed Print Services (MPS) and the art of storytelling in sales.

But it was an article from The Imaging Channel that truly resonated with him. It spoke directly to the newbies in copier sales, like Jake, highlighting the potential future in the industry. The article emphasized that while many stumble into the copier industry almost accidentally, it offers invaluable lessons that are universally applicable. It underscored the importance of commitment, curiosity, setting realistic quotas, and above all, authenticity.

Press Release - Top 100 Power Hour Becomes the West McDonald Co. Influencers' Circle

 

October 4, 2023

The acclaimed weekly event, the Top 100 Power Hour, is pivoting with a fresh direction under the experienced guidance of West McDonald Co. Starting this month, the curation of the influential list will transition to West McDonald Co., introducing a new approach to selecting the industry shapers and thought leaders.

Founder West McDonald, known for his past efforts in managed print and his current pragmatic vision in harnessing generative AI for business amplification, will personally handpick the individuals on the list based on their tangible influence that he has experienced firsthand. Not everybody on the current Top 100 list will transition to the Influencers' Circle as membership will be limited to 40 members. 

Moreover, the scope of the new Influencers' Circle is broadening beyond the office equipment channel to encompass various technology solution channels including Managed IT, Cybersecurity, and Generative AI among others. This expansion aims to foster a more holistic representation of the technology solutions space, encouraging a vibrant interplay of ideas and solutions.