Digital Disruption, the Future of Work, and the Evolving Role of Print

Sustainability

With increasing awareness of environmental impact, businesses are under pressure to adopt sustainable practices. As discussed in the interview with Lexmark, achieving sustainability in the print market requires innovation in product design and a focus on simplicity. The future of work demands environmentally responsible solutions, and print environments must adapt by using energy-efficient printers that incorporate sustainable design and manufacturing processes, reducing paper consumption, and embracing recycling and remanufacturing programmes.

Cybersecurity

The rise in cyber threats, particularly for SMBs as explored in the interview with Sharp, necessitates robust security measures. The future of work involves handling sensitive data, and print environments must be secure to prevent breaches. This includes implementing secure printing solutions, access controls, and employee training to mitigate risks.

Data-Driven Innovation and AI

As highlighted in the interviews with Xerox and HP Inc., data and AI are transforming business operations. Modernising print environments means integrating data analytics and AI to optimise workflows, personalise printing experiences, and gain insights into print usage patterns. AI can also play a crucial role in promoting sustainability by optimising print processes and reducing waste.

The Future of Print in the Workplace

While digital technologies and changing working patterns have reduced overall print volumes, print remains relevant in specific contexts. The future of print in the workplace lies in its ability to adapt to the changing needs of businesses. This includes:

• Integration with Digital Workflows: Print solutions must seamlessly integrate with digital workflows to support hybrid work models and enable efficient information sharing.
• Enhanced Security: Print devices and solutions must incorporate advanced security features to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorised access.
• Sustainability Focus: Print environments must prioritise sustainability through energy-efficient devices, reduced paper consumption, and responsible disposal practices.
• Data-Driven Optimisation: Print solutions can leverage data analytics and AI to optimise print processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

Learn more in the following episodes, presented in collaboration with Microsoft Universal Print.

• The Intersection of AI and Sustainability: featuring Neil Sawyer, MD NorthWest Europe, and Nancy Powell, Sustainability Lead UK&I, HPhttps://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/microsoft-365/windows/universal-https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/microsoft-365/windows/universal-printprint
• Driving Sustainable Product Innovation: featuring Danny Molhoek, VP EMEA Sales, and Kyle Murray, VP Product Development and Manufacturing, Lexmark
• Small Business, Big Threat: The Cybersecurity Challenge for SMBs: featuring Jason Cort, Director Product Planning & Marketing, Sharp Europe
• Data-driven Innovation in the Era of AI: featuring Darren Cassidy, President, Western Europe Named Accounts, Xerox

Watch the full series of In the Spotlight Special Edition to learn more about how to adopt new print technologies for a sustainable, secure, and future-proofed work environment.