Tracking Data Is Crucial, Even When You're Away
Catherine Fiasconaro, September 9, 2024
In today’s fast-paced business world, efficient operations are key to staying ahead. Here’s why keeping tabs on your printing and finishing devices—even when you’re away, say at a trade show—is essential and how it can benefit you.
1. Maintain Operational Efficiency
When you’re out of the office, your business is still operating, and employees are still working hard. By tracking data of your print devices and associated processes, you can monitor their performance and catch potential issues before they escalate. Real-time data on uptime, job details, downtime issues, along with other tracked elements, helps ensure that everything runs smoothly and that your team isn’t caught off-guard by unexpected disruptions.
2. Cost Management
Printer-related expenses can quickly add up, especially if you’re not keeping a close eye on usage. Tracking data allows you to identify patterns, such as excessive printing or waste, and inefficient use of resources. This information is invaluable for managing costs, as it helps you implement strategies to reduce waste and optimize your printer usage.
3. Prevent Downtime
Nothing halts productivity faster than a printer or finishing machine breaking down. By tracking key metrics like usage levels and receiving real-time alerts, you can address and remediate issues in a timely manner. No need to wait three or four days until you are back into the office to learn of issues and get things back up and running and on schedule. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and ensures that your team remains productive, even in your absence.
4. Data-Driven Decisions
Data provides insights into your printing and finishing needs and habits. For instance, if you notice a sudden spike of incoming color print jobs or know that a device is down for repair, you might need to reallocate resources. Being away at a trade show doesn’t mean you have to be out of the loop. With detailed data, you can make informed decisions about resource allocation and what future device purchases or workforce changes may be necessary.
5. Enhanced Security
The security of print devices can be monitored through data tracking. Remote monitoring can spot anomalies in real-time. Keeping an eye on print jobs and logs helps prevent unauthorized use and maintains the confidentiality of sensitive documents.
So, even while you’re networking at a trade show, having a robust data collection system in place ensures that your business is running smoothly and that you stay informed and in control. Tracking data is a smart move that keeps your operations running efficiently, manages costs, and prevents downtime.