Workflow software is the engine driving enhanced service experiences in modern workplace technology environments, but fast-paced changes can have a hazy effect on the best ways to move forward. Innovative solutions from OEMs and vendor partners can help. Contributor Noel Ward offers suggestions regarding how dealers can get ahead of customer questions surrounding AI, the cloud, and cybersecurity while growing “smarter” businesses.
In a related story, I took a deep dive into Konica Minolta’s bizhub vCare Pro Suite and improvements to the manufacturer’s remote service model. (Hint: The ROI keeps getting better.) Soon, U.S. customers will see technicians wearing headsets equipped with infrared cameras because heat sensors can detect printhead problems. We also look at the healthcare vertical market opportunity, and outside-the-box thinker Petra Diener shares what her broken microwave oven has in common with copier machines requiring service.
More workplace technology content
I recapped last month’s Executive Connection Summit (ECS), offering my top 10 workplace technology takeaways. Number 2 is: Autonomous mobile robots are coming to the channel in 2026. In Japan, Epson has opened its XaILab, which is far from a typical showroom. Correspondent Tetsuo Kubo has the scoop. Speaking of artificial intelligence and robotics, six of the imaging industry’s icons share perspectives on some of the biggest changes they’ve seen in office technology over the past four or five decades. Some of their answers in our Q&A may surprise you.
From COVID to tariffs, the past five years have not been kind to independent, workplace technology dealer owners. In the latest CR CONNECT – DEALER TOUR, Andrew Ritschel opens up about challenges he has faced at Electronic Office Systems (EOS) in Fairfield, New Jersey. Plus, to commemorate Women’s History Month 2026, Senior VP of Client Services Carol Cannata interviewed a 106-year-old woman. She’s the oldest resident of Medford, Massachusetts. You don’t want to miss her latest “Coffee with Carol” column! And, in a “Veterans Way” interview, Frank Cannata introduces us to Deepak Sharma, once a U.S. Army combat engineer, now working for Kyocera in a service director capacity.
