Xerox urges its channel to exploit MFP growth
Web-based MFPs set to create development opportunities for Xerox’s software partners
Xerox
partners are to reap the rewards of the vendor’s increased focus on
web-based multifunctional printer (MFP) software.Following the launch
of Xerox’s Extensible Interface Platform (EIP) last October, a software
platform that developers can use to create server-based applications
for MFPs, 230 software developers have downloaded Xerox’s software
development kit.Xerox has just launched its first colour MFPs to take
advantage of EIP, the WorkCentre 7300 series and WorkCentre 7675, which
can be integrated with web-based applications.
Darren Cassidy,
director and general manager of Xerox UK’s office group, told CRN:
“It’s about having the power of a PC on an MFP. In essence, users could
put all the same applications from their desktop on to an MFP, but most
people would not really want or need that, so we are encouraging our
software partners to develop applications that are beneficial to end
users.”Cassidy is also keen to hear suggestions for new software from
channel partners. “Partners can look at the range of bespoke Xerox
applications that have already been created and see if any of them
would suit their customers’ needs or they can come to us with ideas for
new software and we will get one of our developer partners working on
it,” said Cassidy.James Kight, managing director of VAR Printerland,
said: “The more software that is available to us the better, as it sets
us apart from the competition.”Louella Fernandes, principal analyst at
Quocirca, added: “Printer vendors need to find ways to create more
revenue for their partners. Canon, Ricoh and HP all have open-source
software platforms, but Xerox’s is more advanced technology wise.”