The Journey of Xerox – From Photocopiers to Managed Print Services
Xerox Corporation, the American multinational document management corporation, has been a leading player in the industry for more than a century. With its roots tracing back to the invention of the first plain paper photocopier, Xerox has come a long way in expanding its business model to provide a broad array of services. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the transformation of Xerox’s business model from its origins to the present day, with a focus on its evolving approach to managed print services.
Xerox’s Early Years
Founded in 1906 as The Haloid Photographic Company, Xerox initially manufactured photographic paper and equipment. However, the picture changed in 1938 when Chester Carlson invented the dry process of copying, which led to the first Xerox photocopier. Over the years, various models of photocopiers were designed, including the Xerox 914, which became a commercial success and made the company a household name. The photocopier was wildly popular, transforming the world of office management and productivity. Moreover, the invention of the laser printer in 1969 further cemented Xerox’s place in the printing industry.
Xerox’s Shift to Services
Despite having a stranglehold in the photocopier and printing industry, Xerox saw a shift over the years from manufacturing technology products to providing services. One main area of focus for Xerox has been managed print services (MPS), where the company handles the end-to-end printing process, from initial assessment to implementation and ongoing support. This puts the customer’s printing infrastructure, software, equipment, and supplies under one roof. Over time, this became an essential part of the company’s business model, with MPS accounting for a significant slice of Xerox’s revenue in recent years.
MPS and the Digital Age
As the world became increasingly digitized, MPS evolved to cater to the changing technological landscape. Xerox shifted to digital services like document management systems, cloud printing, and mobile printing. The company’s services have expanded to include workflow automation software that streamlines document-centric processes and helps customers digitize their workflow, reducing costs and improving operational efficiency. Xerox now positions itself as a complete solution provider, offering an extensive range of services from printing to document management.
Xerox’s Competitive Edge
Xerox’s shift from selling products to managed print services has enabled the company to provide value-added services that differentiate it from its competitors. Xerox customizes its MPS offerings, providing personalized solutions for specific customer needs. Additionally, the company has a broad service network of tech experts ready to provide on-site support. In terms of innovation, Xerox has continued to be on the cutting edge with its invention of electronic paper, a thin and flexible material that can be reused repeatedly.
Conclusion
Xerox has proven that innovation and adaptation are key to staying relevant in an ever-changing industry. The company’s transformation from a manufacturer to a service provider has been fruitful, and the success of its managed print services is proof. With robust offerings to help facilitate digital transformation and its market leadership in MPS, Xerox continues to remain a top choice for organizations looking for agile and innovative document management solutions.
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