New print devices are being introduced across Newport News Shipbuilding, a rollout that will improve how employees print, scan, copy and fax, as well as provide cost savings, efficiency and increased security.
NNS and the Managed Print Services Program are working with Canon Solutions America to replace around 1,500 devices. The rollout began Jan. 10 and will continue through July. The Canon devices will replace older equipment, offering faster print speeds and increased capabilities. In addition, Canon will provide support for barcode printers as well as plotters, which print large-format documents and drawings.
Renee Bell, IT project manager, said disruption should be minimal throughout the phased process. Canon personnel will do a quick demonstration when devices are installed for employees who are available that day. A quick reference card will be included with all new devices, and a user guide will be available on the Managed Print Services site.
Drelena Saunders, a systems application analyst, said a study of print services expenses that began in 2022 showed how cost savings could be achieved across HII. Ingalls Shipbuilding already uses Canon equipment, while Mission Technologies had contracts with various suppliers across its many locations. Contracting with Canon “brings everything under one supplier,” she said.
Users will now call the NNS Service Desk for service or to receive supplies for Canon devices. Canon will use NNS’ ticketing tool, SMAX, to receive and resolve support requests, or trouble tickets. After the devices are installed, Canon will remotely monitor toner level and equipment performance. They will send toner and dispatch repair help in real time.
Additionally, the devices offer a secure function, enhancing confidentiality for printed items. This feature contributes to heightened security and reduces environmental impact by allowing users to refrain from printing documents even after sending them to the device (e.g., if the incorrect version or file was sent to the device). This minimizes unnecessary resource usage. Details on this feature are in the user guide.
