(Weymouth, MA) January 15, 2003…Remote diagnostic applications and solutions are evolving from proprietary tools once limited to major capital investments into cost-effective Internet-enabled Device Relationship Management (DRM) solutions that support a broad range of connected intelligent devices in all aspects of today’s world. Nevertheless, as these solutions are still maturing, DRM remains an emerging application in the copier/printer world.

DRM technologies are designed to facilitate predictive maintenance and accurate tracking of billable consumables and support services as well as monitor the usage of network printing devices. DRM solutions support remote diagnostics and remote device monitoring, and can be implemented to scrutinize usage within the enterprise as well as establish real-time communications between the enterprise and suppliers of repair and maintenance services for networked copiers and printers.

As users become accustomed to DRM capabilities in other aspects of their business operations, they will increasingly demand the same types of management tools for networked output devices. DRM enables providers of networked office equipment to differentiate themselves in the marketplace, incorporate more value-added services, and offset the margin erosion that is typically experienced in a mature industry.

“For manufacturers of office equipment, building an integrated DRM strategy today will help enable survival tomorrow,” commented Joel Mazza, Associate Director of CAP Ventures’ Network Document Solutions Consulting Service. “Not only will customers require it, but the economics of delivering efficient and effective repair, replenishment, and other services will demand implementation of automated processes in lieu of expensive on-site delivery wherever possible within the supply chain.”

CAP Ventures’ white paper entitled Software Innovations: From Remote Diagnostics to Device Relationship Managementwill analyze the innovations and technology standards for Device Relationship Management solutions as they apply to network connected output devices. This white paper offers tips on successfully selling DRM, and reports on the perspectives of three vendors currently implementing DRM solutions.

The complete white paper is available immediately to clients of CAP Ventures’ Network Document Solutions Consulting Service. To learn more about the study or to make a purchase, please contact Alison Hipp at , ext. 126 or .