Ricoh Australia has released its new Flex Series range featuring an integrated cloud platform that connects users of compatible office multifunction devices (MFD) to 15 popular cloud services without requiring any on-site software.

The cloud services range from file storage and collaboration services to document management sites and customer relationship management (CRM) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms. It is accessed through the new Ricoh touch screen, called the Smart Operation Panel.

John Hall, managing director, Ricoh Australia, said, “People are accustomed to using smart phones, so it makes sense to have a similar interface in the workplace. The new Ricoh SOP lets you use your office device just like any other touch screen technology. It gives users direct access to many of the apps they’re already using and lets them work the way they want. Whether you use Evernote, Google Docs, Dropbox or any of the other apps offered, the integrated cloud and smart panel touch screen make integration with your Ricoh Flex Series device seamless.”

The Flex Series offering includes integration with business-critical platforms for document management, CRM, and ERP. It enables users to scan important documents from their MFD, directly to these services, instead of sending an email attachment or scanning to a folder. The solution includes in-cloud OCR capabilities, so users can create searchable, editable files via the smart operation touch panel – with a simple touch, swipe or pinch. It saves time and reduces human error.

John Hall said, “Ricoh’s MFDs are some of the most cloud-connected devices available. They don’t require you to work with them; they fit to you and your individual business needs. The combination of the new Flex series devices, smart panel and integrated cloud provides an incredibly easy way to get business documents to cloud services with using familiar touch screen gestures directly at the multifunction device, instead of having to scan and send to email or a network drive.”

“The Ricoh Flex Series brings the MFD into the mobile age, reflecting the growing need for employees to be able to work on any document, from any location, using any device. Ricoh is supporting the need for information workers to work the way they want to, rather than being limited by technology.”

Ricoh Australia