Epson

One of the leading manufacturers of inkjet, dot matrix and laser printers, scanners, and other electronics.

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AT A GLANCE

Our global manufacturing company client wanted uninterrupted printing operations for their customers. By integrating IoT technology, data analytics, and automated notifications, we partnered to create Readylnk, which seamlessly monitors ink levels, alerts customers when cartridges are low, and facilitates a streamlined ordering and delivery process.

THE CLIENT

Epson is a globally renowned company in the electronics industry. With a rich history dating back to its founding in Japan, Epson has become one of the world’s leading computer printers and information and imaging equipment manufacturers. Their commitment to excellence and innovation has earned them a strong reputation among consumers and businesses.

Epson is among the top manufacturers of inkjet, dot matrix, laser printers, scanners, and other electronics. Their award-winning innovations benefit retail consumers and organisations in governmental, medical, financial, and other sectors across the globe. As an innovation-driven enterprise, Epson actively generates fresh ideas and aims to supply the market with revolutionary products. One such idea was to provide customers with a hassle-free ink refill system and enable its resellers and distributors to build long-lasting relationships with their clients.

BUSINESS CHALLENGE

Despite being a market-leading company with strong global demand for its products, Epson needed to address these challenges to maintain its competitive edge and continue providing innovative solutions to its customers:

  • Limited time to scale their internal IT department
  • Insufficient availability of qualified in-house engineers
  • Tight project schedule
  • Labour cost constraints

SOLUTION SUMMARY

Computools provided a comprehensive solution. Key achievements included the development of a real-time ink monitoring system, automated refill alerts, and streamlined ordering and delivery processes. These solutions have enabled Epson to increase efficiency, improve customer service, and significantly reduce costs. With Computools’ expertise, Epson has successfully modernised its operations by providing proactive maintenance strategies, streamlining procurement processes, and increasing customer satisfaction.

IMPACT

The ReadyInk System – the system that monitors the ink level in eligible printers in real time and automatically notifies users and resellers of the need to refill the cartridges. The system also orders necessary cartridges and arranges their delivery to the store or the user’s door. Customers can now seamlessly order and receive ink cartridges, eliminating printing disruptions and fostering a positive user experience. This highlights the efficiency and ease of use of the Readylnk system, demonstrating that customers can quickly and easily obtain the ink they need, minimising downtime and frustration.

WHY COMPUTOOLS

Epson chose to partner with Computools for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Computools offered a team of experts with extensive experience in backend Java, Oracle database development, and project management, providing the technical expertise needed to overcome Epson’s IT challenges. Additionally, Computools demonstrated a collaborative approach, ensuring seamless cooperation with Epson’s internal IT department. Furthermore, Computools shared Epson’s commitment to innovation, making them an ideal partner for developing cutting-edge solutions. Finally, Computools’ proven track record of delivering results, as evidenced by the impressive project outcomes, cemented its position as a trusted partner for Epson’s critical initiatives.

STORY IN DEPTH

Background

Before implementing Readylnk, Epson faced a significant challenge: ensuring a seamless printing experience for its customers. Empty cartridges could cause disruptions, leading to frustration and potentially impacting customer loyalty.

Approach to solution

Epson’s journey to select a vendor for their critical project involved a thorough and meticulous process. Given the project’s significance and potential impact on Epson’s business, Epson wanted to ensure they partnered with the right team. Epson initiated the vendor selection process by identifying their project’s requirements and goals and conducting extensive market research to identify potential vendors.
To ensure transparency and clarity, the company prepared a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP) outlining its project’s scope, objectives, and expectations. After a rigorous evaluation process, Epson chose Computools as their trusted partner for several compelling reasons:

  • Industry expertise
  • Technical excellence
  • Collaborative approach
  • Proven results

In choosing Computools, Epson recognised a partner that met their technical needs and shared their commitment to innovation and excellence.

Computools role

To complete this time-sensitive, high-priority project, Epson’s tech leaders entrusted Computools with scaling the internal IT department. Based on an expertise-based talent evaluation of our software engineers, we assembled the team to complement Epson’s in-house development talent. Seamless cooperation ensured the project was completed on time with zero compromises on performance and stability.

Key decisions and outcomes

A well-structured system of interaction ensured constant alignment and collaboration between the teams, resulting in the completion of all tasks in accordance with the client’s requirements and preferences. Current arrangements include ongoing support, maintenance, and potential further collaboration to enhance and expand the IT solutions developed.

Design

When working on product design, we primarily develop its architecture, as this greatly influences how the design will be built in the future and how ways of promoting and upgrading the product will be organised.

USER PERSONA → SITE MAP → WIREFRAMES → USER INTERFACE
epson user persona

USER PERSONA

Understanding the target audience's needs and preferences.

epson site map

SITE MAP

Structuring the website's layout and navigation.

epson wireframes

WIREFRAMES

Creating visual blueprints for web page layouts.

epson user interface

USER INTERFACE

Designing the website's user-friendly visual elements.

DIGITAL PLATFORM & TECHNOLOGY

PROJECT MANAGEMENT METHODOLOGY

The adoption of the Scrum project management methodology drove the successful execution of the Epson project in collaboration with Computools. At the heart of the project was a sprint-based approach. The project was organised into fixed-duration sprints, typically lasting two to four weeks. This allowed for the efficient planning and execution of tasks within defined timeframes. Daily Scrum meetings, or stand-ups, were conducted to review progress, discuss challenges, and ensure alignment among team members.

Scrum

PROJECT TIMELINE

epson project timeline

WHAT OUR CLIENT SAID

Epson is committed to providing our customers with a seamless and hassle-free printing experience. The Readylnk system, developed in partnership with Computools, has revolutionised how we manage ink supplies and interact with our customers. We have seen a significant increase in customer satisfaction and a boost in recurring revenue. We are confident that this innovative solution will continue to drive growth and success for Epson in the future.

CONTACT US

Ready to transform your business with innovative IT solutions? Reach us at info@computools.com

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