Designed by Ricoh in 2005 for businesses that handle high volumes of paperwork, GlobalScan 2.0 converted hard-copy documents to electronic files that could be saved to a network folder or sent via e-mail. The GlobalScan 2.0 list of feats was amazing then, and GlobalScan continues to impress with increased efficiencies and reduced costs. Thanks to next generation products, the GlobalScan provider of today has eliminated the need for overnight delivery, dedicated scanners and faxing, as well as storage and document handling costs.

Utilizing Ricoh's multifunctional systems, a GlobalScan 2.0 provider can scan a hard copy document and distribute it anywhere in a company, or in the world, in seconds. Consider the following when determining if GlobalScan is right for your workplace:

1. Analyze GlobalScan information to determine if your company could benefit from investing in this technology.

2. Learn how to integrate your current fax software to make GlobalScan fully functional for your business.

3. Find GlobalScan 2.0 specifications to determine if your existing copier is compatible with GlobalScan, or if you would need to purchase a new one.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Analyze the benefits of GlobalScan to determine if your business would benefit from this technology

The sheer reduction in services used and time spent may justify the cost of implementing GlobalScan in your workplace. Your business could reduce or eliminate the use of overnight delivery services, faxing, storage and document handling costs, not to mention the elimination of a fax line and costs of paper and toner, as well as storage and document handling costs. Carefully weigh these benefits against your current costs when reviewing GlobalScan 2.0 information.

I recommend: Ricoh's website allows you to calculate your return on investment, factoring in telephone and copier costs. It will help you determine for yourself if the expenditure would be worthwhile. IKON Office Solutions has a table detailing the specifications and benefits of GlobalScan.

Understand how to integrate your current fax software with that of GlobalScan

There are different steps that must be taken to integrate your fax software with GlobalScan's to take advantage of all its benefits. Ricoh has aligned itself with several document management companies to facilitate the widespread use of GlobalScan's software.

I recommend: Your business can integrate GlobalScan's software with that of Captaris RightFax by following a few simple steps. The results will be a consolidation of all document distribution on your network, providing employees with convenient access to secure documents on the desktop. If your business has certain multi-function products (MFPs) and you wish to add GlobalScan software to them, review SDG's Newsletter to determine if you need to purchase a Java Card Type F.

See if GlobalScan 2.0 is compatible with your current copier or if you need to purchase a new one

GlobalScan's creator, Ricoh, has entered into several partnerships with copier, scanner and fax manufacturers to integrate its product into what already exists in the workplace. Chances are that if you already own a product that can scan, fax and copy, it can work with GlobalScan 2.0 or any of its newer products.

I recommend: Savin lists all of its scanner/copier models that can interface with GlobalScan software. Lanier produces several models that can also work with GlobalScan.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  GlobalScan Workflow Suite, a newer generation product, contains options that can be added to its standard edition. With this product, up to 250 multi-function products on your network can be connected on one GlobalScan server regardless of the manufacturer, thus greatly increasing your ROI.