IDC: Mobile workforce to demand print capabilities from mobile devices

By eGov Innovation Editors | Jun 1, 2011

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MASSACHUSSETS –  New research from the International Data Corporation (IDC) showed that the rapidly expanding mobile worker population, the proliferation of smartphones and media tablets, and the explosion of mobile apps will converge to drive demand for mobile printing solutions over the next five to ten years.

IDC's research also showed that smartphone users are more likely to report year-over-year increases in their print volume, whereas non-users are more likely to report flat or decreased print volume.

"A print solution will be a 'must have' for mobile users expecting the ability to print from their handheld devices," said Holly Muscolino, research director, Hardcopy Peripherals: Software and Services. "But the market is young and the plethora and variety of solutions has been very confusing to both hardcopy device vendors and end users, with no clear-cut standards emerging."

The IDC study also showed that mobile printing benefits traveling professionals and workers who need to print at different locations within an organization's own campus or facilities. This provides a new revenue stream for hotels, airport lounges, coffee shops, libraries, and other locations that serve mobile workers.