IDC names Konica Minolta a leader in print transformation
Konica Minolta has been named a worldwide leader in print transformation as part of IDC's MarketScape: Worldwide Print Transformation 2020 Vendor Assessment.
Konica Minolta says IDC's recognition is confirmation of its 'strong portfolio', which supports customers in growing their digital maturity.
As part of the accolade, IDC specified in a report that, while Konica Minolta is typically perceived as an MFP/printer vendor, it had made 'considerable progress' in pivoting towards managed services which deliver workplace solutions.
The report read, "Konica Minolta's product evolution involves a continuum of products and services including hardware, managed services, and business process automation integrated into an Intelligent Connected Workplace.
Konica Minolta Australia chairman and managing director Yohei Konaka says IDC's acknowledgement of its achievements was indicative of the versatility of not only Konica Minolta, but many other organisations in the face of a global pandemic.
"COVID-19 and the events that have occurred throughout 2020 have accelerated digital requirements and opportunities for customers as the world stumbled through the biggest work-from-home experiment ever seen, with a focus on business continuity and resilience," says Konaka.
"The distributed workforce is here to stay, and a more connected and digital workforce will be required in the future.
"Konica Minolta has a role to play in helping customers realise an Intelligent Connected Workplace to better serve their own employees so they in-turn can serve their customers.
In its report, IDC also acknowledged Konica Minolta's consideration of not only technology trends of the day but also a more comprehensive outlook of generational workforce and overarching sociological shifts.
The report also reads: "[Konica Minolta] believes that technology needs to be human-centred, so understanding the motivations, wants, and needs of the worker is essential.
"The company will focus on the 'why' when implementing new technology and not just the 'how'. As part of this strategy, Konica Minolta is pursuing a host of nonprint-related offerings, some of which are based on partner-delivered solutions and others that are based on homegrown technologies.
The news comes a month after Konica Minolta announced its establishment of a direct presence in New Zealand, following a rollout of a new 'direct operation' in the country.
The development has resulted in the formation of Konica Minolta Business Solutions New Zealand Limited (Konica Minolta New Zealand), which will be led by incoming managing director Eric Holtsmark.
"There is a huge opportunity in New Zealand made possible by a long history of success of the Konica Minolta brand in the region," says Holtsmark.
"This was largely driven by channel partners and customers that are dedicated users of Konica Minolta technology. Opening a direct operation will provide a way for existing, loyal users to directly access Konica Minolta's range of technology and solutions.
