The Challenge
The University knew it needed a cost-effective print network to more efficiently manage student paper needs. With such a network – and associated cost tracking – the school’s OIT Department hoped to reduce paper waste, and bring down printing costs.
The Solution
Xerox stepped in with a two-fold print network solution for Notre Dame. First, due diligence: we monitored student printing needs to determine the best solution for the job. Then we put the network solution in place – installing multiple “print clusters” around campus, using Xerox Phaser™ printers and Pharos Uniprint® network software. Under the new network setup, students electronically send their documents to a nearby cluster for printing. Then, at their convenience, they simply walk to the cluster location, log in at a “computer release station,” and print their documents.
For cost containment, each student receives a reasonable print quota at the beginning of the semester. For any needs above quota, the student has the option to pay for them out of pocket.
The network solution has been so successful that the school has expanded the “cluster” concept beyond campus buildings to residence halls – negating the need for students to leave their dorm buildings. After a pilot received rave reviews, the “dorm print cluster” program was rolled out to every dorm across the Notre Dame campus.
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The Results
Shortly after the student print network was installed, the University realized a 60 percent reduction in print waste, as well as a 20 percent savings in paper and consumables costs.
In addition, many of the new printers feature auto-duplexing (printing on both sides of a sheet), which not only further reduces waste, but also facilitates sustainability and environmental consciousness.
Today, the program is enhanced with the addition of color print capabilities, which are made available to students within their existing print quota.
