Customized User Interfaces for Multi Function Printers

An MFP (Multi Function Printer), is an office machine which incorporates the functionality of multiple devices in one, so as to have a smaller footprint in a home or small business setting, or to provide centralized document management/distribution/production in a large-office setting. A typical MFP may act as a combination of some or all of the devices like printer, scanner, photocopier, fax and E-mail.

By their nature, MFPs are complex devices. Many MFPs now include high resolution screens and other user interface aids. Generally, most office MFPs contain advanced LCD panels resembling a custom computer-like user interface.

Being very complex devices, MFPs require efficient and user friendly interface. The ease of use of an MFP depends entirely on how good the user interface is? Thus it becomes absolutely important that it has an interactive and easy to use user interface.

Multi Function Printers range from limited user interface to full user interfaces similar to desktop operating systems. If you have used any of the Multi Function Printers then you must be familiar with the rich graphic displays that guide you or let you choose various options to control the operation of the device. There should be some way using which the end user can customize the user interface depending on his or her specific requirements.

EmPresent provides layout editor where the end user is provided with UI screens for MFP. End user can use these screens directly or customize these screen layouts as per the requirements. EmPresent is widely used as a UI designer for MFP. In addition to this, EmPresent can also be customized (on need basis) to provide the ability for the user to develop the software to communicate with the MFP through software development kit. Empresent is also widely used as UI designer for IFE (In-Flight Entertainment).

About the Author: Mike Nicholson