EFI CEO Guy Gecht has opened the annual EFI Connect Conference 2017 in Las Vegas by urging print companies to look for opportunities in their business, reports Bruce Craig direct from the event.
Gecht’s keynote presentation included his thoughts on some of the big technological revolutions that have affected us all, and one whose influence on us will continue to increase: artificial intelligence. He recounted the recent evolution of technology, moving from personal computers, through the internet, mobile life and now AI.
For EFI and the print industry, this next wave of advanced technology has already impacted. For example, some ERP and MIS workflow products developed by EFI learn to be more efficient as they track business operations.
Gecht said, “As with the developments we have all seen with personal computers and mobile technology, artificial intelligence promises to create more opportunities. In print, it can drive preventive diagnostics and predictive maintenance, which helps our customers improve their top and bottom lines.”
Later in the day, print veteran and Xerox chief executive Jeff Jacobson joined Gecht for a Fireside chat session. The company leaders shared their thoughts on business success and some personal stories. Gecht will also host Quad/Graphics chief executive Joel Quadracci for a similar talk.
Now in its 17th year, the conference welcomes customers from 37 countries, and will host over 200 sessions over the next few days. EFI will debut its largest soft-signage printer and showcase new LED, roll-to-roll printers as well as its Fiery technology.
Connect also features new technologies and exhibits in its solutions centre from EFI partners, including: 3M, Berger Textiles; Canon; Duplo; Enfocus; Esko; KDX America; Klieverik; Kodak; Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc.; NextWave; The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation; Print ReLeaf; Progress Software Corp.; Ricoh Americas Corp.; Riso; Xerox and Zünd.
Comment below to have your say on this story.
If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.
Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter