Big ideas, small solutions: Why getting print right still matters in the AEC industry

The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry relies on print. From sharing schedules, to keeping reports, to showcasing the newest concept sketches – print is the backbone that keeps the industry running smoothly.

For many organisations, the importance of producing physical, business-quality collateral to share with their customers can even be a differentiating factor to set them apart from competitors within an increasingly crowded market. And modern printers have evolved to respond to new needs. Now, they aren’t solely used for their primary purpose, but also to scan and securely save sensitive documents, or share them between devices with ease.

Choosing the right printing solution can therefore have a huge impact on an organisation – where, no matter how big or small the business itself, the quality and efficiency of a solution can have a huge impact on both productivity and reputation.

Delivering maximum impact, in small spaces

In space-strapped offices, there’s often no room for industrial-sized printers. But that doesn’t mean that architects, engineers and other AEC professionals don’t require the same high-quality results on a smaller scale.

Marrying the need for business quality with the challenge of preserving workspace can mean some businesses struggle to source printing solutions that can ‘do it all’ – either settling for lower quality prints, or larger machines which limit their ability to maximise space within the office environment.

As a longtime partner of AEC businesses, Canon understands the industry’s priorities. The  MAXIFY GX6050 solution, for example, offers a compact footprint (only 399 x 410 x 254 mm) without compromising on print quality. For AEC businesses that require high-resolution scans and speedy deliverables, high-performance devices such as this can offer scans of 1,200 x 1,200 dots per inch (dpi) and can print pages in as little as seven seconds. Compact, undeniably cost-effective and providing business-critical quality, modern devices are now being designed with AEC professionals in mind.

Performing reliably, and cost-effectively

It’s no secret that the AEC industry has weathered some tough times in recent years. From the supply chain disruption surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, to the labour shortages predicted to increasingly affect a large number of firms in the coming years.

It’s no surprise, then, that cost-conscious solutions are rising to the front of the pack, as AEC organisations seek to protect their bottom lines from further disruption.

This was a key factor behind the development of Canon’s MAXIFY GX6050 device, which delivers a 90% average savings on the total cost of ownership when compared to the top 10 laser and inkjet printers*. Providing print, copy, scan and cloud link functions, multi-function devices allow businesses to scan and share across multiple devices securely. Plus, refillable ink helps AEC offices print all the contracts and documents they need in the most cost-effective and efficient way.

Understanding the industry

The fluctuating nature of both the print and AEC industries means that new solutions, and new needs, surface regularly. Choosing the correct solution can therefore feel tricky, as organisations are left to sift through a huge number of options in search of their ‘perfect fit’.

That’s why most organisations opt for a trusted name. Print solution companies with a reputation for producing high quality, durable machines, which require little maintenance to continually operate at a high level and save the business money in the long term. And a trusted name is exactly what Canon provides.

Canon is proud to have fostered strong partnerships within the AEC industry. With a reputation for producing high-quality and trustworthy solutions that match all needs, Canon has partnered alongside the likes of RIBA and The Architect’s Journal – showcasing our commitment to delivering for industry professionals.

Getting print right

Misconceptions around the AEC industry – such as that organisations no longer rely on print, that they have experienced a boom of liquid cash flow, or that they’re all occupying huge offices – still abound. It’s one reason why it’s so vital to find partnerships built on equal understanding. Only then can you find a solution that truly meets your office needs.

It’s time for the AEC industry to embrace the benefits of better print and improve experience and output for professionals and customers alike.