At the start of 2015, about 187 million households the world over still relied on analogue cables. While the statistic might seem significant, it is small compared to over a billion households wired for digital. Individuals and corporations invariably seek easier and cheaper ways of doing things, hence the fast-paced technological progress. So, why not expect this from franking machines as well?
You probably know the savings gained by using a franking machine over traditional stamps. But are you aware of making the switch to a digital franking machine?
Why go digital at all?
The world around us is making the digital drift from the analogue system. There is a rising demand for cloud services, AI, ML and other advanced technologies. Given these trends, corporations may have outgrown analogue franking equipment. This means that enterprises are scraping by with obsolete technology, thus hindering business growth and prospects and inevitably causing wastage of time and money.
Making the shift: Analogue to Digital franking machines
Analogue franking machines rely on old-fashioned phone lines. These telephone line connections are often slow and unreliable to begin with; add to this the rental cost of the line.
With the digital system, franking machines connect directly to the internet, using either a LAN or Wi-Fi connection. The internet connection renders quicker downloads and speedy re-crediting. Also, the continuous or ongoing connection minimises interruptions and disruptions during work.
The top reasons and benefits of going digital
Cost
First and foremost is the cost. Note that connecting through an analogue phone line incurs a monthly rental fee and other charges, whereas a digital franking machine connects to the internet. Individuals and corporations already paying for broadband internet need not incur additional charges. So, multiple functions can get fulfilled using the same internet connection. With that said, you can ditch the analogue lines through a shift to the digital machine.
Speed
There is no surprise! Digital franking machines are faster and more convenient compared to the analogue system. They shall considerably speed up the mailing and shipping processes. Putting things into context, with an analogue machine, it can take up to an hour to download software and postal rate updates using the internet. However, the digital equipment will complete the said task within a few minutes. With this system, time and money get saved, and so is the frustration over delays.
Reliability
A digital connection delivers faster service and is also more constant and reliable. There are lesser chances of the internet connection getting lost. If it does get lost or weak, there is no delay as the download shall begin right back from where it got stalled. With an analogue connection, the download restarts from the beginning if there is a lost connection. Also, individuals and enterprises can pause and resume the progress if need be, say due to slower connectivity.
Space and Connectivity
As established, digital franking machines connect through the internet. What this does is that it renders flexibility. With wireless connectivity, the digital franking machine can get moved or shifted. Quite often, the Wi-Fi router and the digital franking equipment get positioned in different rooms without hampering productivity. Of course, it must be within the stipulated radius.
Customers and users relying on the analogue system often struggle to find space for their machines. The reason is that they need to be in proximity to the phone lines. If not available, then the franking machines get carried near the fax machines every time postage needs to get added. Also, the franking equipment gets reinstalled before the mailings get completed.
Now, imagine the plight of corporations that are postage-heavy, that are dealing in hundreds of postages and packages daily. The analogue system shall lead to considerable money and time wastage.
Mailmark-ready and Proofing
A considerable benefit of going digital is mailmark-ready and proofing. For instance, by using a machine-readable 2D barcode, corporations get an added layer of safety and security. The barcode carries the information about the user and the mail that gets sent. This renders accountability and transparency. Today, these are vital aspects of conducting business.
User account/PIN protection
Individuals and enterprises can monitor and track the post and access analytics and reports. What’s more, going digital offers user account or PIN protection. What this does is that it provides control over accessibility to the equipment. Also, businesses can impose restrictions over functions for varying staff members. In this light, corporations can further offer permission to use advanced features to only managers and above.
The ultimate benefits are enhanced autonomy and control over franking and a streamlined process for outgoing mail.
Automated Accounting
Transactions through digital franking machines are now trackable and traceable. This provides the much-needed ease and convenience of monitoring the postage meter australia costs at the touch of a button. Also, it enables corporations to adhere to their budgets or make adjustments where necessary. Finally, users can also get a breakdown of the services and prices used.
Marketing and Communications
Many may not be aware, but franking machines can help promote the brand image and goodwill. Digital franking machines enable businesses to use full-colour optimisation to create their corporate slogan, logo and message in a captivating way for the clientele.
At the end of the day
Franking machines do play a vital role in the digital age. What’s more, the digital age is fast-changing how our lives unfold. So, there is a place for digital franking machines today. Individuals and corporations can automatically stamp packages and letters. The best part? They are accessible and operational 24/7. It is akin to having a mini post office. For those contemplating using Quadient franking machines, the MyQuadient online portal renders free access to accounts and expenses management.
