Xplor walks the high-tech talk at the Australian Technology Park

A small but dedicated turnout of industry professionals attended the New Frontiers seminar at the Fuji Xerox facility on Friday. They came to hear a full programme of presentations that highlighted the practical applications of customised communication technology in the marketplace of tomorrow.

While mainly centred on transaction printing – the production of bills and statements – the sector is expanding its focus to the commercial world of personalised direct marketing print. From security printing and document protection to the requirements of in-plant facilities in education providers, Xplor Asia Pacific lived up to its reputation as a source of advanced information.

Anni Rowland-Campbell of Fuji Xerox delivered the key presentation when she highlighted a number of customised projects currently being undertaken in Australia. These include a number of hosted solutions an the work being undertaken to more fully understand the way end users are now driving communication activities.

Mark Worsley, ceo of Printsoft group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Australia Post, gave an enlivening presentation on the way the decision was made to take over the software company. The former ‘postie’s’ enthusiasm for the future of the company was infectious.

The remarkable Col Bruce of the University of Queensland told some home truths from the print on demand environment. As one of the most innovative solution developers in the country his presentation was worth the price of admission in itself.

Xplor Asia Pacific is currently promoting the inaugural tour to China Print 06 in Shanghai next year and was fortunate to have on hand Roger Morgan, who is transformed into an old China hand courtesy of his 18 months setting up the Fuji Xerox Epicentre in Shanghai. No one knows the dynamics of Australian involvement in China’s print communications industry better than Roger.

The China tour is part of a worldwide Xplor convergence n Shanghai next year, part of the growing focus on one of the most exciting market opportunities. Interested industry professionals can find out more from Jenny Boden admin@xplor.org.au