The role and importance of document handling has begun to be better understood, and effective documenting and handling of information has transformed the old-style image of the stand-alone photocopier in the corner of the office. Modern state of the art business machines can convert plain paper into output, and this can be marketed as a value adding service for customers who are prepared to outsource the exercise.

As digital copiers have come into prominence, the way in which copiers are used has changed and the difference between printer and copier has begun to be eroded. Most offices are considering putting copiers and printers on line, and the value to a business of this capability is immense.

This shift in the whole environment has brought many changes to businesses in the document-handling industry, and their service operations have had to change significantly, in structure and culture, to effectively compete and deliver the type and level of service now demanded by customers.