Base adopts greener technology

Cannon Image Runner 3230 Multifunction device is one of many different devices that can be ordered through Base Information Services.

Base Information Services (BIS) has a great idea to save CFB Esquimalt money while improving efficiency. The plan is to switch out the single printer and the lone fax machine for a “Multifunction Device”.

This piece of technology is a colour printer, scanner, copier and fax machine combined, with a hard drive to save files.

Neil Grieg from BIS is heading the effort to convert both ships and shore units to the Multifunction Device, which will be leased with all maintenance included.

“It’s such a simple solution to an expanding inventory of devices that cost electricity, and require different proprietary cartridges. By letting go of the idea of having a printer on your desk, and by taking an extra few steps, you are saving more money than people realize,” he says.

Last year, BIS spent $80,000 on toner for the various devices in its office. The estimated cost savings of replacing eight printers with a Multifunction Device for three years is $22,770.87.

The Canadian Armed Forces is required to conform to the Government of Canada’s Greening Initiative, which includes the Printer Reduction Strategy. The target is to achieve a ratio of eight people to one printer.

The conversion has already started with HMC Ships Winnipeg, Regina and Vancouver, and in the shore offices of Formation Technical Authority and the Base Commander.

“We used to have eight printers to 12 people and at any given time one would be out of supplies. Now we have one multifunction device on each floor instead of printers and it works great,” says Michael Morrison, Base Chief of Staff. “Having a multifunction device nearby makes it even easier to manage records effectively”

The new technology has the capability to scan documents that can be accessed from a web link, which improves records management.

Units interested in transferring to a Multifunction Device should submit a service request on the BIS homepage.

 – SLt Rudee Hastie, Base Public Affairs