BMPA’s STB forum discusses software compliance and Mazda’s journey

Kotak’s presentation was an eye-opener for the STB members. His session shed light on the aspects one should understand and consider complying with the software licensing agreements and how to manage the same. Kotak said, “Three things need to be done, if printers are to avoid legal action- understand software compliance, self-audit within their organisation, procure licenses if not procured and importantly, learn to make use of open source alternatives.”

Kotak gave an exhaustive presentation on helpful tips on how to self audit use of software within your company. His presentation was aimed at putting forth the challenges faced by the software owner in managing software complaince.

The important lesson that filtered out of the session was the importance of software compliance and how ignoring the same can lead to legal problems and unwanted burdening of cost. He stressed on the fact to consider switching to partially paid, if not completely free software.

The second talk was Phiroz Havaldar's experience in digital and photobook printing at Mazda Imaging. He spoke about Mazda's journey and discussed the ups and downs faced with the Indigo 10000 and how the early mover advantage has transformed his business in terms on quantity conversion and exploring new markets. 

Mazda, which has been revolutionising the photo printing business in India since 1982, made its debut into digital in 2006 with the installation of India’s first Indigo 3050. In 2008, the company invested in a HP Indigo 5500 as a part of its expansion in Ahmedabad. In June 2013, the company moved into the B2 (29 inch wide) digital space with installation of India’s first HP Indigo 10000 press, thus leveraging the first mover advantage.

The important thing learnt from his talk was, companies need to realise the changing times and have to be ahead of the competition by adopting new ideas and solutions for the end customer.