While simple Web-to-print applications are a cornerstone of e-enablement, there are other aspects of e-enablement that are rapidly becoming mainstream. InfoTrends recently released a study entitled e-Enablement: The Future of Graphic Communications. It demonstrates that support for even more complex Web-based multi-channel communications and data management services is becoming critical to business success. Buyers and sellers of print are leveraging these systems to increase automation, improve operational efficiency, remove costs, and enhance the quality and currency of printed materials. In aggregate, print e-business services have expanded beyond simply Web-to-print to a broader multi-channel Web services paradigm, and they are being leveraged by enterprises using internal and external service providers.

Mimeo is a pioneer in online Web-to-print services. The company has historically been known as an organization that prints, binds, and delivers documents from files that are uploaded to its Web site. To start printing, customers simply go to Mimeo.com, upload a document from any application, and then select paper, tab, cover, and binding options. After proofing the exact look of the finished document online, customers select one or more recipients and choose a mail delivery method. Documents submitted by 10:00 pm ET can be delivered the next morning. Online tracking and delivery notification are provided for all orders. The objective is to help time-starved customers and offer a service that lets them send their documents electronically and get the materials efficiently delivered at the point of need.

This past week, I had the opportunity to participate in a marketing event hosted by Mimeo at the Harvard Club in New York City. It was enlightening to see an organization working to reposition the organization while also announcing expanded Web capabilities to meet the needs if its target audience.