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T/R Systems and Canon Team to Offer Digital StoreFront

Press release from the issuing company

ATLANTA--May 6, 2003-- T/R SYSTEMS, INC., a leader in developing innovative solutions for the management and production of digital documents, and Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc., a leader in networked imaging systems, announced today the availability through Canon of Digital StoreFront, T/R Systems' fully automated web storefront solution. Designed to increase competitiveness and productivity for in-plants and on-demand printers, Digital StoreFront simplifies the job submission and proofing process, automates quoting and maximizes device utilization and job turnaround. Today's announcement was made at the start of the 2003 Canon Digital Solution Forum, which is being held at McCormick Place in Chicago through May 7, 2003. The event is an annual showcase of Canon's technological leadership and strategic vision for the future, and includes participation by several of Canon's development partners. "We are excited that we are able to expand Digital StoreFront into new distribution channels, particularly with Canon," said Michael Kohlsdorf, President and CEO of T/R Systems. "This is a breakthrough product for the print service provider that will enhance their ability to offer a broader set of customer services." Digital StoreFront is a customizable software solution that print providers own, host and control. The business rules based model allows service providers to modify their storefront as needed, and print center hosting ensures the confidentiality of customer information. Since Digital StoreFront is not based on an Application Service Provider (ASP) system, there are no hosting or transaction fees. Digital StoreFront's easy-to-use, fully automated processes allow customers to securely submit native files over the Internet. The documents are automatically converted into PDF so the customer can proof them immediately. The customer then provides specifications for the job and Digital StoreFront can generate an on-line quote and order confirmation. Subsequently, a job ticket is created and the file is submitted into the print provider's workflow. To increase printing productivity, Digital StoreFront integrates with a wide range of printing systems, including the MicroPress by T/R Systems. "This is not only an excellent opportunity for Canon to increase the types of services we offer to our customers," said Janet Cain, Director, Product Marketing and Training, Canon U.S.A. Production Systems. "This is also an excellent opportunity for us to reach a more diverse group of customers. Digital StoreFront makes it possible for us to offer print center operators an opportunity to solve more demanding workflow issues." Digital StoreFront's complete automation capabilities reduce the production cycle, decrease the opportunity for error and eliminate redundant data entry in the print shop. Employee intervention is not necessary for document conversion, nor is it needed for the creation of on-line proofs, quotes, job tickets or job status information. Files can be either routed to production devices without operator intervention or held for scheduling. Billing information can be routed to billing and accounting systems to ensure accuracy. Digital StoreFront's broad range of standard and optional capabilities uniquely meet the needs of on demand print centers, as well as the needs of their customers. Pricing for Digital StoreFront is based on model and options selected. Digital StoreFront is available through authorized Canon USA dealers and subsidiaries.