Based on Sharp’s proven Open System Architecture (OSA) and Business IT Systems’ (BITS) Callisto Managed Scan technology it is now possible to simply and effectively scan and store a document in one easy operation effected right at the point of scanning on the Sharp multifunctional printer (MFP).

SIMS .netä is an Information Management System (IMS) provided by Capita Children’s Services designed specifically for schools to tackle issues such as reducing workload and improving efficiency in every area of school life by automating many of the tasks undertaken by teachers and administrative staff each day.

The Scan2SIMS, SIMS .netä connector has been developed by Digital Link Solutions (DLS) - a Capita Children’s Services partner, for the BITS Callisto Managed Scan application. This combined solution is available on all Sharp multifunctional printers (MFPs) to help simplify the entry, storage and retrieval of electronic data in the busy education environment.

More than 22,000 UK primary, secondary and special schools currently run SIMS .net and the Scan2SIMS connector can form an important part of the system, making the scanning and accurate filing of confidential student and staff documentation quick and easy. Paper records and clutter are eliminated and data can be efficiently scanned and archived for instant retrieval by authorised personnel.

Scan2SIMS from DLS enables the user to scan a paper document and ‘attach it’ directly to a specific student’s record in the SIMS .net database, via the MFP’s LCD touch sensitive control screen.

“Accurately filing paper records in an electronic system means reduced paper retention and reliable data retrieval for these all important children’s records,” said Chris Hale, product manager solutions, Sharp Electronics (UK) Ltd.  “The SIMS .net connector tool enhances Sharp’s MFP offering to the education sector by enabling schools to manage this electronic information more efficiently and effectively.

“By selecting the filing criteria and entering any accompanying notes at the time of scanning we both simplify the workflow of the school admin staff and ensure increased accuracy of the stored information.”

About Sharp Corporation
 
Founded in 1912, Sharp Electronics is a leading developer and manufacturer of electronic equipment, appliances and components for the consumer and business markets, with a key focus on LCD TVs, solar systems and copier/printer solutions.  It can claim one of the widest portfolios of business and lifestyle products under a single brand name in the world.  The Corporation employs 47,750 people, of which nearly half are employed outside Japan. It operates in 30 countries and its products are distributed to 164 countries worldwide. As of March 2007, annual turnover is in excess of Yen 3,100 billion.  Sharp supports the development of environmentally friendly products and is listed on the FTSE4Good Global Index.  With its UK head office based at Stockley Park, near Heathrow, West London, Sharp Electronics (UK) Ltd employs approximately 220 people within its Consumer Electronics and Business Product Divisions.  Annual UK turnover in 2005/6 was more than £209m.

About BITS

Business I.T. Systems Ltd was formed in 1990, initially as a software house, targeted at developing database applications for the Construction industry. During the mid 1990’s, the focus changed, adding software, hardware and network support to the company’s portfolio.

In 1997, the company expanded, adding expertise to its staff in the print and printer management arena. This additional expertise has been used to develop our flagship product "Callisto". Healthy growth has allowed us to focus on both the education market and the digital and networked printing environment, providing specialised skills in these areas, whilst continuing to support our clients in the small business arena. Utilising both in house developed software and best of breed products, we are able to ensure our clients always receive the best possible solution.

About DLS

Formed in 2007 as a sister company to BITS and based in Surrey, Digital Link Solutions Ltd have embarked on an ambitious program of development of the SIMS .net platform software, used extensively in the Education sector of the UK.

Capitalising our extensive staff experience in the Education sector over the previous 15 years, products such as Scan2SIMS and MessageHome are being used by schools and showing the benefits that can be accrued, such as single point of entry and less time for office staff to perform certain tasks.

Utilising both in house developed software and best of breed products, such as those from Sharp Electronics, we are able to ensure that our Resellers and Clients are always in receipt of the best possible solution.