Published on: July 06, 2022
Will Digital Signatures Replace Printers? A Look at the Time Principle
With the rapid push to move everything to the cloud and replace tangible objects with digital assets, I’ve been pondering whether printers still have a place in the modern world. The answer isn’t static—it changes depending on the context. But here’s my take.
I personally believe there will always be a place for printing devices. That said, the technology is outdated and in need of a major upgrade. This upgrade should come in the form of innovation—but unfortunately, most major manufacturers focus on the numbers, not creative solutions.
Digital Signatures
Digital signing is a neat feature that speeds up the process of getting documents signed. But let’s think critically—does it serve the signer, or the person requesting the signature?
Even with digital signatures, the signer may still need a physical copy for personal records. Sure, you can keep it in your email, but what happens when you need to verify something? Often, you’ll still have to print it to show someone—or in legal scenarios, a court may require a tangible copy for evidence.
So, if governing bodies still require physical documents, can digital signatures ever fully replace printers?
Email and Traditional Mail
Think back—how did you send letters before email? Maybe you typed it, printed it, and mailed it. Or maybe, as a child, you handwrote a card to grandma. The point is, tangible documents have always played a role in communication.
Spam and Marketing
Even in the digital age, spam mail exists. Direct mail marketing still relies on physical materials—so printers remain essential to this day.
Conclusion
The rate at which digital replaces on-premise printing is essentially a null question. Digital tools are useful, but they cannot fully replace tangible objects. Proof, verification, and legal requirements still demand physical copies. In essence, the printer’s role is irreplaceable in many situations, no matter how advanced digital technology becomes.
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