Kodak Alaris Partners with Google to Extend Workflows

The Internet of Things: Just a Fad or Worth the Buzz?

Most organizations already have workflow processes in place that they are not going to replace simply because new services are available in the cloud. But they will be open to extending those existing processes, enabling them to better leverage cloud services.

With that goal in mind, Kodak Alaris at the 2016 CES conference announced this week that it is partnering with Google to integrate its document management software with Google’s Brillo operating system for embedded systems and Google Weave communications services for Internet of Things (IoT) devices, delivered via the cloud.

Susheel John, category director for distributed capture within the Information Management Division of Kodak Alaris, says under the terms of the alliance, developers will be able to make use of TWAIN Direct interfaces to connect scanners directly to Google Weave via the Google Brillo software that provides the framework for securing those devices. Those TWAIN Direct interfaces eliminate the need for separate drivers for every device invoking the scanner, says John.

The end result, says John, is the ability to securely provide shared access to scanners regardless of where they happen to be located. Kodak Alaris, adds John, envisions insurance agents, for example, taking advantage of scanners in any office to capture data that can be safely shared within the context of an existing workflow process. Longer term, however, Kodak Alaris is working on incorporating artificial intelligence to automate those workflows even further.

Obviously, the degree to which organizations will extend their existing workflows using IoT and AI services remains to be seen. But over time, organizations should expect those workflows to be dramatically transformed. The real challenge is going to be accomplishing that transformation in a way that the organization can absorb, from a cultural perspective.