Between past and future, the xerographic revolution
In the heart of Queens, New York, in October 1938, an invention was born that would revolutionize the way we interact with information. American physicist Chester Carlson invented electrophotography, paving the way for the development of photocopying. This modest but significant feat was also behind the transformation of the Haloid Company of Rochester, N.Y. – a small photo paper company – into a major printer. – a small photo paper company – into a multinational colossus synonymous with office copying and printing: Xerox Corporation.
From idea to invention: the path of a visionary
The history of xerography began with its creator’s desire to simplify and reduce the cost of duplicating documents. It was a journey fraught with pitfalls and challenges, so much so that it took no less than 10 years to find a company willing to develop his invention. At the end of the 1940s, the Haloid Company saw the disruptive potential of this technology and the first photocopier was developed: the Xerox Model A. This was the start of a successful adventure that led the company to change its name to Haloid Xerox and finally to the famous Xerox Corporation.
Carlson’s early experiments were modest. His work was carried out first in his kitchen, then in a small makeshift laboratory in Astoria. The real breakthrough came when he and his assistant, the physicist Otto Kornei, succeeded in transferring an image onto a sulfur-coated plate using an electrostatic charge. The first photocopier was born. This process, patented four years later, marked the beginning of xerography. In 1947, the patent was acquired by the Haloid Company, New York-based manufacturers of photo paper.
The rise of the Xerox Corporation
Twelve years of research under the aegis of Joseph C. Wilson, president of Haloid, followed, with the company investing every available dollar in the development and marketing of Carlson’s unproven invention. Several initial machine versions were created, enabling further research. This risk, requiring considerable investment, marked a major strategic shift: risk-taking became an intrinsic characteristic of Xerox, catalyzing its sense of the quest for progress and its growth.
The introduction of the Xerox 914 in 1959 marked a decisive step for Haloid Xerox. Indeed, it was an instant success: the first office copier to use xerography to rapidly produce copies on plain paper, the Xerox 914 revolutionized the world of work and established xerography as a key technology of the information age.
Xerox at the digital forefront
From its earliest successes, Xerox has managed to evolve over time. The company has succeeded in transforming itself to meet the ever-changing needs of the digital age. Its portfolio of technologies and services has expanded and diversified considerably, far beyond copying alone.
The growing role of document management
Document management in digital workspaces is becoming increasingly important. Xerox is aware of this phenomenon, and has responded by developing a range of advanced solutions designed to enable effective document management. These solutions include Enterprise Content Management (ECM) systems that help organizations capture, store, activate, manage, analyze and automate their content, and retrieve information while keeping sensitive data secure.
Xerox is also innovating in the fields of business process automation (BPM) and intelligent document automation. Artificial intelligence is used to automate routine document processes, reducing errors and increasing efficiency.
Printing in the digital age
Xerox has not abandoned its core business. Rather, its aim has been to reinvent it for the digital age. The company has developed and launched highly sophisticated printers and copiers that guarantee superior print quality, improved connectivity, enhanced security features and user-friendly integration with corporate networks and cloud systems.
Color printing techniques, such as the iGen printing system, have revolutionized digital printing by offering exceptional quality and flexibility, enabling applications such as print-on-demand and mass customization.
Quest for sustainability and environmental responsibility
Several key initiatives to strengthen Xerox’s sustainability and environmental responsibility have been taken over the years. These efforts reflect the brand’s commitment to integrating eco-responsible practices throughout its operations. Here are just a few examples of these initiatives:
A comprehensive recycling program
Xerox has created and launched a return and recycling program for its consumables, such as toner cartridges and drum units. This program encourages customers to return these items free of charge, enabling virtually 100% of returned materials to be recycled or reused. In so doing, the company reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill, and lowers its environmental impact.
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through continuous improvements in the energy efficiency of its products and operations is another of Xerox’s missions. The company has invested in green technologies for its manufacturing facilities and offices, including the use of renewable energies and more efficient heating and cooling systems.
Development of products designed for eco-efficiency
Xerox prides itself on developing products designed to consume less energy and reduce waste. An important customer benefit. Many of the brand’s new copiers and printers are ENERGY STAR certified, a label that guarantees they meet strict energy efficiency standards. In addition, Xerox has developed solid ink technology, which produces less waste than traditional toner cartridges and offers a greener alternative.
Component reuse initiatives
Another Xerox priority is to design products using components that can be easily dismantled and reused in new equipment. This not only extends the life of the materials used, but also reduces the need for new resources, thus supporting the circular economy.
Environmental education and awareness
Xerox employees and stakeholders benefit from training programs focused on the importance of sustainability. These training programs aim to raise awareness of environmental best practices, at both personal and professional levels, and to encourage a corporate culture focused on environmental responsibility.
Societal contributions and positive role
Beyond technology and innovation, Xerox strives to play a positive role in society. The company supports a wide range of educational and community initiatives. In doing so, it contributes to programs that promote innovation, education and health in less privileged communities. Xerox is aware that its responsibility goes far beyond profit, and includes the well-being of the communities in which it operates.
Conclusion: review and outlook
The evolution of Xerox from the initial invention of xerography to its current developments in the digital field illustrates the major role played by the company in terms of research and development. Over the decades, Xerox has managed not only to adapt to technological change, but also to anticipate it – and even initiate it – positioning itself as a key player in the field of document management and digital communication solutions.
Beyond that, by consciously and voluntarily integrating sustainable practices into its operations, Xerox demonstrates its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its products and manufacturing processes. These efforts are in line with a global sustainability policy that reflects heightened environmental awareness at both corporate and community levels.
Xerox’s ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability underlines its ability to evolve while remaining true to its core values of finding solutions that benefit both users – its customers – and the planet. Today, as the company moves forward into an increasingly digitized and connected era, its history and achievements continue to have a significant impact on the world of technology.
