Flexiprint - Web-Based Print-On-Demand System

Ben Starr, Web Architect, Web Solutions, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, 4000. Email: b.starr@qut.edu.au

Keywords

Flexiprint, Print, Web-Based, Print-On-Demand, Course Materials, University, Students, Java, J2EE, Web Services, Portable Document Format, PDF

Abstract

Flexiprint is a web-based print-on-demand system that allows Queensland University of Technology students to compile print jobs of course materials online. Print jobs can be collected from printing centres on three campuses or posted to the student. Through its online teaching system and copyright course materials database the University gradually moved towards providing students with digitised course materials online. This created the requirement for a convenient means for students to print digitised course materials that would also preferably utilise the University bulk printing facilities. The key benefits of Flexiprint to students are convenience and cost saving. The key benefits to the University are improved service to students and better utilisation and management of the University bulk printing facilities. Flexiprint is implemented in Java J2EE and uses an Oracle Database. Web Service technology is used to interface with document sources and documents are stored in a local cache in PDF format.