Global printer network
From Intelligent Designs
A global printer network would be operated by a company that offers a server and client application that works on Windows PCs, Linux and Macs. The server application would be run by anyone interested in offering printing services. It offers them to configure in detail the prices for different services (color printing, different formats, etc.), and also shows them if other companies in other areas offer the same service for less money via the GPN. The client application would be a driver that operates like any other printer driver and which accesses the server.
When printing a document with this special driver, the user would be given a very simple dialog where they can enter their current location, and a list of GPN-enabled printing services in the area is shown. They choose one of these services, configure the printer settings, and print (the estimated cost is shown in the printer dialog). In order to be allowed to print, they have to be registered as a GPN user, which includes providing payment information to the GPN company.
The client should indicate when the document has finished printing by polling the server regularly. The user can then pick up the printed document at the location they chose. The money for the job is paid transparently into their GPN escrow account, which transfers it to the printing company within 3 days if the charge is not disputed. If the charge is disputed, the printing company is notified, and a dispute resolution process begins.
The GPN company makes money by charging a commission on every payment. It provides the important service of bringing all printing services into one network, cataloging them, and maintaining the software.
This service would not be limited to printing companies. Any office or even private users who have a printer running much of the time could offer the same service. Thanks to all payment being managed by the GPN company, setup and maintenance would not take much time and effort. With a transparent pricing structure, any user could make a conscious decision how much to charge. If you are in an area without other GPN services, you could obviously charge a lot more, for example. This provides home users and businesses an incentive to join the GPN, as they can charge more money than they normally could -- at least until the competition arrives.
These economic dynamics could lead to quick market penetration, allowing, within a reasonable amount of time, anyone to print any document anywhere.
