JISC

Overview

This project investigates and trials the potential for print substitution by using e-readers in institutional committee meetings that traditionally generate large volumes of paper. Functionality of the new generation e-reader devices offers great potential but has not yet been tested in this way. This project will determine if e-readers are ‘fit for purpose’ in that context and can be promoted for wider use.

There are impacts upon core practices of the University as a workplace and the project requires changes to behaviours and working practices to realise the green and anticipated financial, social and individual benefits.

Aims and Objectives

The aims are to trial the potential of readily available, low-technology portable devices (e-readers) to reduce printing and transform approaches to organising the business of committee meetings.

The main objectives are to:

• reduce the number of paper documents used by committees;
• to successfully trial e-readers as a print substitute in 2 selected pilot committees for 1 year;
• explore interaction between PCs and e-readers in preparation and production of papers and advance reading;
• assess costs and savings: environmental, energy, resources, and uncover hidden costs / advantages of a greener way of life
• assess the cultural and organisational impact on and benefits to working styles and behaviours of committee members
• ongoing assessment of e-reader developments

Project Methodology

The initial stages are to determine the optimum device by evaluating e-readers to assess functionality for use in preparatory and committee scenarios and through user needs analysis. Appropriate training and support will be developed and delivered prior to trialling e-readers in pilot committees and ongoing engagement with committees will record and evaluate changes in behaviour and practice.

Comparison of energy use costs within the current system and post-implementation will be carried out, including full life cycle analysis of e-reader costings. The developments in e-reader technology over the life of the project will be evaluated as a substitute for paper documents.

Anticipated outputs and outcomes

The primary outcomes of this project are systems and processes that will evaluate and support widespread print substitution and are readily transferrable across the sector.

• E-reader evaluation criteria and analysis of carbon footprint
• Guidance on processes to support the production and adoption of e-reader ‘friendly’ documents
• A programme of training and development activities and materials
• Conference presentation at a relevant national/international conference followed by peer-reviewed paper in an appropriate journal
• A regularly updated blog to report on progress and share lessons learned with the Greening ICT community