Strategies to Reduce Printing

Faculty Specific

Assignments and handouts can be distributed electronically. We ask faculty to make assignments eligible for electronic submission through Brightspace in support of the Campus-Supported Learning Management System Policy.  
 
Electronic distribution and submission of students’ work will also promote easy access and reduce the chances that documents will be lost or misplaced. These will then be available to anyone at any time via any digital device. Instructors can also use Brightspace to provide text or audio feedback on electronic submission of assignments. 
 
Every course has a Brightspace course shell that is populated with student enrollments from Banner. If you require assistance with Brightspace, we recommend visiting the Instructional Design and Distance Learning - D2L Brightspace page for resources and training options. 

KB Articles and Resources for Digital File Sharing

General Practice


Use digital documents 

Handouts for meetings can be shared online through MS Teams or email, and through collaboration tools like SharePoint or OneDrive. Please be mindful of the confidentiality and security requirements of information being shared. Refer to the campus Data Access Policy and the Data Risk Classification Policy for guidance. 

KB Articles and Resources for Digital File Sharing

Print If You Must

We encourage everyone to continue using electronic documents wherever possible, and to only print things that must be on paper. For example, legal contracts that must be signed with a wet ink signature. 
 
If special format printing (i.e. posters, postcards, brochures, etc.), large quantity print jobs, or special document element printing (i.e.  hole punching, stapling, binding, etc.) is required, it is recommended that you engage the services of the Design and Print Center.
 
Pricing and a request form for all of the Design and Print Center services is available on their website: Design and Print Center. You may also reach out to the Design and Print Center via email at graphics@buffalostate.edu.

If you are looking for signs or posters, it is recommended that you consider using the campus’ digital signage option, Visix. To inquire about digital signage, please submit a Visix Digital Signage ticket through the ITS client portal (log-in required).

Accessibility Considerations and Exceptions

Printed documents and content create accessibility barriers. To minimize and/or eliminate this, faculty are required to provide content in accessible electronic format. If faculty choose to distribute hard copy or printed content, they should always be made available in the required accessible electronic format to maintain barrier free access for all.

Due to the dramatic difference in the printing costs between desktop printers and multi-function printers, the SUNY Initiative calls for the elimination of desktop printers. Accessibility exceptions are available for those who qualify and submit the appropriate forms: Reasonable Accommodation Request and Health Care Provider Form for Reasonable Accommodation Request.

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