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Malaysian construction demands range from public infrastructure projects to private investments, such as high-rise residential and mixed-use developments in Greater Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penang. AEC design firms working to meet this demand are always seeking tools and solutions to improve efficiency and stay ahead of the curve. HP Click is a powerful and adaptable large format printing software platform developed by HP that could transform how teams work. Built-in features significantly simplify work processes, from managing documents to collaboration and task automation. Seamless integration with existing HP devices and software also enables teams to optimise workflows without investing in new infrastructure. This article explores how HP Click's large format printing software can enhance productivity and efficiency, making it an essential tool for modern AEC design teams.

Understanding HP Click

HP Click is a software tool designed to make large format printing easier. It has a drag-and-drop interface, interactive print preview, auto nesting, and error checking. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac, and supports multiple file formats, including PDF, JPEG, PNG, HP-CL/2, TIFF, and DWF.

Users can choose from the HP Click application or the HP Click driver for compatibility with existing HP devices and software. The HP Click driver runs under Windows 11 to support various HP DesignJet printers and plotter software that AEC professionals depend on for seamless document management and error-free efficiency. The HP Click app allows users to print from Windows or Mac. Both options automatically detect supported printers and align with native print paths, simplifying large format printing and reducing error-related waste.

Simplifying Document Management

A single AEC project generates vast amounts of data, including architectural designs, structural plans, and material specifications. Various documents often also go through multiple iterations, making version control a potential issue. Document management is crucial to ensuring all team members and stakeholders have access to the most up-to-date information.

HP Click simplifies document creation with a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy to add files to the print queue. Automatic file detection eliminates the hassle of manual plotter configurations, reducing user error. Integration with existing devices and software allows users in any location to easily access the latest version of a document through the large format printing software and print from anywhere.

Enhancing Collaboration

Project coordination in the AEC industry depends heavily on clear communication between multiple teams and stakeholders. Project updates and change orders make document version control essential to avoid preventable errors and costly rework. HP Click enhances the flow of information between design and construction teams and project stakeholders by digitising documents, automating cloud-based workflows, and eliminating manual, error-prone processes.

Automating Routine Tasks

The traditional AEC workflow is burdened by manual tasks such as file preparation, printer calibration, and schematics review. HP Click automates a variety of tasks to streamline the large format printing process and eliminate user error.

• Automatic file detection automatically detects the file type and makes the necessary configurations for accurate prints.
• Support for multiple file formats eliminates the need for file conversions before printing.
• Batch printing lets users print multiple documents at once to save time and effort on large jobs.
• The nesting feature automatically arranges multiple images or pages on a single sheet.
• Automatic rotation and resizing ensure files are aligned and scaled to meet user needs.
• Cutting lines for easy trimming simplifies the task of trimming images after printing.

Improving Security and Compliance

Digital environments and cloud storage dramatically improve project collaboration, document management, and waste reduction efforts in the AEC industry. However, without the right security protocols in place, these practices can introduce critical security risks. HP Click integrates with HP printers and plotters that feature Wolf Security.

The integrated security suite uses a host of technologies to constantly monitor for anomalous behaviour. It also contains threats with endpoint detection. HP Click is updated automatically to address evolving security concerns, helping businesses ensure compliance with Malaysia's Cyber Security Act 2024 and address data security issues commonly introduced through endpoints and cloud systems.

User-Friendly Interface and Customisation

Large format printers and AutoCAD plotters can feel more complicated than typical office printers, with complicated setups and specialised requirements. HP Click is designed to make large format printing easier with automated features that eliminate manual tasks and opportunities for error.

Key features of HP Click's user-friendly interface include:

• Ability to print directly from existing programs, including common CAD applications
• Drag-and-drop functionality for adding files
• Simple workflows that only require adding files, selecting a printer, adjusting settings, and clicking print
• Automatic printer detection
• Interactive real print previews with alerts
• PDF error checking, alerts, and auto checking
• Print and save to PDF capabilities

HP Click also helps users save time with customisable settings for specific jobs and available printer management. Application preferences allow users to change configurations and save preferred settings for future use. Users can change language and units, page size, application layout, and accessibility. You can also manage which printers are available. HP Click's straightforward interface and customisable options make it easier for users of all skill levels to handle print jobs confidently.

Cost Efficiency and ROI

Large teams, poor communication, and error-prone manual processes have traditionally made in-house large format printing complicated for AEC firms. HP Click simplifies operations to eliminate manual tasks and reduce errors, improving productivity and reducing waste. From automating time-consuming manual tasks to remote printing, HP Click streamlines workflows to reduce manual requirements for AEC professionals. Features like real-time previews, smart nesting, and multi-printer support further reduce operational requirements and reduce errors, helping teams save time and money. Businesses already using HP plotters and software gain immediate advantages through HP Click without the need to invest in new infrastructure. AEC firms preparing to invest in an AutoCAD plotter to improve workflows and cut printing costs will gain the benefits of automation and error reduction to quickly recoup the costs of investment.

Meet the Demands of the AEC Industry With Smarter Large Format Printing Software

HP Click is a practical solution to many of the issues AEC firms encounter with large format printing. The large format printing software makes it easy for professionals of all skill levels to print and share detailed blueprints, CAD drawings, and technical schematics without errors or security concerns. Ready to learn more about how HP Click and DesignJet printers and plotters can help you optimise your AEC workflows? Find out more today.