A printing services survey was distributed via email to Foothill and De Anza College students May 19 to June 3 to determine if both colleges will continue to use the current printing system.

The District Educational Technology Advisory Committee set up the latest printing system in fall quarter 2013 after numerous complaints about the previous system being outdated.

Student reactions to the new printing system are mixed. Some students have no issues, while other said it is too confusing and always has problems.

“I don’t really have any complaints, because to me it’s a pretty easy system to use,” said Chelsea Colbert, 20, social and behavioral science major.

“I have heard people complain in some of my classes that the printer won’t work with certain files and sometimes getting charged even when the file doesn’t print.”

There have been many changes to the system since its implementation such as an updated speed processor, converting all files to PDF form and a system that stops the printer from randomly disconnecting.

The printing survey is intended to determine whether these updates are sufficient, whether the committee should continue to work with the vendor to make more updates or if they should cancel the system all together said Joseph Moreau, vice chancellor of technology.

“We are really committed to providing students with cutting edge tools at their disposal,” Moreau said.

The committee discussed the printing system, Moreau said, and it determined that it does not matter what the staff wants.

“What matters is what the students want. That is what the printing survey is trying to accomplish.”

The printing survey is intended for those who use the printing system and those who do not.

For the students who use the system, questions are designed to find out which problems students typically encounter while using the system.

For students who do not use the system, the questions ask why not.

The survey will give the committee an idea if the printing system is successfully assisting students with their printing needs.

The survey will give the committee an idea if the printing system is successfully assisting students with their printing needs.