A method is described for automatically predicting user-preferred copy or
scan settings based on past user behavior. The method is implemented in a
management section of a copier, scanner, or multifunction devices that
combine copy, scan and print functions, or on a server connected with
such a device. The management section maintains a copy/scan/user (CSU)
settings database that stores copy and/or scan settings associated with
user IDs. Each time a copy or scan job is initiated, the management
section analyzes the CSU database to determine a predicted user-preferred
setting. The user may manually change the setting and confirm it, and the
management section stores the user confirmed setting in the CSU database
for future use. The CSU database may be transferred from one
copier/scanner/multifunction device to another.