Abstract: An operator at a remote user interface can receive a directory of available peripheral devices, together with a disclosure of the current configuration of setup parameters of each device so that the operator can select the peripheral device best suited for a particular job. The directory may provide a ranking of the peripheral devices according to fit with the selected setup parameters and a predetermined ordering of the importance of each parameter. The directory may be limited to only those document production apparatus which are capable of being configured in accordance with the operator's selection of setup parameters; or the directory may include all document production apparatus on the network, letting the operator modify the parameter selection to fit the available configurations if necessary.