Discover how Managed Print Services are revolutionizing the way businesses handle their printing needs in 2024, offering smarter, more sustainable, and cost-effective solutions.

Exploring the Basics - What do Managed Print Services Offer

So what exactly are Managed Print Services (MPS)? Simply put, if you're a business who needs a copier/printer, you can opt for a Managed Print Service for as low as $40/month to handle all your printer and copier requirements. This comprehensive service includes:

Monitored Automatic Toner Replenishment

Managed Print Services keep a close eye on your toner levels and automatically dispatch replenishments when supplies run low. This is included at no additional charge as part of a MPS plan. This means you won't need a staff member to keep monitoring and buying expensive toner from a store.

Maintenance/Support/Repair

In the event of any issues or malfunctions with your copier, a Managed Print Service will promptly dispatch a skilled technician to address and resolve the problem. This is all covered under your monthly service plan. From maintenance to significant damage, rest assured that a support tech will be on-site and have your copier back up and running in under 3 hours.

Printer/Copier Leases

Nearly all Managed Print Service companies offer copier leasing options to go along with your MPS plan. Leasing an MPS printer includes the installation, setup, and configuration customized to your needs, all the while keeping you up to date on the latest technology.

Evolution of MPS in 2024: The Benefits of Managed Print Services Today

Managed Print Services began in the 1990s. At that time, copiers were complex IT devices requiring specialized knowledge and were far less user-friendly than they are today. Frequent paper jams and breakdowns were common challenges.

Many companies decided to hire outside IT providers for copier management. This allowed their internal teams to focus on important tasks.

Now, 30 years later, copiers have become more durable and user-friendly, with fewer jams and longer lifespans. So, what does Managed Print Services offer in this new landscape? Despite technological advancements, the core value remains the same: outsourcing print management to save your internal team valuable time, money and hassle.

Managed Print Services benefits organizations in 2024 in several ways:

Cyber security

Cybersecurity is an increasingly pressing issue in today's world. Cyber threats have become increasingly more prevalent in 2024 than they were even 10 years ago. It's important to keep all copiers in your printing infrastructure updated with the latest firmware and technology. A Managed Print Service will ensure you have the latest developments and protections in place for print security.

Toner replenishment

One major advancement today compared to 30 years ago is the integration of toner monitoring. When your Managed Print Service sees that the toner is low, they automatically ship a replacement to your office. This ensures you have what you need on time.

Repair

Although copiers are more reliable than they used to be, jams, malfunctions, and errors can still occur. Most brands, like Kyocera, are now equipped to pinpoint the exact location of a jam and guide you through troubleshooting without extra hassle.

However, there are still occasions when a more complex issue arises. These special malfunctions require trained service technicians who know exactly what to look for. These technicians will be able to arrive on-site and have your office back up and running within three hours. This minimizes downtime and keeps your operations smooth.

Preventative Maintenance

Preventive maintenance, much like repair services, is designed to be proactive rather than reactive. Instead of waiting for a part to fail, an MPS provider will inspect your device during their visits to ensure everything is functioning at its best. If a service tech identifies a part that’s starting to wear out, they’ll fix it as part of your monthly service plan. This method helps your copier run smoothly, preventing sudden breakdowns before important meetings.

Support

In 2024, copiers are much more user-friendly, with many features discoverable through simple interactions through a touchscreen interface.

However, for those specialized printing needs or more advanced operations, a remote tech is only a call away who can walk you through the process. Managed Print Services provide resources and phone support to assist you with advanced tasks. This helps you use your copier effectively without causing any damage.

The Cost of MPS in 2024

If the idea of having a company handle all your printing needs may seem too good to be true. It might have you speculative about the cost. However, Managed Print Services are actually designed to save your organization money.

Here’s how:

Toner

For less than you can purchase online a Managed Print Service agreement includes the cost of toner. An MPS dealer partners with the copier manufacturer, which means it's no extra cost to you. Without a Managed Print Service Agreement, purchasing toner online could be hundreds of dollars online, costing more than an annual service plan.

Repair

Managed Print Service cover both repair time and parts. Typically, copier repairs can cost upwards of $150 per hour, plus the additional cost for parts. With a Managed Print Service agreement starting at just $40 per month, you avoid these expensive repair charges and the hassle of managing them.

Fixed Monthly Payments

Instead of making a large upfront investment in a copier, a Managed Print Service lets you spread the cost with fixed monthly payments.

How do I know if I should get Managed Print Services?

There is a common joke among IT professionals that goes, "I'm an IT guy, not a copier guy."

Some organizations want their own staff to fix copiers, but being in IT doesn't always mean they know how to fix copiers. Fixing copiers requires specific knowledge and experience. If you have trouble maintaining your copier, a Managed Print Service can help by taking care of all the difficult tasks for you. 

We provide copiers, printers and Managed Print Services in Michigan and can provide a complimentary analysis to see how we can help improve your current print environment. We work as a consultant with your business to find out ways we can improve your needs and not over-sell you devices and features you don't need. Reach out to us today if you are interested in a free cost analysis to improve your productivity. We will review your print fleet and consult with you on your best options.