In every office, the printer gets used again and again. It's relied on for many employees to get a wide variety of projects done. However, your network of printers may not be as efficient and cost-effective as it could be. Here's how getting a managed print assessment can get it back on track for better productivity.
Assessing Each Machine
The first step in a managed print assessment is to take a close look at each machine that is currently being used. Newer printers have several distinct advantages over older models. If there are older printers still in use, they may need to be removed to increase the efficiency of the entire fleet. An old printer that is still being kept in use will likely use more energy, print with more errors, and generate more heat that causes further energy expenditures for air-conditioning. As each printer is assessed, taking the old ones out can help reduce costs and boost reliability.
Features and Speed
Just as the age and overall condition of each printer are assessed, its printing speed and range of other features are also examined. An older model that prints slowly can never be as fast as a current model. And, newer printers have more features that can be used. And for many models, those features can be used simultaneously. Getting rid of printers with slower speeds leaves room in the fleet for faster printers that will help employees get tasks done more quickly. And for printers that have multiple functions, going over those functions can help employees to see ways to improve their workflows.
Usage and Need
A network of printers is often not put together all at once. It begins with a few printers, then another is added, then a specialty one is needed, etc. This can result in there being too many for the number of people using them. Monitoring that shows you exactly how much each of them is being used can give you a better idea of how many printers are needed. Part of your managed print assessment is comparing the number of employees, the number of printers, as well as the amount of usage that each machine gets. If there are too many, removing some will simplify workflows and save energy. If there are not enough, adding printers will end the waiting periods your employees likely have when needing a printer.
When you are ready for your managed print assessment, contact us to find out how to get started toward better productivity and a more cost-effective printing solution.