5 criteria for selecting a managed print services company by Bob Jones
in Business (submitted 2011-02-03)
As the demand for managed print services (MPS) grows, as does the number of MPS companies across the world. The industry has seen a record growth over the past few years, and is set to grow even further as more and more companies begin to realise the huge value that MPS offer in terms of sustainable, affordable and accountable print management solutions. Regardless of whether you run a small design firm or you are the IT manager of a massive multi-million international organisation, hiring a managed print services company is the first step in managing your print resources effectively. Knowing how to choose the right MPS company boils down to knowing which criteria you need to consider during the MPS sourcing process. These include the following considerations:
1. Commitment to green printing and eco-friendly practices
Green printing is fast becoming a buzz word in the MPS industry, and basically covers the eco-friendly aspect of this service. Every year, millions of offices all over the world are producing huge volumes of waste, and the impact that this as well as the printing industry has on the environment is massive. A good MPS company will help you implement more effective green strategies, to reduce waste and help work towards a greener future.
2. Experience in the printing industry
In order to effectively manage and maintain print systems, the MPS company needs to have solid experience and understanding within the industry. That means that your MPS needs to be an influencer in the market, who is able to negotiate discounts and work the markets at all times. This experience will also enable your MPS company to recommend innovative print solutions that are targeted at generating more effective processes, not to mention significant savings.
3. Management information
The overall management of the print solutions is essential, and as part of that, the information that your MPS is able to deliver in terms of reports, audits and other aspects of the process is highly important. Information should be tracked and shared monthly, allowing you to monitor the progress of your campaign at all times. Accountability plays a big role in the managed print services game, and as such, the information that you receive from the company is vital in order to use it to your advantage across various departments.
4. Admin processes
Does the MPS company have solid administrative processes set into place that ensure that reporting is accurate, current and relevant? This includes specialised programmes and software that enable effective running of your campaigns, from the auditing software to the dashboard that allows you to control all printers within your organisation easily and efficiently.
5. MPS team
The team that is allocated to your account also play a big role in the overall success of your print management solutions. Customer service and a good relationship ensure that you are able to work with your MPS partner every step of the way, with constant feedback and service delivery throughout the duration of your managed print services contract.
About the Author
Bob Jones offers advice for businesses seeking the reliable managed print services, telephone and printer audits or green printing options.
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