subject: The myths and misconceptions of managed print services [print this page] The myths and misconceptions of managed print services
In the past decade alone, companies all over the world have begun to see the immense value in managed print services. Gone are the lavish, wasteful days of the 1980's, where offices were about power, mass-production and capitalism, with little regard to the environment, future or resources. These days, employees and managers across companies of all sizes, from large multi-nationals to small work-from-home businesses have all awakened to effective printing practices emailing rather than printing, choosing the paper that they use to print, considering the ink that is uses, purchasing greener printers and fax machines and in many cases, outsourcing print needs to a dedicated managed print services company that is able to help companies reduce waste, monitor printing demands, manage all print related projects and even teach companies how to implement green printing practices.
On the other hand however, there are sadly still those companies who buy into the myths and misconceptions surrounding MPS (managed print services) instead choosing to do things the way that they have always done them, without ever really understanding the value in hiring an MPS. Here are some of the most common printing misconceptions still afloat:
Myth #1: Printing is not an environmental issue
This is one of the most popular myths, which gives many companies the excuse to not bother with sustainable printing practices, since they want to believe that printing is not such a huge threat to the environment at all. Sadly, this is just not true studies have shown again and again that conventional printing is one of the biggest threats from an environmental point of view, with the paper industry being one of the biggest consumers of virgin forests in the world. The ink production process is not much better either, with pollution and many other factors causing many conscientious consumers to choose organic or vegetable inks over harsh chemical inks.
Myth #2: It would cost too much to change our printing processes
This is another myth, and another common excuse to avoid change. The irony is that changing print processes to a greener way of doing things actually ends up saving companies a fortune in the long run, reducing waste and minimising printing costs throughout the company. Hiring an expert MPS company may cost a small amount in monthly fees, but this is miniscule when you consider the huge amount that you end up saving once your MPS teaches you how to control your print output.
Myth #3: There is nothing to print management, I can do it myself!
Another myth that also happens to be an attempt to cut down on costs, this seldom ends up working successfully. Much like you wouldn't try a DIY job to fix your broken tooth, you should not really be attempting a DIY job to sort out your printing unless you have the software, skills and understanding that professional MPS experts possess. You may be able to cut back on your printing, but without the high quality tools, tracking and expertise, you would end up spending most of your time trying to control your print demands, rather than doing your actual job. Rather than hiring someone exclusively to handle your printing needs in-house, it would make much more sense to hire an outsourced managed print services expert who can help you make the most of your printing practices, saving you a bundle in the long run.
