My Personal Finance Blog

For many companies around the world, managed print services is not only a helpful tool, it is an essential business tool that saves them thousands, if not millions in resources. While many companies have begun to see the value in MPS, the industry is still in an emerging state, with a future that is as of yet defined in terms of trends, history and benchmarks. How exactly is the value of managed print services measured, and how will the future of MPS affect the way that companies use their resources on a local and global scale? Some of the most important trends and benefits could hold the key to identifying the future of MPS as a business tool:

 

MPS definition and core service value

 

Until recently, the definition and core service was undefined, making it almost impossible for any benchmarks or standards to be put into place. The MPSA (Managed Print Services Association) has however provided a definition that is now used throughout the industry, stating that:  ”Managed print services is the active management and optimisation of document output devices and related business processes.” This gave a clearly defined outline of MPS that is used throughout the industry to describe the core services provided by print services companies.

 

Measurability, accountability and accuracy

 

The new buzzwords for managed print services include the three most important values of any MPS company: measurability, accountability and accuracy. As the service deals with print, telephone and fax audits and other monitoring of resources, these are essential values that ensure that operations are conducted to the highest standards. The nature of MPS is in the accurate monitoring of print resources, and without clearly defined reporting and analysis; resources are not able to be correctly tracked without these core values.

 

Service range

 

Another key component of MPS companies is the service range they offer. A full service MPS company will be able to offer customers services that cover all aspect of print management, from audits to maintenance and repair of printers, faxes and copiers – resulting in a management of resources rather than a single service focus that could be limiting. A full service operation ensures that customers are able to benefit from a ‘one stop’ type of service, for all of their print management needs.

 

Experience and expertise

 

In such a new industry, it can be hard to gauge expertise and experience within the MPS field. However, skilled technicians who have a sound working knowledge of printers, faxes, copiers and other key equipment, as well as training in the MPS field are able to bring their skills to the industry, ensuring better levels of quality and service standards across the board. While many new MPS companies have emerged, offering years of experience – not all of them may be able to offer specialised skills in areas such as maintenance, reporting or technical repairs.

 

The green printing angle

Another major aspect in the world of MPS is the green printing aspect. From an environmental point of view, MPS solutions are proving to be extremely important as a way to reduce waste, recycle paper, ink and other resources, as well as consider eco-friendly approaches and initiatives that can lower our carbon footprint and aim for a greener way of life. This aspect is therefore playing a huge role in the future of managed print services as a sustainable model for businesses around the world.