Through managed print services (MPS)/print fleet management, companies are able to reduce costs and increase productivity. Improvements in productivity are especially witnessed when outsourcing the hardcopy device fleet to an external vendor. Printers are one of the most commonly managed services within any office environment. The volume of printed document flow through the organization is managed using specific strategies, minimizing operational and overhead costs.

When a company engages in managed print services (MPS)/print fleet management, the goal is to get a return on the investment. The line between multifunction devices, copiers, and printers has blurred, with each device having a more complex set of features. In most cases, the IT department of a company is charged with management of this device fleet. IT staff is known for taking a standardized approach to the identification and implementation of processes.

Just because the IT staff is placed in charge of managed print services (MPS)/print fleet management does not mean the staff members have been properly educated on what they are buying and troubleshooting. In addition, many IT staffers waste precious time resolving printing-related issues. By outsourcing managed services to companies like, IT departments are free to focus on developing new technologies. A strategic partner like The Pendulum Group located in Markham, Ontario handles the device fleet, refreshing technology as needed.

When contracting with an outside vendor for managed print services (MPS)/print fleet management, the customers should learn more about what services are included. They should carefully read the contract and ask questions regarding any confusing information. Vendors have different definitions of managed services so it is important that clients understand what they are providing. In many cases, the contract will change as the decision maker on the client side gains more experience with the arrangement. The issue moves from one of control to the area of optimization.

Most managed print services (MPS)/print fleet management programs include some type of software designed to assess document volume and work processes employed by the client. Analysis of the results allows a fleet management plan to be developed that meets client needs in terms of employee work habits, daily utilization volume, and ability to use various kinds of technology. Downtime and equipment overhead costs are minimized, making a positive impact on the balance sheet.

There are various angles one can take when outsourcing managed services but the overall goal is the same. Clients must spend money on their output solutions but through proper management of those solutions and the consolidation of logistics, they can realize cost savings. While the customer pays less, the solutions provider realizes a profit margin through economies of scale for the services it provides.

Whether a company elects to keep its managed print services (MPS)/print fleet management in house or outsource it to a vendor link The Pendulum Group, the desire is to reduce costs without allowing productivity to suffer. After conducting a thorough analysis, many companies realize that outsourcing is the preferred alternative. It allows technical staff to focus on what they do best, leaving the management of the device fleet to a company who is primarily engaged in such services, a winning situation for both parties.