The research company Quocirca recently conducted a survey examining management challenges facing small businesses today. The primary finding? More SMBs are adopting Manage Print Services (MPS) to manage their print environments.

Like their large enterprise counterparts, small and medium-sized businesses rely on technology to drive productivity. However, the study found that most SMBs are limited by budget and a lack of resources. This means that they need to do more with less, keep technology current, and guard capital expenditures.

The Cost of Printing

The Quocirca study found that 75% of small business relies on print to support daily business processes, yet half are struggling to manage out-of-control print costs. Printing is the third largest expense for many companies. Left unmonitored, print costs can be a significant drain on cash flow. Uncontrolled ordering and stocking of consumables like toner, along with managing service contracts and dealing with daily print issues are creating higher expenses and lost productivity. Printer downtime can have a significant effect on business continuity and productivity.

These challenges are all addressed by Managed Print Services. MPS contracts are typically billed monthly, and based on a cost-per-page model, this allows businesses to create predictable expenses and lower print costs.

Small and Medium-Sized Business Are Turning to MPS for Help

MPS provides proactive service and supply management, remote monitoring and regular maintenance. Many of the functions are automated. This reduces downtime and frees staff to focus on core business initiatives.

MPS providers offer a range of customized approaches. For smaller businesses, a basic print service is a good starting point. However to truly reap the benefits of MPS, many SMBs have adopted a broader model that includes automating document workflows.

Over the long-term, partnering with an MPS provider that offers scalable software and service options can be a good approach for most SMBs.

Want to learn more? Call us and arrange a free no obligation print assessment and let us provide your business with a fact based solution to manage your print environment.