Oh, the endless hassles of multiple mismatched printers!
You have to keep multiple types of cartridges on hand, employee computers need to have multiple printer drivers installed, and one printer hardly gets used because everybody dislikes it. Oh, and everyone has trouble finding the two-sided copy setting because it’s different on every printer.
You’ve gradually adjusted to this hassle over time, but maybe you haven’t noticed what a bite it’s taking out of your schedule! And while this situation isn’t plunging your business into bankruptcy, it could be greatly improved. But how?
Maybe it’s time for a fleet upgrade.
You might be thinking: I don’t need three or four new printers! Maybe not, but maybe it’s time to rethink your printer strategy. (And if you don’t have a printer strategy, here’s a place to start.)
There are four strategies we see businesses using when it
comes to printers and printer fleets:
- One great printer that does it all
- A complete printer at every desk
- A small printer at every desk for daily tasks, and a larger one for larger jobs or color jobs
- A printer for each specific job
Which of these strategies is best for your business? If it seems like a difficult choice, the best option might be a combination of strategies. A few simple pointers can help you find an efficient solution for your unique needs.
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Printer Solution
- Keep it simple. Using different models of printers brings confusion, since each operate in a slightly different way using different software or applications. Imagine a carpentry crew using four different brands of cordless tools, each with their own batteries and chargers. Stick with the same model if you can. Your learning curve is smaller and your understanding will be greater!
- Inefficiency adds up! Waiting on inadequate printers, walking across the shop to pick up the next order, and trying to fill time while your coworker prints a 200-page job can all be serious drags on your office efficiency if they happen on a regular basis.
- Use what works for you. Black and white laser printers tend to be the most trouble-free and longest-lasting printers. If black and white is all you need, use them.
- Look at all the factors. Besides finding a printer model with the features and performance you need, consider durability, initial cost, and the cost of supplies. A fleet of lemons doesn’t taste very good!
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Here at Think Ink, we’d be happy to help you think through your fleet needs. If you’re struggling with your mismatched fleet of printers, give us a call. We can explain our printer bundles and show you how to save on a fleet upgrade. Or if you’d like one great printer that does it all, we can help with that, too.
