If you bought a multi-function printer some while ago, then you may be tempted to hammer it until the mechanical heart gives out, putting up with those annoying paper jams and toner problems until you really, absolutely have to do something about it.

You may also be aware of the current debate between CapEx (Capital Expenditure) and OpEx (Operational Expenditure) that is leading many businesses to outsource provision rather than invest in expensive infrastructure.

It’s being done in IT as a matter of course now, with developments like the cloud which makes sharing of information on any gadget, anywhere, and on the move, a more efficient way of running things. And it’s having a knock on effect in the way businesses select to run their offices, including their printing provision.

The old CapEx benefit that one day you would own the infrastructure you invested in so heavily, and you don’t have to cut into a long standing service agreement that is difficult to get out of, is becoming less and less attractive. Technology is developing at a pace and businesses that want to keep up need to consider treating their printing infrastructure as more of an Operational Expense.

How long does an office gadget last? As long as it remains useful and caters to the changing needs of your business. According to a recent study, a high volume print use should mean that you need to change your multi-function printer every four years, for low volume it’s more like 5. The problem is that it’s not just the wear and tear that you need to take into account but the chance of missing out on greater functionality.

What the new breed of multi-function printers do

We live in a world of even greater functionality. Not only are the latest models of MFP more economical and can help lower your carbon footprint, they allow you to do neat new things like print from your smartphone or send scanned articles to someone halfway across the world.

• Sophisticated sleep modes that mean you use less energy.
• More efficient paper handling and lower jam rates.
• Functionality like remote device management which means you can access a multi-function printer from anywhere.
• Higher memory capacity and greater resolution that allows you to store and print high quality documents.
• Higher speeds that make short work of those bulk jobs.

The benefits of leasing

The good leasing companies are becoming more adept at providing a service tailored to the needs of an individual business. It is now more of a relationship based on trust than a straight provision.

• Regular maintenance and proactive servicing lengthens the lifespan of your multi-function printer.
• It reduces the costs overall such as sourcing replacements, purchasing, and installation and retraining staff.
• Reduces your environment impact because the printer is maintained properly and you have access to all the latest technological developments.
• More importantly it keeps you up-to-date with all the latest developments.

More now than ever, leasing provides flexibility and makes sure your printing provision is kept up to date at the minimum cost.