When printing takes too long, it creates a backlog and other office interruptions, along with paper jams and the all-too-frequent call to the repair guy. Consequently, the cost starts to add up and become apparent. But what are the best office printing solutions to reduce time and expense while increasing output? Here are the things to consider that will influence your choice.
Toner vs. Ink
You may want to evaluate an inkjet vs laser printer. Here is the difference: toner is a powdery substance used in laser printers and photocopiers. Contrarily, ink is a water-based substance that contains pigments and is most frequently used for inkjet printing.
The decision-making process starts by analyzing how much load your company needs to print daily or weekly. Ink printing is unquestionably the best option if you operate a small business or even work from home and print a small number of pages per week. On the other hand, laser printing has pushed the envelope for small and medium-sized businesses with its possibilities and is more affordable than ink printing for high loads.
One function vs. multifunctional printers
Evaluating your daily office needs is an excellent place to start when seeking to revamp your printing approach. Some offices may need a few pieces of hardware, such as a simple printer, scanner, photocopier, or fax machine.
On the other hand, a multipurpose device (MFD) might be required. These tools let you combine all the elements in one location, which has several advantages:
- Efficiency of time
- Decrease in power prices
- More office space
- One ink- or toner-supplier
- One piece of equipment only for maintenance inspections
The latter two ideas will assist you in streamlining billing and gaining more control over how much money you need to spend each week on printing.
Print speed
Currently, the key issues facing companies are productivity and efficiency. Therefore speed will be a crucial consideration based on the number of print jobs you need. Slow printing can cause time pressure in crowded offices, which has a cascade effect.
Security
Security is paramount as cloud-based technology and remote printing enter the print industry. Hacking has become widespread, and only a small percentage of commercial networks are sufficiently secure. HP developed Run-Time Intrusion Detection, a popular solution with several extra capabilities.
Its real-time reactionary software has shown to be quite efficient at securing all network-connected workstations by identifying malware and rebooting them when necessary. It’s easy to overlook security, but if you or your company deals with legal documents requiring signatures of any kind, ensure you take security seriously.
Mobile printing
One of the most admirable aspects of contemporary workplace printing is mobile printing, a huge space saver. The capacity to print from a mobile device outside the office or even across the country significantly improves productivity and aids in time management. This saves time and lowers travel expenses.
The price
Finally, the initial cost is something you should consider when looking to modernize the office with new printing technology. The ink control and maintenance costs are long-term and defining elements for office printers, so consider that they are just as important as the initial investment in the product(s).