Managed Print Services

Managed Print Services (MPS) involve managing hardcopy device fleets (copiers, printers, multifunction devices, and fax machines) in a unified fashion. Whilst this can be done internally, the term is typically associated with outsourcing the fleet to an external vendor. Managed Document Services (MDS) is a close relation to MPS where vendors consider the service to be wider than simply print. MPS/MDS are a subset of the broader Managed Services market, although MPS/MDS have unique applications for an organization. There are many definitions of MPS in the market place ranging from re-branding of break-fix contracts to outsource contracts with on-site staff. The only known definition of MPS for which the major vendors have reached consensus was Intellect UK's in 2009.

Core Aspects

The core aspects of MPS are defined as: Management information with consolidated billing Proactive maintenance of the equipment fleet Ongoing optimisation of the environment throughout the contract life There are a wide variety of other services and software applications that can be added to this core.

MPS Core features.

This diagram shows a core focus on print rather than printers, 3 core elements and several optional elements in the outer ring.

MPS are facilitated by key software applications that fall into one of four categories:

1. Print Management software to manage the volume and nature of print and authenticate users
2. Device Management software to monitor and manage the print devices in an environment
3. Discovery and Design Software to analyse and plan for the change required in implementing a MPS
4. Scan Routing software to route scans to various destinations including fax servers, network folders, email or workflows

The MPS Providers vary in size, abilities, and hardware/software supported.

Four Groups of MPS Providers

There are four main groups of organisation type that are engaged in MPS.

OEMs

Such as Canon, HP, Konica Minolta, Kyocera, Lexmark, Océ, OKI, Ricoh, Sharp, Toshiba and Xerox.

Although historically partisan many OEMs are providing brand independent MPS with their managed service arms. This de-focus away from single brand solutions is a key trend in this space.

Systems Integrators

Such as Accenture, Capgemini, Computacenter, Fujitsu Services, Steria and SCC. These organisations have looked to append MPS to their wider Managed Service contract with clients.

Managed Service Providers - IT and Copier resellers

There are a large number of companies in this area typically focusing on the SMB space.

Supplies Based Providers

Such as OfficeMax, Staples or Office Depot.

Independent Consultancy Practices

There are a number of vendor independent consultancy practices providing independent advice (not providing MPS themselves) to customers that help them go to market including analysis, business case creation, RFP creation and ongoing optimization support.

External links

• http://www.e-sol.co.uk/manageprint/MPS.pdf Independent research by GartnerGroup on MPS.