In a recent research by Ernst & Young, 29% of companies acknowledged that their employees work only from the office. More than 70% of employees are working from home at least two to three days a week, and a surprising 40% of companies have either started using a four-day work week or are considering implementing one. As more organizations embrace hybrid work models, equipping employees with the right tools becomes essential. One key device for ensuring seamless collaboration and productivity is the Multifunction Printer (MFP). MFPs combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing capabilities into one device, making them ideal for remote and in-office work environments. However, with so many options on the market, selecting the proper MFP for your hybrid workplace requires careful consideration.
In this guide, we’ll share tips on how to choose the best MFPs to meet your business's specific needs. But first, let’s explore why MFPs are the go-to devices for hybrid work environments.
MFPs are designed to streamline office tasks by combining multiple functions into a single device. For hybrid workplaces, remote employees can easily collaborate with their in-office counterparts, whether they need to print, scan, fax, or copy documents. Additionally, MFPs often come with lower purchase and operating costs compared to maintaining separate devices for each function. This helps businesses save on energy consumption, consumables, and space—benefits that are valuable in a hybrid work setup.
Selecting the right MFP for your business is more than just picking a device off the shelf. Here are a few factors to consider to ensure you choose a solution that aligns with your needs.
Before choosing an MFP, assess your company's printing requirements. Here are some questions to help you get started:
Understanding your specific needs will guide you in determining the number and type of MFPs required and the essential features they should include.
When evaluating MFPs, it's essential to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO). This includes the initial purchase price and the long-term costs associated with consumables, maintenance, and repairs. The TCO can quickly add up in a hybrid work environment, where you may need more MFPs than in a traditional office setup. Therefore, selecting cost-effective devices is crucial to managing your expenses over time.
Remember, the lifetime cost of a printer can be two to three times the initial investment. Assess all potential costs to avoid surprises down the road.
Eco-friendly practices are becoming increasingly crucial for businesses. When selecting an MFP, consider its environmental impact. Look for devices that support sustainability by minimizing energy consumption and reducing waste. Energy-efficient MFPs can help lower your overall operating costs while reducing your carbon footprint—benefits that resonate with your business and the environment.
In today's digital landscape, security is a top priority, especially when it comes to devices connected to your network. As employees connect to work tools from various locations and over varying network portals, your organization's MFPs can be a potential vulnerability if not properly secured. This is why is it crucial to choose an MFPs that offer advanced security features such as user authentication, data encryption, and secure print release. Ensuring your MFPs are equipped with robust security measures can protect sensitive business information from unauthorized access and cyber threats, keeping your data secure across all locations in your hybrid work environment.
Choosing the right MFPs for your hybrid workplace is a significant decision that can impact productivity, costs, and overall efficiency. By carefully considering your business's printing needs, total cost of ownership, and environmental impact, you can select devices that support your team's success remotely and in the office.
At CDS, we understand that no two businesses are alike. That's why we offer a range of office solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're outfitting a small remote team or a sizeable hybrid workforce, our expert team is here to help you find the right technology to keep your business running smoothly. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive MFP solutions!
Beyond copiers and printers, CDS offers a full suite of technology solutions ranging from Managed Print Services, to Managed IT Services, and Project-Based IT Services, providing our customers a Single Source for all their business technology needs.
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