Printing might not be the first thing to remember when considering efficiency for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), but it plays a crucial role in daily operations. From managing costs to improving productivity, the way businesses handle printing can significantly impact their bottom line. That’s where print management solutions step in, offering smarter and more streamlined ways to handle printing needs. This blog dives into the latest print management trends shaping SMBs and shows how these solutions can help businesses in Philadelphia, eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Whether you’re looking to cut costs, enhance security, or simplify processes, staying current with these trends could transform the way you print and operate.
Understanding Print Management Solutions
Before discussing specific trends, it’s important to understand print management solutions. This strategy integrates hardware, software, and services to optimize how businesses produce and handle printed materials.
Rather than letting printing grow out of control—from unchecked costs to outdated devices all fighting for attention—Managed Print Services (MPS) offer a centralized approach. This solution helps SMBs monitor usage, automate supplies, and maintain consistent output, so you spend less time worrying about print-related headaches.
Top Trends Influencing Managed Print Solutions
- Enhanced Sustainability in Printing Practices
Sustainability is a major focus for SMBs today. Businesses aren’t just looking to cut printing costs; they’re also aiming to reduce their environmental footprint. Managed print trends have adapted to this need, offering eco-friendly solutions like energy-efficient printers, recycled paper options, and digital workflows that minimize unnecessary printing altogether.
For instance, reports show that SMBs adopting digital document management can reduce paper usage by up to 80%. Modern print management solutions also enforce print rules, such as default double-sided printing or preventing color printing for non-essential jobs.
By aligning print strategies with sustainability goals, SMBs can protect the planet and enhance their market reputation as environmentally responsible businesses.
- Improved Security with Print Management Solutions
Cybersecurity isn’t just about laptops and databases anymore; even printers have potential vulnerabilities. For SMBs, this growing concern has driven demand for print management solutions with enhanced security features.
Managed Print Services often include secure release printing, which ensures documents only print when authorized employees are present at the printer. Other security measures, such as encryption and user authentication, protect sensitive business information from unauthorized access.
According to a recent study, 60% of businesses have experienced data breaches involving printers. With tools like secure printing workflows and regular software updates provided through an MPS, SMBs can avoid potential threats while protecting their data and reputation.
- Predictive Maintenance and Smart Analytics
Gone are the days of scrambling to fix broken printers during a busy workday. A growing trend in managed print solutions is the use of predictive maintenance and data analytics to eliminate these disruptions.
With real-time monitoring, supported by your MPS provider, devices can alert teams about potential issues before they lead to downtime. For example, if a printer is running low on toner or showing signs of wear and tear, you’ll know about it ahead of time rather than being blindsided by a complete breakdown.
Additionally, smart analytics provide valuable insights into your printing habits. This data helps SMBs make informed decisions, like consolidating underutilized devices or adjusting print policies to reduce waste.
- Cloud-Based Print Management
In the remote and hybrid work age, SMBs increasingly rely on cloud-based print management solutions to meet their needs. Unlike traditional printing setups tied to physical servers and devices, cloud-based solutions enable employees to print securely from anywhere, using any connected device.
This flexibility is invaluable for SMBs, with employees frequently working from home or on the go in cities like Philadelphia or across eastern Pennsylvania. Cloud printing also integrates seamlessly with existing workflows, such as file-sharing platforms and email systems, creating a smooth, convenient user experience.
With this trend, SMBs can boost productivity and collaboration while retaining control over security and costs.
- Focus on Cost Control and Predictability
Balancing a tight budget is always a top priority for SMBs. One of the biggest advantages of adopting print management solutions is their ability to control costs and provide predictability.
20–30%, according to leading industry studies. Additionally, the flat-rate payment structure of most MPS plans means SMBs can easily forecast their IT expenses without worrying about unexpected repair bills or supply shortages.
By reducing inefficiencies and providing clear financial oversight, Managed Print trends continue to focus on empowering SMBs to invest resources where they matter most.
Why SMBs Should Prioritize Managed Print Solutions
Simplified Day-To-Day Operations
Managed Print providers take the burden of handling print-related tasks off your plate. From automatic supply replenishment to ongoing maintenance, SMBs no longer need to spend valuable time dealing with operational hiccups.
Customization for Small Businesses
Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, MPS providers deliver tailored approaches based on organizational size, industry, and usage habits. For SMBs in New Jersey or Delaware, this means creating specific workflows that match local office needs.
Staying Competitive with the Latest Tech
By keeping up with the latest print management solutions, SMBs gain access to cutting-edge technology that improves efficiency, security, and flexibility. This ensures businesses stay competitive and prepared for whatever challenges come next.
Take Charge of Your Printing
The trends shaping Managed Print Services are about more than upgrading hardware. They promise efficiency, security, sustainability, and transparency to ensure SMBs can focus on growth instead of grappling with printing problems. Whether you’re looking to implement sustainable practices, secure sensitive documents, or enable remote work, a print management solution is designed with your business needs in mind.
Getting Started
Contact us today to discover how we support businesses in Philadelphia, eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Reach out via our contact page to find the perfect print strategy for your business needs.
Empower your business with smarter print solutions that save time, money, and resources!