Checking in on Managed Print Services Group

Last year when a new Managed Print Services Group started up on the business networking site LinkedIn, Doc suggested keeping an eye on it. You never know what might develop with these groups and some turn into duds. But this group has proven to be very interesting.

With topics ranging from how the Google Cloud Print application might affect MPS to the pros and cons of dedicated or multi-function scanning devices, the group tackles it all.

Here’s what the group has to say about itself:

The Managed Print Services Group is a resource to share industry insights, job postings, discussions, and news related to Managed Print Services. This group is open to vendors, customers, and resellers and dealers.

For purposes of this forum, Managed Print Services are defined as the outsourcing of hardcopy devices (printers, copiers, MFPs, and Faxes) to an external vendor. This also includes the outsourcing of fleet planning, deployment, and management including (but not limited to) financing devices, assessing the fleet, developing hardcopy strategies, supplies replenishment, service, call center support, and many other essential fleet deployment and management activities. Most importantly, it is more than simply providing a 'click charge' or lease agreement for a device. By its very definition Managed Print Services includes the management of the fleet.

You’ll find almost 3,000 members at this very active group. You’ll have to join LinkedIn, but then you should anyway. It’s free and a great way to hook up with people who share common business interests and challenges.