Once you’ve chosen your managed print services (MPS) partner and worked out your requirements, it’s time to execute the strategy.

This stage is broken conveniently into a number of clear objectives.

Implementation

Whether it be printer hardware, software, or a mixture of both, this is where the MPS team undertakes the installation, training and adjustments to processes.

Clearly, any changes that need to be made to your existing system will need careful introduction, which is why you should also expect help from a Business Transformation Team.

By working in partnership with your MPS provider, you’ll find it much easier to gain user buy-in and make the process of implementing the hardware and software as efficient and non-disruptive as it should be.

Opt for an advanced implementation, and you’ll benefit from a bespoke plan, phased rollouts and project management.

Scanning solutions

With your new print infrastructure in place, the next phase of execution relates to scanning

The MPS team will implement scanning and document routing solutions that aid the paper-to-digital transition.

Those who want something a little more advanced can opt for scanning solutions that automatically save and name documents in the right location and digitise all incoming and outgoing mail without human input.

Mobile printing

Chances are, some of your workforce will be mobilised, and the next phase of MPS execution will satisfy their requirements.

At this stage, expect printing from mobile devices and remote access to your internal infrastructure to be set up and rolled out.

Maintaining high levels of security and ease-of-use will be of paramount importance during this phase, so expect a close hand from your MPS provider throughout.

Standard and advanced apps

Depending on the level of MPS service you’ve invested in, this is when you’ll be given access to applications from the manufacturer’s app store.

The apps you’ll install might include solutions for translation, bulletins and, if you fancy it, the option to build custom apps on your printing devices.

The paper reduction strategy

With everything in place, it’s time to work on your paper reduction strategy.

This will likely be discussed prior to implementation with your MPS partner, but the goal is to use print management and device optimisation to reduce paper use.

Advanced MPS solutions go further. By using ‘gamification’ techniques, they add healthy competition to the reduction of paper usage and digitisation of paper-based processes.

The final stage: security

No managed print services execution is complete without a firm focus on security.

Your MPS partner will ensure your printing environment conforms to the latest security standards by implementing the manufacturer’s industry-standard security features.

This will ensure the documents that pass through your infrastructure benefit from the highest level of protection against malicious use and cybercrime, but advanced MPS options also offer automatic detection when sensitive documents are scanned or printed, enabling them to be flagged, held, watermarked or redacted.

Following the execution of your MPS strategy, you’ll enter the phase of constant improvement to ensure it grows with your business.