Hoping this is the right category for this, does anyone offer copier leasing/service contracts? Have someone asking about this, and it’s not something I’ve ever thought about. Based off the research I’ve done, it looks like most just charge so $x amount for so many sheets/month, with a price per sheet if they go over. I’m kind of thinking the monthly fee that allows so many sheets per month, and we include toner & servicing the machine if needed.
One of my biggest concerns, is trying to figure out how to check the status levels of the printer, and clicks each month. Has anyone done this, and have a good way for remotely monitoring the printer status levels?
I have used some companies that have tools for Konica Minolta printers. Basically the business installs software on a VM or small PC. Then you configure that server the subnets (or IP’s). It will then scan and pull all the metrics from the printers. I believe the software is called FM Audit? I also heard of Printanisa Site.
You could also roll your own if you are savvy with SNMP and getting metrics that way. But if the printers are at customer locations the customer will need to setup a server and then you’ll need to expose a server that can collect all the data.
Yes, it is beneficial Use built-in SNMP or vendor tools like PaperCut or PrintFleet to remotely track clicks, toner levels, alerts, and automate monthly billing.
We used to do this when I worked at IBM Global Services. Trust me, it will cost more than you think. Make sure your price per sheet, monthly fees, etc., are appropriately calculated and include all the hidden costs you can think of. A certain number of printers will literally disappear. And people can be very brutal on printers.
I find it worthwhile to work with a local printer vendor. Get to know the small independent printer shops in your town find one who treats their customers they way you do and share leads. They often get sucked into it projects when there onsite working on printer drivers. You can help each other with a customers.