Top 5 Items when Leasing or Purchasing an MFP Device

These are my top five items I would address when needing a new MFP/Copier.

1. 1. Know your present and future needs: Since almost all MFP/Copiers are leased, you need to have a handle on your present and future needs. Will I need Network faxing or walkup faxing, scan documents to email, scan to folder, walk up authentication, TWAIN scanning, paper sizes needed to print, scan, fax or copy, color scan, color copy, color print.
   
   
2. Know what your existing Costs are: How can you make a decision on a new product if you don't know your existing costs. Current Lease if any, costs for supplies, cost for service, cost for maintenance agreement, how many sheets of paper you have used for printing or copying in a week, month or year.
   
   
3. Interview your vendor: Ask for references, ask how long the rep has been with the firm, ask how long they have been in business, ask about third party software, its not just about printing, copying, scanning and faxing anymore. Today there are many third party software solutions that will integrate with your mfp to simplify or increase productivity. Ask for quotes on three different systems that he or she thinks would meet your needs.
   
   
4. What is the Cost: When leasing, ask about the end of lease options. What is best for you $1.00 purchase option or Fair Market Value. Ask about hidden charges such as documentation fees, insurance, interest rate, lease return clause and return fees.



5. Ask " How Can We Save Money" without losing productivity or quality: Any rep worth their weight in salt will be able to structure a cost savings proposal for you. However, you need to ask.