Replacing office equipment is hardly anyone's favorite maintenance task, but it can be one of the most critical to ensuring your business is running as efficiently as it can. Copiers are very different than other pieces of equipment because they show little external wear and tear and the signs of an ailing copier aren't common knowledge for most people. Here are three things to watch for that can signal the time to upgrade.
1. Your Printing Costs Are Increasing
Copiers will start to consume more and more as they get near the end of their life. Keeping an eye on your printing costs can help you narrow down when an upgrade is pending, and if you notice that you are replacing toner more often than usual make sure to call your print services provider and ask for an assessment of your printing fleet.
2. You Are Making Too Many Service Calls
If you are noticing that you have to call your print service company for repair and service a few times a month, then you might need to look into an upgrade. Most modern copiers have more moving pieces than modern cars and trucks. Those parts will wear down over time, and that is an awful lot of parts to break. Next time you have to make a service call ask them for some upgrade recommendations.
3. Your Office Is Beyond Your Copier Regarding Technology
Copiers haven't exactly been known as living on the bleeding edge of technology and the increases in functionality that have come around with mobile devices and print-from-anywhere tech. A sign that you are due for an upgrade may be that you are using technology that is beyond your copier, or that your team is asking you if your copier can do this or that operation. Ask your account manager about the new technologies available in modern printers.
Next Steps
If you find that it is necessary to upgrade soon call your print services company and see what options you have and consider them carefully.