Total Cost of Ownership
In the market for a new multifunctional printer (MFP)? Ask one question before you invest in your new print device: what is its total cost of ownership?
Many businesses are still making the mistake of purchasing multifunctional printers (MFPs) based on price without looking at the total life operating cost. These lifetime costs can be two to three times the original investment.
Reach out to American Lazer to learn about the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and why it’s so important to your business.
Total Cost of Ownership
The total cost of owning an MFP is more than just the sticker price. It also includes running costs, environmental impact, and support contracts. The cost of running an MFP is often spread out among different departmental budgets while the purchasing department only sees the initial capital expenditure.
What is the true cost of ownership? There are five things you should look at when trying to determine the cost over the lifespan of the MFP:
1. Running Costs
Running costs include printing on different mediums and the frequency of printing. These costs also include internal components that could require replacement (toner cartridges, the OPC drum, fusing oil, waste toner collector, transfer belt, etc). Some models will have components that last the lifetime of the machine. A helpful method of determining the TCO of an MFP is to work out the cost per page. Divide the price of each consumable component (toner, drum, waste toner bottle, etc.) by the number of pages in its page yield. Add up all the results, add media costs, and you have a cost per page.
2. Service Costs
The service and support offered by the MFP manufacturer or dealer will be a major factor in the purchasing decision. When an MFP breaks down, you need to know if someone can fix the problem before the interruption affects productivity. In addition to service requests, how does the warranty affect the costs?
3. User intervention
The more time spent by staff fixing paper jams, filling paper trays, changing toner cartridges, ordering supplies, and waiting for prints to finish, takes a toll on overall productivity.
4. Power Costs
Power usage is one of the hidden costs of running an MFP. Investing in Energy Star compliant MFPs is a good way of saving money.
5. Environment Impact
Look for long-life components, recycling programs, and eco-friendly manufacturing practices from green companies, such as Kyocera, which help lower greenhouse emissions.
When looking to invest in an MFP, many elements need to be counted to find the true total cost of ownership. For help calculating your TCO or purchasing your next MFP, contact the experts at American Lazer who will answer all your questions and get you the best machine for your needs.
For more information, contact American Lazer by clicking here or call (866) 922-9003.
