The unprecedented business disruptions in many places ensuing from the Coronavirus Pandemic caused considerable inconvenience for both printer repair and service firms and their customers. One helpful self-sufficiency strategy employed by some companies during this period has involved the use of secure backup printers. This approach frequently works well in conjunction with managed print services. Yet it also offers advantages for firms with numerous local employees who might require emergency access to a functional printer.
Adjusting to Remote Work Sites
Computer repairers continue to furnish valuable assistance to customers during this period. Particularly in locations impacted extensively by a resurgence of Covid-19, delays in obtaining repair services may occur from time to time. Supply chain disruptions plagued repair industries during the pandemic (due to slower manufacturing of electronic components for certain brands).
During 2020, some businesses have succeeded in maintaining efficient operations even while relying extensively upon a remote workforce. Frequently, for security reasons employers don’t allow home-based workers to print out business documents from their home computer systems. Additionally, the steep cost of ink and toner may hinder this practice. One British finance writer recently complained some ink cartridges by volume today cost more than luxury goods. Providing a secure company-based printer at enterprise headquarters exclusively for the use of staff members and employees during work-related printing emergencies offers a potentially helpful business resource.
Selecting a Printer For Emergency Uses
In the past, some businesses relegated older models of printers to employee break rooms. Now this equipment may serve a morale-building purpose by supporting home-based employees in need of emergency printer support. Using office-based printers offers a valuable alternative for some firms when workers reside within commuting distance.
Companies choosing to allow their employees to use their printers on an emergency basis may discover benefits in developing protocols for this service. Asking a worker to sign a log or otherwise register their use of the office printer may prove important in preventing an abuse of access. Additionally, a firm may choose to require a supervisor to approve the request. Companies which already subscribe to managed print services (“MPS”) enjoy an advantage in implementing this strategy during the Coronavirus Pandemic.
