I'm curious about how different offices handle printer management and the ordering of consumables. We have a mix of multi-function printers on contracts with automatic toner deliveries, but also some older smaller printers that we've accumulated over the years. What systems do you guys have in place to ensure that you get toner ordered in time? Do you keep track of when new toner is installed or monitor usage? I often hear complaints from users because they run out of toner unexpectedly, and I want to find a better solution.
8 Answers
All our printers operate under contract. We’ve set a rule that no printer can be bought unless it can have a contract for service. This means less hassle with managing inventories and supply issues.
We have a list of printers and their toner types managed by another department. They usually order a new toner when they get the 'toner low' notice, but it can lead to delays if they misjudge the timing or if there’s a backorder.
We use a system where you print to a central queue and then retrieve your documents by swiping a badge at any printer, which limits the need for personal printers. If you need toner, you know it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep track of that.
We mostly leave it up to our office admins to manage consumables. It's just not worth IT's time to track every little detail. If someone needs toner, they go to the admin team.
For us, it's all the office manager’s responsibility. We just connect them to the network, and they take care of the rest. We also have our vendors set up to notify us when toner is low, which is super helpful!
I avoid dealing with printers as much as possible! All our printers are managed through a software called Papercut, which simplifies things under our contract, but I still dread the printer issues.
We've standardized our printers, and all main devices come with service contracts that include automatic toner resupply. For personal printers, we tell users to order their toners themselves. It keeps everything running smoothly!
We work with a third-party service for printer maintenance. Since it’s more of a logistical challenge than a technical one, they handle the consumable logistics for us, which simplifies everything.
Totally agree! We had a user ask IT to set up a recurring delivery for their personal home printer. We just told them to sort it out themselves or contact admin for help.