Distributed vs. Centralized Approach to Output
In a distributed approach to output, multiple, lower-priced devices are spread throughout an organization.
Advantages:
- Convenience
- Acquisition cost
- No risk of being out of business if single device fails
- One way to control costs (e.g. giving color to just one user group)
Disadvantages:
- Cost per page is higher
- Products are slower, fewer capabilities/options (e.g. finishing)
- Limit on monthly volumes
- Environmental
Possible other considerations: If products come from a variety of vendors, user training and admin support become issues; if lower priced devices are not on service agreements, employees will have burden of support/repair.
In a centralized approach to output, customers are looking to centralize resources and limit the number of devices in the enterprise in an effort to reduce the costs and burdens associated with managing multiple devices, each requiring numerous supplies. The advantages and disadvantages are the converse of the distributed approach.
We recommend having a combination of the two approaches, with larger, more-robust devices located in a centralized location, along with smaller, less-capable devices closer to users’ workstations for the typical jobs. A document assessment conducted by a professional organization could help to determine the best way to manage your print environment.