Diversifying IT strategies is a vital move for small to medium sized businesses, schools, and non-profit organizations.

Have you ever wondered why copiers are now commonly referred to as MFPs or MFDs? MFP stands for "multifunction printer," MFD stands for "multifunctional device" and are terms that have become increasingly popular in recent years. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons behind this shift in terminology and what it means for the world of office technology.

First, let's take a step back and look at the history of copiers. The first copiers were invented in the early 1900s and were primarily used for making copies of documents. Over time, copiers became more advanced and were able to perform additional functions, such as scanning and faxing. However, these functions were often performed by separate machines, which could be cumbersome and expensive.

In the 1990s, a new type of machine emerged that combined the functions of a copier, scanner, and fax machine into a single device. These machines were called "multifunction printers" or MFPs for short. The term "printer" was added to the name because these machines are also capable of printing documents, making them even more versatile.

So why the shift from "copier" to "MFP"or even "MFD"? One reason is that the term "copier" no longer accurately describes what these machines are capable of. While they still make copies of documents, they can also perform a wide range of other functions, such as scanning, faxing, and printing. The term "MFP" or "MFD" reflects this versatility and better describes what these machines can do.

Another reason for the shift in terminology is that the lines between different types of office technology have become increasingly blurred. In the past, copiers, printers, scanners, and fax machines were all separate devices. However, with the rise of MFPs, these functions are now often combined into a single machine. As a result, it made more sense to refer to these machines as "multifunction printers" rather than by their individual functions.  Now, we are seeing an increase in digital document workflow, processes and management.  This has caused a shift from the primary function being a printer to the primary function being a scanner, which is why the term MFD or Multifunctional Device is becoming more popular.

In conclusion, the shift from "copier" to "MFP" to "MFD" reflects the increasing versatility of office technology and the blurring of lines between different types of machines. While the term "copier" may still be used in some contexts, "MFP" has become the preferred term for describing a "printing device" and "MFD" for more versatile and multifunctional devices. So the next time you're in the market for a new office machine, remember to look for an MFP or an MFD that can handle all your document needs in one convenient package.

Every company has a responsibility to the environment, and using sustainable printer ink can help with this eco obligation.

Tired of dealing with old, nonfunctioning printers but finding it hard to convince the powers that be to purchase new ones? Here are five great reasons that getting a new fleet is beneficial:

Managed print services (MPS) are a collection of services provided by a third party that is focused on optimizing or otherwise managing an organization’s output of documents. In general, these external providers offer an up-front assessment of needs, challenges, and current infrastructure; ongoing replacement of hardware; and ongoing maintenance, service, and other parts and supplies required for optimal function of the print environment.

MPS programs are typically initiated with the idea of cutting costs for an organization. Along with direct cost cutting that involves print devices and supplies, opportunities to improve workflows are often discovered. Sustainability is naturally improved by increasing the efficiency of document production and lifecycles.

While almost any industry can make use of increased productivity, better efficiency, and cost savings, for some industries that handle a high flow of data through paper-based documentation, even the smallest of changes can amount to a huge transformation in the way they conduct — and profit from — business.

There is a wide array of print management software available today. The functionality of each varies somewhat, so you need to know what to look for to best serve your organization’s needs.

Known as the Razor Blade Strategy, you sell a low priced product tied to a higher priced consumable item that is needed on an ongoing basis.  This was HP's (Hewlett-Packard) Printer Business Model for many years and many desktop printer manufacturers followed right along.  For the Managed Print Services (MPS) Providers, these were easy targets to be able to save customers thousands of dollars.

If your business is like ours, you and your co-workers are still working remotely as much as possible.  Whether you enjoy working remotely or not, the Coronavirus Pandemic is certainly changing the way we work and how we deal with protecting our assets and data.  Here are a few useful tips and statistics for you to consider.