Next Generation MPS has the potential to touch many areas within your company, as your level of commitment moves from basic fleet management to information security, workflow automation and ongoing analytics. Naturally, this expansion into existing technology and workflow might make IT a little edgy. There are valid reasons for concern, and that’s why it’s important to work with an MPS provider who understands the delicate dance of technology integration.
Assimilating Your Entire Enterprise Document Workflow
MPS integration occurs on several levels. One relates to connecting the full span of document workflow across a large enterprise. While this is the optimal approach for many large enterprises with many document needs, in reality, few MPS providers are capable of supporting the entire range of document output. The outcome is that companies must go to one vendor for office output, and another for production printing. As a result, document workflow synergies and efficiencies are diminished and uncoordinated.
One Stop. One Neck.
Another aspect of integration to consider is when MPS providers work with partners to add specialized services and capabilities, like security and analytics. Smooth integration with third parties is important, so enterprises don’t have to deal with managing several vendors for multiple enterprise needs. Look for the MPS provider that is willingly accountable for testing, support and results. IT also wants assurance that these solutions will work as promised within the MPS environment with a minimal amount of disruption.
What’s the Integration Capacity?
Integrated solutions and systems create greater efficiency and holistic insights into overall performance and opportunity. The truth is, integration is a fact of life when it comes to enterprise technology, including managed print services. The difference is in how it’s introduced and managed, so look for a provider who doesn’t fear integration.
A high capacity for integration is a key capability in a Next Gen MPS provider. Use these questions to determine how comfortable and capable a potential MPS partner is with integrated workflow and solutions.
Integration Checklist Questions
- Does the MPS vendor integrate workflow from one end of the document spectrum to the other? Can they go from the desktop to the print shop?
- Does the MPS vendor step up and assume responsibility for all the elements of the MPS strategy, including third party solutions?
- How does the MPS provider deliver services involving third-party tools?
- Does the provider consolidate billing, so even though they work with partners, you only see one invoice?
- Does the MPS provider introduce continuous innovation through strategic relationships with leading partners?
- Does the MPS provider use third-party relationships to deliver industry-specific workflows?
This recent IDC report looks at new Xerox Next Generation MPS innovation, including offerings developed with third-party industry partners.
