What Managed Print Services (MPS) Actually Means

Written by Sarah Dodrill | May 8, 2026 1:45:00 PM

Why 'MPS' sounds more complicated than it is 

The terms MPS (managed print services) and MSP (managed service provider) are thrown around a lot and sometimes interchangeably, but it isn't as intimidating as it sounds. MPS is about simplifying your print environment, controlling your devices, and cost savings. Managed print services can help reduce issues surrounding unpredictable costs, too many printers, and constant maintenance issues. 

What MPS actually is

Simply defined MPS is outsourcing the management of office printing. Day-to-day, nothing much will change, you and your team will continue printing as normal while an external team manages optimization and ongoing maintenance for your devices. MPS can benefit small-mid size businesses, multi-printer offices, and growing teams with cost savings, enhanced productivity, improved security, and environmental benefits. 

What MPS typically includes

  1. 1. Printer and device management
      1. - Remote monitoring of devices
        - Usage tracking and performance
        - Preemptively identifying problems
  2. 2. Supplies and toner management
      1. - Automatic toner replacement
        - No more emergency supply runs or overstocked closets
  3. 3. Maintenance and support
      1. - Service, repairs, and replacement parts
        - Reduced downtime
        - One point of contact instead of multiple vendors
  4. 4. Usage reports and optimization 
      1. - Monthly print volumes
        - Waste identification (color misuse or oversized devices)
        - Data driven recommendations

What MPS is NOT

It is a common misconception that MPS are just for large teams and enterprises, but MPS can actually help small teams and businesses even more. There is no "one size fits all" MPS, there is an assessment to analyze your current devices and printing processes before the provider makes recommendations or changes. The business still has control with MPS, managed print services just help your team with processes that often go forgotten or mismanaged. Finally, MPS do not lock you into overprices printers, they analyze your print environment and make recommendations based on your team's size and printing needs, plus it is a scalable service. 

How MPS Helps Control Printing Costs

There are a few ways MPS help control your teams printing costs, the first is predictable monthly expenses. MPS charge a predetermined amount based on the number of printers in your environment and the average printing volume of your team, the bill will always be the same unless an abnormal amount of printing causes your team to go over the predetermined printing volume. Going over usage is unlikely with the right sized devices for your team's usage. Another way MPS controls costs is through maintenance, fewer surprise repair bills stack up to major savings. Having MPS will reveal long-term savings over the reactive repairs needed in an unmanaged environment. 

How Crew-Tech Approaches Managed Print Services

Crew-Tech's approach to MPS focuses on simplicity and transparency. We provide tailored solutions for each business instead of fitting businesses into a cookie-cutter mold. We view our customers as partners, explaining every step of the process. Crew-Tech has been supporting partners for over 40 years, and we are happy to provide our expertise, as well as ongoing support. 

Is Managed Print Services Worth It?

Managed Print Services isn’t about changing how your team works, it’s about making printing easier, more predictable, and more cost‑effective behind the scenes. When done right, MPS removes the day‑to‑day frustrations of managing printers, supplies, and repairs while giving your business better visibility and control over printing costs. Instead of reacting to problems as they happen, MPS creates a proactive, optimized print environment that grows with your business.

If printing feels harder, more expensive, or more time‑consuming than it should, it may be time to take a closer look at how your print environment is managed. With the right approach and the right partner, Managed Print Services can be a simple solution to a long‑standing office challenge. If you're located within the greater Wilmington area, contact Crew-Tech today!