The terms print management vs managed print services are often used interchangeably — but they describe different solutions with different scopes. Understanding the distinction helps you choose the right approach for your business.
What Is Print Management?
Print management refers to overseeing and optimising an organisation’s printing activity. This covers device management, supply ordering, print procurement, and ensuring that print resources are allocated efficiently. It can be handled in-house or outsourced to a specialist provider such as LMG’s print management service.
The key benefits include cost savings through better supplier pricing, improved consistency across printed materials, and reduced time spent managing print projects internally. For a deeper look at the case for outsourcing, see our post on why to use a print management company.
What Are Managed Print Services?
Managed print services (MPS) go further. An MPS provider takes full responsibility for an organisation’s entire print environment — hardware, software, consumables, maintenance, and support. Businesses typically pay a monthly fee or a per-page rate, with the provider handling everything end to end.
MPS suits organisations with complex, high-volume print infrastructure that need a single supplier to manage it all. The focus is on device uptime, compliance, and total cost of ownership across a large fleet.
Key Differences at a Glance
Scope
Print management concentrates on procurement, production, and cost control for printed materials. MPS covers the physical devices and the infrastructure that supports them.
Cost Structure
Print management costs relate to the projects and supplies managed. MPS operates on a subscription or per-page model that wraps all device-related costs into one predictable fee.
Implementation
Print management can be introduced gradually and scaled to your needs. MPS typically involves a full audit of your device estate followed by a structured rollout managed by the provider.
Which Is Right for Your Business?
If your priority is controlling the cost and quality of your printed marketing materials — brochures, catalogues, direct mail — print management is likely the better fit. If you are managing a large office printer fleet and want a single supplier to take ownership of hardware and support, MPS may suit you better.
Many businesses find that print management delivers the greatest value for their marketing spend. Explore LMG’s print management services or read about the future of print management to see where the industry is heading. Ready to find out more? Get in touch with our team.