OKI managed services to boost VAR revenue

OKI Printing Solutions has launched a range of managed services

OKI Printing Solutions has launched a range of managed services that it has claimed will create additional revenue opportunities for resellers.

Chris Gill, managing director of OKI UK, said. “We estimate that companies who proactively manage their printer fleet with us can save as much as 30 per cent over a three-year managed-services contract. With the market expected to grow to £500m, the opportunity for OKI and our channel partners is huge.”

OKI Printing Solutions Managed Services offers an initial survey to assess a company’s current situation, consultancy to advise on improvements and ongoing management through a series of tools which track time and cost efficiencies over the period of the contract.

David Wilson, director of managed services and solutions at OKI, told CRN: “We think it’s important to give added services to our resellers. The contract will usually tie a customer in for three years and be billed on a quarterly basis. Although we will advise on price points, VARs can charge what they like for the service.

“For resellers that are already inside end-users this will help extend their business further, or help VARs get in with businesses that currently don’t have a preferred or exclusive reseller partner.”

Jason Harcourt, senior analyst at Context, said: “OKI isn’t setting any new ground here – managed services is something a lot of printer vendors are targeting. It’s a logical step for OKI and because it has always targeted the office channel it already has that footing in there.”

Customised services, such as an on-site concierge service and call centre set-up and integration can also be included. Automatic remote monitoring tools proactively manage the entire lifecycle of the asset while ensuring that items are available on time and for the right device, OKI claimed.