The profitability of a printer dealership doesn't solely depend on sales numbers. It’s equally about how efficiently they manage post-sale logistics and operations.
By revisiting how you deploy and manage your printers, significant savings and optimisation can be achieved.
Dropshipping: The New Norm?
As we progress into a more digital era, the traditional means of product delivery are being re-evaluated. Dropshipping printers directly to clients where its possible, not only minimises storage costs but can also expedite the delivery process.
The client gets their product faster, and the dealer reduces overheads - it’s a win-win.
Leveraging Remote Capabilities
Thanks to advancements in technology, dealers can now remotely configure a significant portion of printer settings, sparing on-site visits a lot easier than before. This not only saves time but also reduces the costs associated with dispatching technicians.
Pre-Installation:
Before the printer even arrives at its destination, dealers can have it pre-configured according to the client's needs. Settings related to security, print quality, user access, and more.
Post-Installation
For configurations that require the printer to be on the client's network, technicians can often connect remotely and finalise settings, further reducing the need for on-site presence.
Automation: The Silent Profit-Maximiser
Automated solutions can handle a myriad of tasks that previously required manual intervention.
Consider firmware updates, for instance. Instead of manual updates, which can be tedious and time-consuming, automation tools can schedule and execute updates during off-peak hours.
Similarly, any issues that crop up, like paper jams or ink shortages, can be instantly flagged, allowing dealers to address them proactively, often even before the client notices.
The On-site Essentials
While the idea is to reduce on-site visits, there are situations where they're unavoidable. Hardware installations, certain network setups, or specific client requests might necessitate an on-site presence.
However, with most of the groundwork done remotely, these visits can be shorter, more efficient, and more focused.
Conclusion
For printer dealers, the path to enhanced profitability is more than just sales. Optimising logistics and having a clear strategy on pre- and post installations, including more remote management capabilites, for how to manage devices post-installation is crucial.
By embracing dropshipping, leveraging remote capabilities, and incorporating automation, dealers can streamline their operations, reduce costs, and provide quicker, more efficient service.
The future is digital, and those who adapt stand to gain the most.