Masterpiece Studios was using a variety of older printers, analog copiers, and a few older fax machines throughout their facility for document output. They were running various preprinted paper stocks through the machines that continually jammed, which led to frustrated employees and decreased productivity.

Chris Bollman, IT Manager for Masterpiece Studios, initiated the process of researching a print management solution that would meet their needs and keep their employees productive.

Chris contacted Masterpiece Studios’ parent company to learn more about the print management solution and service Marco has been providing them over the past couple years. He had heard good things about their program and wanted to find out how Marco could help resolve Masterpiece Studios’ printing issues as well.

Chris met with Eric Casteel, Marco Field Sales Manager, to review their current printing needs. They tracked the number of copies/prints for two months (for each department) to get an approximate volume and talked to the department managers to find out their needs and necessary equipment feature requirements. Then Chris and Eric added up the number of copies/prints and put together a “dream” plan for each department.

Marco put together three different solutions, with Masterpiece Studios selecting the “middle of the road” solution which consisted of 12 new units including a mix of networked multifunction HP and Sharp printers. The new multifunction printers allow their departments to print, copy, fax, and scan to email all from one unit, eliminating the need for multiple fax machines and printers. The new printers are also able to handle their preprinted paper stocks without jamming. In addition, they have a networked Sharp color imager in their sales and marketing department on which they produce approximately 3,000 color copies per month. The program allowed them to go from 20 different devices (that could not scan to email) to 15 units—most of which scan, print, copy, and fax.

Marco set Masterpiece Studios up on a Managed Account Program—a flexible financing program that allows them to upgrade to all new equipment with no upfront costs. They just pay for the number of copies/prints generated each month. The program includes the equipment, service, and supplies—everything except paper and network troubleshooting services. Masterpiece Studios was also able to add some of their existing laser printers to this program.

Chris commented, “It would have taken us a few years to replace our older machines with new equipment. Marco’s Print Management Program allowed us to upgrade to new equipment right away with capabilities that we did not have before such as the scan to email feature.”

John Kind, President of Masterpiece Studios, added, “I really liked the idea that we got all this new equipment with no initial investment. I really believe that when our copiers are down, it hurts our morale. I think the fact that we have new machines with a lot less down time and improved copy quality has improved our morale.”

Chris was also pleased with the sales process. “I liked the fact that when Eric came in, he did a walk around with me,” said Chris. “He showed interest in our company.”

When it came to the installation of the new units, Marco installed the machines one department at a time and then trained each of their department staff immediately after installation. Chris commented, “Eric was very flexible in coming in and training our staff.”

Today, Masterpiece Studio’s print management program is working very well for them. John commented, “Chris did a really nice job in working with each of our departments and Marco in advance. The majority of our people seem to be a lot happier with the new machines. We like the scan to email feature on the new units.”

John added, “When we upgrade to new technologies, we look for things that make us more efficient. I think Marco has done a good job for us. Our employees are much happier and it has made us more efficient.”

Masterpiece Studio is also using Marco’s online service and supply system. “Marco’s Web site allows us to quickly create service calls and purchase supplies,” said Chris. “It’s very efficient and a lot easier than picking up the phone. And most of our supplies come the next day. I also like the fact that we have technicians that come out right away—they’re prompt. If we have questions, concerns, or ideas, they’re always addressed.”

Masterpiece Studios is located in North Mankato, Minnesota, and employs approximately 176 people. They  manufacture a wide array of papers and cards such as laser and inkjet and decorated papers, easy-to-print invitations, social and wedding kits, poster boards, business stationery, and certificates and accessories.