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This paid piece is courtesy of SiouxFalls.Business.
The same company that helps manage your data and IT, security, phone system and other tech-related needs now can support your workplace printing and copying too.
Sioux Falls-based Direct has launched the offering “as a way to address copy-print solutions for our customers,” founder and CEO Paul Zweifel said. “We’ve been looking for the right way to offer copy-printers and related supplies, and were led to a great solution.”
The company is a growing family of businesses that largely are tech-focused, including:
- Process and machine automation.
- Custom software and data management.
- Phone systems.
- Managed IT.
- Security system services.
- Design and fabrication services of electrical and mechanical systems.
Direct’s new all-inclusive office printing service is delivered in partnership with Minnesota-based Katun, which offers a variety of multifunction printers.
“We’re confident in the product, the quality and the service,” Zweifel said. “We’ve been working with them to train our team on their products and support all elements of the business.”
Direct customers will be able to purchase new Katun multifunction printers or purchase nearly all major brands through Katun’s third-party network. There also are options to lease the equipment. A church that might need only a weekly bulletin printed, for example, can contract with Direct to do that work and then pick up the copies or have them delivered.
No matter which approach customers choose, Direct’s managed print services offer flat-rate printing with a predictable monthly cost covering devices, toner, service and support.
“We’ve had customers see the products already through a soft launch internally, so we expect to get good traction,” said Joe Henderson, IT director of Workplace by Direct, which includes the new print services.
“We also can help with any type of add-on, from fax to scanning and copying as well as additional tools for hole punching, stapling and folding.”
Options for printing can be tailored to a customer’s needs but include features such as:
- Unlimited printing: Print in black or color without worrying about how much you’re printing.
- Toner included and auto-shipped.
- On-site service and maintenance: All repairs, routine service and device optimization are included.
- Remote monitoring and proactive alerts.
Customers also receive the Workplace Guarantee: Buy the printer through Workplace and if it fails within three years, it will be replaced with a like or better model. If a device is down more than 48 hours, get a loaner and credit toward a replacement. Leased printers are covered under your contract with fast service and replacement if needed.
Direct has a full display at its Sioux Falls office, so customers can do test prints and explore the functionality. Its own team members have been using Katun printers too.
“Our office is loving it,” Henderson said. “We had our technicians demonstrate them, and we think the quality is great, and it’s a better user experience.”
Some of the newer technology incorporated into Direct’s offerings include a “find me, follow me” feature, eliminating sensitive documents sitting unattended at a printer while the owner comes to retrieve them.
“This allows you to walk up to any multifunction copier-printer, type in your PIN, and you can print,” Zweifel said.
Monitoring software also will track usage and predict when supplies or maintenance could be needed.
“Your costs will be very measurable, and there’s no cost-per-print scenario,” Zweifel said. “We plan to have several technicians trained in Sioux Falls and at a new office in Rapid City. I think people will be pleasantly surprised by the service.”
Customers will be able to replace many components on their own or with remote guidance from Direct.
“These machines are very reliable and easy to use, so I think we’ve found a great product and great service at a great price,” Zweifel said.
“A lot of people end up oversold on their printer. They get a big machine with features that barely get used, or there are mini-printers all over the office, and we’re in it to be a trusted solution that values excellence and wants our customers to spend their money like we’d spend our own.”
Because Direct already is servicing customers’ IT needs, “we know their habits and can recommend the scale of printer they really need,” Henderson said.
“Because we also manage the network, we can ensure the printers are secure, have updated firmware and are not touching your administrative network. The fewer people who have access to a network leads to a more secure environment.”
Direct serves the entire state of South Dakota, into southern North Dakota, western Minnesota and northwestern Iowa.
The new managed print services are an example of the company’s broader vision, Zweifel said.
“We want to supply all the technology at an office other than fire alarm,” he said. “Watch for more products on the wireless side that closes the loop for us. We’re excited by what will be rolling out.”
