Copier/MFP

Introduction

The convergence of print, copy and scan technologies has given rise to a new breed of technology that is transforming the way businesses handle document imaging. Recognizing the benefits of centralized document imaging devices with multiple functionality, traditional printer companies have designed new products to streamline document-imaging workflow. At the same time, traditional copier companies have expanded their offerings the same way.

During the last several years, PRC has become the definitive source of information on the Canadian printer and consumables market. The Copier/MFP study enhances ERC’s presence as the premiere provider of information on the Canadian document imaging market.

Products Covered

Single function copier section – shipments by:
- Speed band (colour versus monochrome)[1]

Vendor shares by speed band (<30ppm and >30ppm)
Distribution channel
Vendor

MFP section – shipments by:
- Speed band (colour versus monochrome)
- Vendor shares by speed band (<30ppm and >30ppm)
- Distribution channel
- Vendor
- Connectivity (print, fax, scan)

Click here for current snapshot

Scope of Research

PRC’s Copier/MFP Segment Update Program provides extensive analyses of copier and MFP shipments. Quarterly reports are based on a two-page questionnaire, with the first page devoted to single function copiers, and the second, to laser MFPs (which include digital copiers). Please note that consumer inkjet MFPs are not included since they represent a different market and are already covered in PRC’s printer segment report.

A typical PRC quarterly report provides data on a quarter-by-quarter basis for each product segment from the prior year with forecasts through to the end of the current year. Annual historical information is provided for the previous two years with forecasts for the current year and two years into the future. These forecasts are continuously reviewed and revised where necessary based on current information and economic and industry trends.

Supplementary Research:

Reseller Research
- In-depth survey of resellers segmented by reseller category: Consultant, independent dealer, VARs/SIs, National SIs and Mass/Franchise Retailers.
- Assessment of who their customers are and what they expect to spend on IT over the next six months.
- Assessment of what products/technologies will be in demand over the next six months to two years.
- Analyses of primary and secondary vendors by technology and the resellers’ level of satisfaction with their suppliers and products.

End-User Research
- Periodic surveying of various groups of end-users: Government, Small/Medium Business and Financial Post 500.
- Assessment of IT budgets and segmentation of spending by products/technologies.
- Analyses of the applications which will see increased funding in coming years.
- Analyses of the vendors they are using and their level of satisfaction with the companies and their products.

The most salient findings of PRC’s end-user research are presented in the quarterly reports on an on-going basis.

Methodology

As with all of PRC’s Segment Update Programs, the vendors themselves are the key source of information. On a quarterly basis, PRC sends a questionnaire to each vendor at the end of each calendar quarter. The data are analyzed in the subsequent month, and a report is prepared and delivered prior to the end of the second month after the end of the quarter.

Additionally, PRC has established relationships with industry partners at both the retail and distribution levels. These sources are used to verify vendor claims and, where necessary, assist in the development of shipment data for vendors for which vendor data is not available.

Timing of Publication

PRC’s research covers the four calendar quarters: January through March, April through June, July through September and October through December. Data is collected in the month following the end of a quarter. Reports are typically released in the last week of the second month following the end of a quarter.

Deliverable

Each quarter, segment customers receive electronic access (through password protected site) for unlimited internal distribution.

Cost

Contact PRC for pricing information.

Contact Information

PRC Sales – Sophie Bodnar / 416.621.8814 sbodnar@partnerresearch.ca

PRC Segment Analyst – Carole Small / 416.621.8814 csmall@partnerresearch.ca

PRC Projects – Steve Parker / 416.621.8814 sparker@partnerresearch.ca

[1] The copier industry has established standard speed bands and these are used in the quarterly reports: sub-11 ppm, 11-20 ppm, 21-30 ppm, 31-40 ppm, 41-69 ppm, 70-90 ppm.