The August Test:
A Better Way for Schools to Evaluate Office Equipment

Summer is when many schools evaluate copiers, printers, and other office equipment. It's easy to get caught up comparing speeds, features, and specifications. But before making a decision, ask one simple question: Will this make August easier?

When teachers return, they don't care about model numbers or equipment specifications. They care whether the equipment works when they need it.

What Matters When School Starts

A successful start to the school year depends on reliable equipment.

Schools need:

• Copiers that are ready on day one
• Fast service when issues arise
• Toner and supplies available when needed
• Equipment that can handle back-to-school volume
• Minimal downtime during the busiest time of the year

Newer Isn't Always Better

The best copier isn't necessarily the one with the most features.

The best copier is the one that helps teachers prepare lessons, allows office staff to do their jobs efficiently, and doesn't create unnecessary interruptions.

A reliable machine with strong local support often provides more value than a feature-packed device that becomes a headache to maintain.

Questions to Ask Before Replacing Equipment

As you evaluate your current fleet this summer, consider:

• Is the equipment reliable?
• Are teachers waiting on broken machines?
• Is service response time meeting expectations?
• Are operating costs under control?
• Will this equipment support the school's needs for the next several years?

The Goal: Remove Obstacles

The schools that have the smoothest August aren't always the ones with the newest equipment.

They're the ones that used the summer to remove obstacles before teachers and students returned.