printmanagement

Print management refers to the administration and optimization of printing devices, queues, and processes within an organization. It encompasses planning, deployment, monitoring, and support of printers, multifunction devices, and related technologies to ensure reliable access, controlled costs, and security.

Core elements include the print infrastructure (print servers, drivers, and queues), user authentication and access control, and print policies that govern color use, duplex printing, and quotas. A central management layer can discover devices, provision drivers, enforce policies, perform monitoring, and balance workloads across devices.

Functions commonly supported by print management solutions include centralized administration, secure printing (such as pull or follow-me printing), job accounting, usage reporting, and device health analytics. Integration with directory services enables user-based permissions and cost-center accounting. Solutions may be deployed on-premises, in the cloud, or in a hybrid model and may support mobile and BYOD printing.

Benefits typically include reduced waste and spend, improved security and compliance, and simplified administration. Challenges can include privacy concerns, driver compatibility, compatibility with existing IT systems, and the need for ongoing policy governance.

Standards and interoperability are enabled by protocols such as the Internet Printing Protocol (IPP) and its variants, as well as common printer languages like PostScript and PCL. Security considerations include encryption in transit, secure print release, and data retention policies.

Related concepts include managed print services (MPS), print-management software, and cloud print services.