Hewlett-Packard is in the networked printer business, offering a variety of inkjet and laser printers suitable for most corporate environments. When organizations look to install printers to support everyday corporate needs, however, HP says many tend to overlook these four "hidden" costs:

* Network management. Shared printers need network connections and management. This cost may be low for one or two printers, but a growing printer population will demand increased network management time, HP says.

* Infrastructure. Beyond the obvious infrastructure cost of the required network node for a printer, organizations sometimes fail to calculate the cost of the valuable desktop and floor space the printer takes up. In some cases, an organization’s printing needs may require an entire computer room. HP says organizations need to be sure to add the associated floor space costs, construction costs and common infrastructure costs, such as electricity and air conditioning, into their TCO calculations.

* Actual usage. HP says that many organizations have users who spend valuable time using the wrong printer for their requirements. This costs both time and money, especially if they are overloading a small printer, forcing you to constantly add supplies such as paper and ink cartridges. End-user education and training, as well as proper printer setups can help reduce these costs.

* Software. Know the software required for your projects and budget for it. Although many printers come with major print drivers, etc., some special print projects may require special drivers or software upgrades. Make sure you take that into consideration.

For more information, visit HP here.