What is it?
The Managed Print Services (MPS) program provides shared, centrally managed printers and copiers across campus. These devices are owned and supported by Systel, UNCG’s contracted print services vendor.
MPS 2.0 is the next phase of the program, designed to:
- Provide access to newer, more reliable devices strategically placed across campus for shared use.
- Make printing more convenient, consistent, and sustainable for everyone at UNCG.
- Shift costs and usage to follow the person printing instead of the department that owns the printer.
Why Are We Doing It?
Technology keeps evolving, and with it comes smarter, more cost-effective ways to meet campus needs. Printing is one of those areas where small improvements can create big benefits.
MPS 2.0 introduces several key improvements:
- Convenience: Send a print job and release it securely at any MPS printer by swiping your Spartan ID card.
- Reliability: Modern printers that handle heavy use with fewer jams, faster speeds, and better support.
- Fairness: Departments and students are billed only for what they actually print—no more covering others’ costs.
- Sustainability: Fewer, more efficient devices that reduce waste, save energy, and lower costs across the university.
A major change in MPS 2.0:
- In the current model, the department that owns a printer pays for all printing done on that device.
- Under MPS 2.0, costs and usage follow the person printing, not the device.
- This change encourages shared use, ensures fairness across campus, and simplifies budgeting for departments.
Over the past year, ITS has worked with departments to inventory existing printers and has partnered with an external higher-education print specialist to assess campus printing and recommend best practices for a sustainable, future-focused model.
How will I be impacted?
Faculty and Staff
- You’ll print as usual, but now you can release your job securely at any MPS printer using your Spartan ID.
- Departments will no longer manage or pay for specific printers; printing costs will be billed back to the person or department responsible for the job.
- Printers will be placed in shared, convenient locations based on usage and building layout.
- Smaller, personal, or department-owned printers may be retired as part of the transition.
Students
- You’ll continue to pay only for the pages you print.
- You’ll have access to the same upgraded printers across campus—in labs, residence halls, and public spaces.
- Simply send your print job and use your Spartan ID to release it securely at any MPS printer.
Specialty Printing
- Devices such as blueprint, 3D, or ID card printers will continue to follow separate approval and support processes.
When will this be implemented?
- Summer–Fall 2025: Site visits and assessments are underway to review current devices and printing patterns.
- Early 2026: ITS will share proposed printer placements and billing recommendations with departments for feedback.
- 2026: Campuswide transition to MPS 2.0 begins, with phased device replacements and rollout of follow-me billing.
What do I need to do?
- Engage in consultations – When contacted, provide feedback on proposed printer placements for your area.
- Begin using MPS printers – As new devices are deployed, use your Spartan ID to release print jobs securely.
- Reach out for help – Contact 6-TECH if you have questions about printer locations or printing options.
Your input and participation will help ensure the managed print program meets the academic, administrative, and operational needs of our community while providing modern, secure, and sustainable printing services.
More Information
You can find additional guidance and procedures here:
- Managed Print Services (MPS) at UNCG — Overview of the MPS program.
- Managed Print Services (MPS) Program Procedure — Guidance on departmental and individual responsibilities under MPS.