HP inks printing deal with NSW DET

HP will roll out up to 15,000 laser printing devices across 2,400 public schools, 130 TAFEs and DET state offices in NSW in the first year under the terms of a three year contract.

It will roll out small, medium and large mono and colour, single function and multifunction HP LaserJet Printers and HP will also supply toner and associated services.

“This roll out is a long-term commitment by the Department to technology upgrades, which is why after an exhaustive process, we chose to partner with HP for our laser printing needs,” said Paul Hopkins, chief procurement officer, DET (pictured).

“They are a key partner in our new integrated imaging solution which includes multi function devices (MFDs), laser and inkjet printers and facsimiles.

“We wanted to provide our teachers with access to market leading technology in all these areas that is sustainable and which offers the lowest cost of ownership to schools, TAFEs and to the Department,” he added.

The DET is replacing up to 65,000 of its current imaging devices with up to 30,000 new devices.

This includes going from a wide range of laser printer suppliers to just one, which it claims will make device and supplier management easier.

HP was selected via a competitive tender process linked to the State Government imaging devices contract.

“HP provided an extensive response in the sourcing process," said Hopkins.

"While we achieved a very good price it was only part of the decision making process. HP’s supply capacity, service capabilities, extensive resources and global experience made them stand out above other laser print vendors,” he added.

The rollout began on 1 April 2008 with the educational institutions that provided the most opportunity for improvement together with schools that proactively chose to take advantage of the new contract at an early stage.

“Nearly 5 percent of DET’s fleet of laser printers has already been changed with a further 10,000 and up to 15,000 devices expected to be replaced before 30 August 2009,” said Max Kaye, business manager of LaserJet and Enterprise Solutions, HP Imaging & Printing, South Pacific.