If your office has decided to purchase a new printer here are some tips for your buying decision.
 
Purpose:  Are you buying a printer to print photos or documents?  If your needs are simple and you usually print photos (not professional quality) or simply print emails or map directions then an inkjet printer will probably be just fine.  But remember that inkjet printer ink is subject to dampness and moisture.  If the page gets wet the ink will run and your document is ruined.  If your need is letters and other documents then a laser printer is a better choice and will cost you less per printed page.  With good quality laser printers starting at $99 for slower print speeds to larger lasers that print in excess of 50 pages per minute there is a printer to fit your needs and budget.  Mono-color (black) and color laser printers have become much more affordable in recent years and make a good choice for most users.
 
Duplex: So much paper is wasted when you could print on both sides of the sheet and cut your paper usage in half.  Although duplex printing may not always be suitable for certain documents consider this option if it applies to your business.
 
To MFP or Not: MFP (Multi-Function Printers) printers have become increasingly popular especially with home office users.  However, if considering this for an office environment a MFP machine utilizing a laser printer engine is much more cost effective. If printing in color is important then perhaps the inkjet MFP may be your best price point with prices starting at $149.  However, these printers have a higher cost per page and the small inkjet cartridges have to be replaced more often due to a lower page yield resulting in a higher cost of operation.  Color laser MFP printers have recently become more widely available with prices starting at $499 after a $100 manufacturer's rebate. 

 
Cost Per Page: Considering the amount of ink in a standard yield inkjet cartridge you will pay as much as $11,264 per gallon for ink. (Calculated at $22 per quarter ounce)  The average inkjet printer cartridge has a page yield of about 300 pages at 5% page coverage.  This equates to about $0.10 cost per page while a laser printer can print as low as $0.02 per page in black and $0.04 per page in color laser.  For mono-color (black only) laser printers consider using a high quality remanufactured toner to further reduce your printing costs.  When shopping for a remanufactured toner cartridge make certain you buy one with a good warranty from a reputable dealer.  Avoid the "toner phoners" who call with 'deals' on remanufactured cartridges. Make your best impression with a high quality cartridge from someone you trust.
 
When considering your new printer purchase bear in mind desk space, budget, number of users and printing volume.  Most printers have a recommended monthly duty cycle so don't buy a printer that is made to print 10,000 pages per month and expect it to hold up when printing 50,000 pages.  Carefully evaluate your needs and consider future growth.  Options such as duplexers, extra paper trays and envelope feeders may apply to your needs as well.