Historically, ink jet products have had a tough time breaking into the office-printing environment. The business community as a whole has looked askance at ink jet products, which have a reputation for messy consumables, easily smudged output, and weak paper handling. Moreover, information technology (IT) departments perceive ink jet products as requiring more support, and the threat of higher operating costs alienates purchasing departments. Recently, however, manufacturers have introduced a group of new ink jet products targeted specifically at the office user that may make ink jet printer use more common in business settings. This report explores the barriers to adoption of ink jet products in the office. It compares ink jet and color laser price, performance, cost-per-page, reliability and ease-of use. The report examines the market opportunities based on the current strengths and weaknesses of each type of printer. Shipment and revenue trends for both ink jet and color laser printers and cartridges are provided through 2009. Sign up to view the related free Webcast, Ink Jet versus Laser: The Battle for the Office, to be held Tuesday, April 18, at 2 p.m. eastern daylight time. | 
