RE: Will a managed print service lower costs?
Yes. A review of your document output environment will indeed bring savings. To your statement Scott that 'I will obviously independently verify the results' how will you know if the data the vendor provides will be verifiable and prove savings. Vendors use industry metrics difficult to question if you are not from the industry.
I have been in working in the industry as a consultant for 15 years and have seen my share of questionable contracts and claims of savings.
Just be careful that you don't buy your way out of your expensive situation with shiny new sophisticated MFDs.
Good luck!
BKimmell