Survey: Technology can help ease holiday stress

LEXINGTON, Ky., Dec. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The holidays bring their share of stress, but technology is more likely to help you get more done than cause more pressure.

That's according to a new online survey of 1,000 computer users commissioned by Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) , a leading provider of printing and imaging products, services and solutions.

Three out of four respondents said they routinely or sometimes have too much to do during the holiday season.

Respondents admitted to taking "short cuts" as a result of having too much to do. Top responses for these short cuts were:

    -- Not decorating for the holidays, 36 percent
    -- Skipped a holiday party, 29 percent
    -- Purchased holiday cards but never actually mailed them out, 28 percent

Respondents said they were least likely to short-change their employers. Only 7 percent of respondents said they called in sick to catch up on holiday preparations.

During times of high stress, respondents said technology most often worked about as expected (63 percent) or even pulled them through jams (28 percent). More than half said technology made them feel capable and 44 percent went so far as to say they are likely to feel anxious or "a feeling of falling behind" when they are "unplugged" from their technology and out of touch.

When ranking the top three technology devices they used in order to be productive, respondents most frequently cited their computer, their printer and their cell phone.

Wireless printers are taking printing productivity to new levels(1). Lexmark offers a full line of the most affordable wireless printers in the market, with pricing starting at just $79.99(2). Lexmark's wireless AIO printers enable users not only to print, but also to copy and scan as well as to send and receive hardcopy faxes on four-in-one models. The printers also provide advanced photo editing and printing capabilities.

In addition, Lexmark backs the quality of its wireless printers with an exclusive Protection Guarantee(3) with next business day replacement for up to one year after purchase.

"Today's wireless all-in-one printers make it easy to get more done, whether you are working on a work-related project or printing holiday greeting cards and family photos," said Paul A. Rooke, Lexmark executive vice president and president of its Consumer Printer Division.

For more information about wireless printing, visit http://mediakits.lexmark.com/.

Survey Methodology

The online survey was conducted Oct. 12-13, 2007 for Lexmark by MarketTools, a third-party research firm, which maintains online panel communities. Men represented 29 percent of respondents while women represented 71 percent. Respondents represented all regions of the U.S. Respondents were aged 18 through 65. The margin of error is +/- 3 percent.

About Lexmark

Lexmark International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) provides businesses and consumers in more than 150 countries with a broad range of printing and imaging products, solutions and services that help them to be more productive. In 2006, Lexmark reported $5.1 billion in revenue. Learn how Lexmark can help you get more done at www.lexmark.com.

Lexmark and Lexmark with diamond design are trademarks of Lexmark International, Inc., registered in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    (1) 802.11 b/g/n wireless network required for all wireless functions.
        Subject to the range and capabilities of your wireless router and
        access to electricity.

    (2) All prices are estimated street prices in U.S. dollars -- actual
        prices may vary.

    (3) This limited warranty does not cover accidental damage, misuse, theft
        or loss.  See Statement of Limited Warranty available at purchase
        locations for details. Warranty availability can vary by product and
        country.