How To Choose Your Print Options

With so many choices available, you may be wondering how to choose your print options. You may have a laser printer in your office and wonder if doing your own printing in-house would be just as good as hiring out the work to a printer. This option can be especially tempting if you are creative and have the software to design your own materials.

So how do you choose your path? There are some simple questions you can ask yourself. The answers will guide you in a direction that works for you.

1) What will this product say about me and my company?

If you are considering a business card, will the card tell others that your company is professional and dependable? A cheap looking card suggests that you may cut corners. Unless a card looks like you have been around for a while, and will be around for a while, people may be nervous about doing business with you.

If you are considering a flyer, brochure or postcard, consider the same issues. Remember that anything that you put your company name on should demonstrate that your company equals quality and dependability.

2) Which print options meet my needs?

As you look for a printer, consider what your needs are. If you are a creative person, with a design background, you may only need a printer that can upload your ready-to-go files, print them to your specifications, and deliver the job in a timely manner. If you are design challenged, you may need a printer that offers design services, composes the layout of your project, and creates their own files. Your part is to supply any artwork or photographs and copy.

Maybe you want the flexibility to change copy on your brochure. Consider combining the best of commercial printer and in-house laser. Have the commercial printer print all the photographs and permanent information. Use your laser printer to add the copy. This combination concept has been around for years. It is especially popular for personalizing children’s books. The cover and pages are preprinted. The sales person tells the computer what names to use, and sends the print job to the laser printer. The book is stapled together, the cover glued on, and a personalized children’s book is delivered within minutes.

You may also consider whether you are comfortable working with an online printer. Working with a local printer may be more comfortable for you. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone, though, if you find you want more than the local printer can offer. As with anything else of value, it may take a little research time to find the right printer for you, but with so many available online now, you can find one that fits your needs.

3) If I am a start-up company, what do I need to focus on?

No two companies develop their business in exactly the same way, but there is one thing that everyone agrees on. Print a quality business card. Online printers really make this affordable. You just don’t have any excuse.

Next study your market. Use additional promotional materials that are proven to work in your niche. If you are forging a new trail, study other businesses that are similar in concept. Having a poster printed may fly for one business and bomb for another. Explore all the options available at the printer, and target your spending where your chances are the best.

Research doesn’t guarantee success, but it tips the odds in your favor. There are many other topics on this site that will expand your understanding of printing. Keep on reading, and your confidence will grow. You can know how to choose your print options.

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