When it comes to online print solutions there is almost an endless list of companies offering a variety of solutions. So how do you set about finding the right solution for you.
There are multiple factors to consider when trawling through the online print solutions available, do you go for price? is the company based in the UK? will my order arrive on time? will the quality be ok? Whilst most of these points seem fairly obvious you have to consider that most people will be basing their choice on whether they like the colour of the website, or the logo looks great or just simply the prices look cheap. Whilst these factors may have some relevance none of them can really give you an idea of the level of service or the quality of the work that they produce.
Most of the more reputable companies offer free samples often dispatched as a complete ’sample pack’, I would recommend requesting samples from a minimum of three different companies, the more the better remember here! after all remember these are free.
Make a note of the day that you request the samples and monitor which companies samples arrive first, to me first impressions count and the speed in which your samples arrive is a reflection on how the company values customer service.
Look at the envelope when it arrives, is it in good condition, is there a label with your address printed on it or has the label been hand written? Is the envelope of a good quality or is it a cheap envelope not really fit for purpose? Then come the samples themselves are they presented as a pack or just thrown into an empty envelope? Is there a covering letter introducing the company and the services that they offer? All of these factors should help you start to build a picture of the type of company that you want to work with.
When your sample pack arrive, lay out the contents on a table and see what stands out, what catches your eye and then note down why! If you can then get a couple of friends or family to do the same and compare the findings, the results can be priceless and the great thing is that this doesn’t cost anything to do (maybe a cup of tea and some biscuits at worst).
As a start I suggest you request a sample pack from at least three companies as a start there are three listed below.
• Print-it-247
• Cheap Print House
• Better Print
When the pack arrives, take note of how long the pack took to arrive, the condition of the pack and usefulness of the information contained in the pack. Then look at the quality of the print itself, the material is it paper or board?, is it glossy? or does it have a matt finish?
All of these factors can help you choose the right company to work with and ensure that when your print arrives it looks and feels exactly how you expect it too!
The benefits of putting in a little effort into finding the right company for you can often be repaid time and time again as you build a successful working relationship. Continuity, consistency and service are most often the reason that your clients return time and time again, these are the same factors that you should consider when looking for the right print partner for you!
Print is not a science there are many different variables involved when producing a printed product, this applies to everything from a simple business card to a corporate brochure. It is really important to communicate with your supplier be sure to give them us much information about the product that you require and how you intend to use it. The more information that you can provide the more likely that you project will be a success.