Finding The Right Print Management Service Provider

By Dale Trent


It costs a lot to hire and train people and purchase cutting edge equipment, so why not get a print management service provider instead? You can find a dime a dozen online but be forewarned that not all of them can deliver the results your boss expects. Sure, a lot of these print suppliers offer impressively cost-efficient packages, but recklessly low pricing isn't at all assuring and might be even a cause for alarm especially since you'll be conducting your transactions online.

How is the supplier in terms of service? Are they responsive and steadfast all throughout? Sometimes, having a well designed and highly usable website and a web page filled with names of reputable clientele are not enough. You need to be particular with the companies or suppliers you work with. You want only the best print materials delivered to your doorstep.

Professionalism. The supplier, or its representative,must look presentable and act professionally when dealing with clients. He must communicate in a friendly yet professional manner, not forgetting the terms of a client-supplier relationship. He must be able to listen to your needs, address your concerns in a non-threatening manner, and should be open to feedback and suggestions.

Your supplier should be knowledgeable about the printing business, technical and operations-wise. Does he even know what CMYK and RGB colour profiles mean? Is he familiar with the process of proofing or how long it takes for finished projects to be delivered? How much of an expert is he in terms of print management service?

Now look at the suppliers samples. Ask them for clients who currently use their products and see them for yourself. How is the quality? Do they have quality check measures in place? Do you think the supplier can produce posters, flyers, catalogues, and banners that you can shamelessly use on your company's next nationwide campaign?

You want a supplier you can depend on. There should be someone who is devoted to updating you on the status of your requests and he is consistent in providing you with such updates. You don't want a sales rep that doesn't make it to your meeting because he has a hangover from the night before. You need someone reliable who will tell you that your printed materials are ready.

Genuine Concern. If it feels as if he's just trying to wheedle money out of you to meet a sales quota, then you're probably talking to the wrong supplier. A good supplier actually cares about your needs and would be willing to exert extra effort to address them.

Sensitivity To Deadlines. Suppliers should understand that you are hiring them because you don't have the time to attend to your company's printing needs. When a supplier's representative contacts you to provide updates on your order, it must be on the promised date. The proofing, production, and delivery of the final output must be on the agreed deadline. You get what you want when you want it.

And after you take all of these into consideration, there is one other thing you must look at: the price. Outsourcing your print need shouldn't be so expensive especially with the number of print companies that are in the market nowadays. You can find good, reliable service that produces high quality products at affordable prices.

The right print management service provider is one that your company would want to stay with for a very long time. Start canvassing before deciding!




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment