As a print buyer, you are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that your company’s printed materials are of the highest quality. However, even the most experienced print buyers can make mistakes that can lead to costly delays, errors, and other issues. In this article, we’ll take a look at five common mistakes that print buyers make and provide practical tips on how to avoid them. From failing to provide accurate specifications to not proofreading final files, these mistakes can have a significant impact on your company’s bottom line and reputation. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to streamline your print buying process and ensure that your company’s printed materials are of the highest quality, every time. So, let’s dive in and explore the top five mistakes that print buyers make and how you can avoid them.
Mistake 1: Not Having a Clear Understanding of the Project Goals
One of the most common mistakes that print buyers make is not having a clear understanding of the project goals. It’s important to clearly define the scope of the project, including the purpose of the printed materials, the target audience, and any specific requirements. Without a clear understanding of the project goals, it can be difficult to communicate effectively with the printing company and ensure that the final product meets your expectations.
To avoid this mistake, take the time to define the project goals in detail before you begin the print buying process. Meet with your team and stakeholders to discuss the purpose of the printed materials, the target audience, and any specific requirements. This will help you communicate effectively with the printing company and ensure that the final product meets your expectations.
It’s also important to communicate any changes in the project goals to the printing company as soon as possible. This will help avoid delays and ensure that the final product meets your needs.
Mistake 2: Not Doing Enough Research on the Printing Company
Another common mistake that print buyers make is not doing enough research on the printing company. It’s important to choose a printing company that has the experience, capabilities, and reputation to meet your needs. Without doing enough research on the printing company, you may end up with a subpar product or experience delays in the printing process.
To avoid this mistake, take the time to research printing companies before you begin the print buying process. Look for companies that have experience in your industry and can provide references or samples of their work. You can also read reviews and ask for recommendations from colleagues or industry associations.
It’s also important to communicate your needs and expectations clearly to the printing company. This will help ensure that they understand your project goals and can provide the best possible service.
Mistake 3: Not Providing Correct File Formats and Resolution
One of the most important aspects of the print buying process is providing correct file formats and resolution. Without the correct file formats and resolution, the printing company may not be able to produce a high-quality product. This can lead to delays, errors, and additional costs.
To avoid this mistake, make sure to provide the printing company with the correct file formats and resolution. This may include PDF files, high-resolution images, and vector graphics. It’s also important to communicate any specific requirements, such as bleed and crop marks.
If you’re unsure about the correct file formats and resolution, don’t hesitate to ask the printing company for guidance. They can provide you with the necessary information and ensure that your files are ready for printing.
Mistake 4: Not Proofreading the Artwork Thoroughly
Another common mistake that print buyers make is not proofreading the artwork thoroughly. Even minor errors can have a significant impact on the final product, and can lead to costly reprints and delays.
To avoid this mistake, make sure to proofread the artwork thoroughly before sending it to the printing company. This includes checking for spelling and grammar errors, ensuring that all images and graphics are placed correctly, and verifying that all text is legible and aligned properly.
It’s also important to have multiple people review the artwork before sending it to the printing company. This can help catch any errors or issues that may have been missed during the initial proofreading process.
Mistake 5: Not Establishing Clear Communication with the Printing Company
Finally, one of the biggest mistakes that print buyers make is not establishing clear communication with the printing company. Without clear communication, it can be difficult to ensure that the final product meets your expectations and that the printing process runs smoothly.
To avoid this mistake, establish clear communication with the printing company from the beginning of the print buying process. This includes discussing project goals, providing the correct file formats and resolution, and communicating any changes or issues that arise.
It’s also important to establish a point of contact at the printing company, and to communicate regularly throughout the printing process. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that any issues are addressed in a timely manner.
How to Avoid These Mistakes
To avoid these common mistakes, there are several steps that you can take. These include:
– Clearly defining the project goals
– Doing your research on printing companies
– Providing correct file formats and resolution
– Thoroughly proofreading artwork
– Establishing clear communication with the printing company
By following these steps, you can streamline the print buying process and ensure that your company’s printed materials are of the highest quality, every time.
Additional Tips for Successful Print Buying
In addition to avoiding common mistakes, there are several additional tips that can help you succeed in the print buying process. These include:
– Building a relationship with the printing company
– Planning ahead to avoid rush charges
– Requesting samples or proofs before final production
– Being open to suggestions and feedback from the printing company
By building a strong relationship with the printing company, planning ahead, and being open to feedback, you can ensure a successful print buying experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, print buying can be a complex process, but by avoiding common mistakes and following best practices, you can ensure that your company’s printed materials are of the highest quality. By clearly defining project goals, doing your research on printing companies, providing correct file formats and resolution, thoroughly proofreading artwork, and establishing clear communication with the printing company, you can streamline the print buying process and ensure a successful outcome.
Who is eLynxx Solutions
eLynxx Solutions is a print procurement cloud based software company. Our print Commerce-as-a-Solution (CaaS), streamlines the print procurement process, improves efficiencies and reduces costs. We offer two cloud applications: PrintGizmo & PrintLynxx. Both applications help businesses reduce costs on jobs such as direct mail, marketing materials, promotional, signage and anything else that requires ink.
Mike isn’t just the Director of Marketing at eLynxx Solutions – he’s a customer-whisperer, a growth alchemist, and a trend-spotting oracle all rolled into one. His passion lies in igniting interest in eLynxx’s innovative solutions, fueling the company’s customer base, and using client feedback to steer the industry towards a brighter future.