In today’s digital world, print procurement might seem like a simple task. But for businesses that rely on physical marketing materials or internal documents, even small mistakes can lead to wasted resources and missed deadlines. Here are the top 5 mistakes print procurement managers make, and how to avoid them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Focusing Only on Price<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, but the lowest upfront cost doesn’t always translate to the best value. Consider factors like quality, turnaround time, hidden fees, and customer service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Solution:<\/strong> Compare quotes based on total project cost, including delivery and potential reprints due to quality issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2. Lack of Vendor Diversification<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Relying on a single vendor can leave you vulnerable to price hikes or service disruptions. Partnering with multiple printers allows for competitive pricing and contingency plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Solution:<\/strong> Develop relationships with several reputable printing companies, each with specific strengths (e.g., high-volume jobs, rush orders, specialty printing).<\/p>\n\n\n\n 3. Unclear Requirements<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Ambiguous instructions lead to misprints and delays. Clearly define project details like paper stock, color accuracy, finishing touches, and quantity needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Solution:<\/strong> Invest time in creating detailed print specifications. Use online templates or industry standards to ensure clarity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4. Ignoring Print Management Software<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Manual print procurement is inefficient and prone to errors. Print management software streamlines ordering, tracks costs, and optimizes workflows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Solution:<\/strong> Research and implement print management software that integrates with your existing systems such as PrintGizmo by eLynxx Solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 5. Underestimating Lead Time<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Printing takes time, especially for complex projects. Don’t wait until the last minute to place orders. Factor in design revisions, approval processes, and delivery timeframes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Solution:<\/strong> Plan print projects well in advance. Establish clear deadlines with internal stakeholders and communicate them effectively to the printer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n By avoiding these common pitfalls, print procurement managers can ensure they’re getting the best possible value for their printing needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bonus Tip:<\/strong> Consider the environmental impact of your printing choices. Look for printers who offer sustainable practices like recycled paper and eco-friendly inks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to streamline your print procurement process and gain access to a network of vetted, sustainable printers? PrintGizmo is an all-in-one print management platform that simplifies ordering, reduces costs, and gives you complete control over your printing needs. Get a free demo today and see how PrintGizmo can help your business thrive. eLynxx Solutions – elynxx.com or 717-709-0990.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" In today’s digital world, print procurement might seem like a simple task. But for businesses that rely on physical marketing […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":22146,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[64,324,72,358],"tags":[66,109],"class_list":["post-22145","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-print-buyer","category-print-management","category-print-procurement","category-print-resellers","tag-print-buyers","tag-procurement"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t