A digital printing solutions service can help you plan jobs and save money

A digital printing solutions service needn't cost your business a fortune. If you talk to a printer during the concept stages of your print job you'll receive invaluable advice that's guaranteed to save time and money down the track.

We asked Joe Kowalewski and Hagop Tchamkertenian, from the Printing Industries Association of Australia, to give us some tips on making commercial printing as cost efficient and pain free as possible. 

How long will my print job take with a digital printing solutions service?

Turnaround times for print jobs can vary greatly, depending on the complexity of the printing solutions required, the quantity required and how busy printing companies are, says Hagop. 

"Generally speaking, you're looking at a couple of hours for a single-sheet flyer printed digitally, and perhaps a few days for a multi-page booklet or annual report done using the offset printing process. Embellishments like foil or embossing for a multi-page booklet may stretch that out to around 7-8 days."

Speed up your printing solutions

To ensure your print job is turned around as quickly as possible, Hagop suggests you:

• Check that the paper grade you require is in stock
• Ensure that your files are print ready and that images are in the correct format
• Ask your printer for ink and paper recommendations – the stock you want may be impractical for your use, or may require further processes you're not aware of

Saving money on printing solutions

According to Joe, the best way to save money on your printing solutions is to seek advice.

"Printing companies know the game inside out, so to maximise the effectiveness of your dealings with them and minimise costs, show them your concepts first."

Some handy hints to minimise costs include:

• Bulk printing: The rule of thumb is the larger the print run the cheaper the cost per unit. This is because most of the costs are incurred during the set-up phase.

• Get your timing right: Talk to printing companies about printing outside normal business hours, as they sometimes have excess capacity and may be able to slot your job in between others.

• Be flexible: Ask about alternative paper stock and be open to advice from printing solutions companies. They may be able to save you a significant amount by suggesting cheaper alternatives.

Ask the experts 

Printing is a complex and highly specialised craft, so it pays to take the time to sit down with your printer and make them part of the design process.

"These guys print thousands of sheets every day," says Joe. "They know what's possible, can show you examples and come up with innovative printing solutions that save you money and set your product apart."

So if you're about to embark on a print campaign, get in touch with a digital printing solutions service today for some timely advice.