There can be numerous benefits that come from switching to a new printing partner. You may be switching to save on printing costs or cut down on shipping time, to name a few. However, switching to a new printing partner can also feel like venturing into uncharted waters. While it can be exciting to explore new possibilities, it can also come with its fair share of challenges. To ensure a smooth transition and successful partnership, it’s important to navigate this change with careful consideration and proactive steps.
Utilize Customer Support Staff
One of the most valuable resources available during the transition is the customer support team at your new printer. These professionals are trained to assist you with any questions, concerns, or issues that may arise. Your Sales Representative and Customer Service Representative are there to help ease you through the transition, so be sure to take full advantage of their expertise. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance on everything from file preparation to shipping logistics.
Your customer support staff can often even give you advice on the best printing options to fit your budget while still creating a quality final product, including paper and binding options, as well as coatings and other applications.
Carefully Review Proofs
Proofreading is a critical step in any printing project, but it becomes even more essential when working with a new printer. A different printer may be working with different equipment, resulting in minor visual differences from what your customers are used to receiving. Take the time to carefully review all proofs and ensure that they accurately reflect your desired outcome. Pay close attention to details such as color accuracy and and overall layout. Establishing a robust quality control process will help minimize errors and ensure that your final product meets your high standards.
Understand Your New Printer’s Capabilities
Each printer has its own unique capabilities and limitations. Before embarking on a new project, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with your printer’s strengths and weaknesses. This will help you make informed decisions about the types of projects to pursue and the specific requirements that need to be met. Again, don’t be afraid to lean on your new customer support representatives to fully understand their printing capabilities. Your new printer may offer new capabilities to enhance your project, such as coatings, binding types or even paper options.
Establish a Relationship With Your New Printer
Your point of contact at the printer will play a crucial role in the success of your partnership. Take the time to get to know them and build a rapport. Open and honest communication is key to a successful working relationship. Discuss your project goals, timelines and any specific concerns you may have. As your relationship with your new printing partner grows, they’ll likely learn to anticipate your needs and may even come to you with new ways to enhance your product or save on printing costs. By establishing a strong connection with your point of contact, you’ll create a foundation for collaboration and problem-solving.
Ensure a Painless Transition with Walsworth
At Walsworth, we understand that switching to a new printing partner can be a daunting task. That’s why we’re committed to making the transition as seamless as possible. For example, we offer a series of quick start guides to help you get your files ready for a successful print. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and support throughout the entire process. From initial consultation to final delivery, we’ll work closely with you to ensure that your printing needs are met with the highest level of quality and efficiency. By following these tips and leveraging the expertise of your new printing partner, you can successfully navigate the challenges of a new partnership and achieve outstanding results. With careful planning, open communication, and a commitment to quality, you’ll be well on your way to building a long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationship. Contact Walsworth today to learn more about how we make the switching process painless.
* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.
