3 Questions to Ask When Choosing the Right Printing Company
You’ve heard horror stories. You can’t get in reach anyone to get an estimate. Your deadline has been pushed back because the printing company isn’t flexible. The color on your brochure doesn’t match the proof, and there are artifacts – or blemishes.
No matter the size of your project, choosing a printing company is not a matter to take lightly. As with other business decisions, doing research to find the right fit can give you peace of mind, knowing that your project is in good hands. Also, working with a high-quality printing company helps ensure that your company is presented professionally in all the materials you distribute and display.
When selecting the right printing company for your business, ask about the following:
Do they have a pre-press department?
The pre-press department is the gateway of quality control before your project artwork goes to the main press. It’s the stage when experts examine the files to make sure all components are in place and the files can be replicated.
The process begins as soon as digital files are submitted to the printer. After the files are prepared, a proof is generated for approval. This is your chance to make sure that everything appears as intended. If it doesn’t, communicate with the pre-press department to make file adjustments. Keep in mind that the clearer you are with your instructions, the better the result will be.
The pre-press department of printing plays a critical first step in ensuring that the final product is of the highest quality possible. Skipping this step increases the risk of a finished print product that doesn’t meet your expectations.
Do they offer high-quality printing solutions to match your needs?
Print quality reflects your business. It can help express your brand and mirror your values. Whether you are a large company or a solopreneur, high-quality printed materials can help set you apart from the competition. When the stakes are high, you don’t want to compromise by handing out a sub-par product that may make potential customers think twice about reaching out.
When selecting the right printing partner, ask to see samples of their work and look at their portfolio. The following are warning signs of low-quality print work:
- Incorrect or missing colors
- Unwanted marks on documents
- Blurry or smeared printout
- Misalignments or banding
Ask yourself if the finished product samples are up to your standards. If the answer is “no,” it may be time to look for another printer.
How is their customer service?
Unfortunately, not all printers offer the same level of customer service. And good customer service goes together with high-quality printing. When interviewing print companies, make sure that they listen and communicate with understanding and clarity. Finding a company that is responsive to your requests and hits agreed-upon deadlines will help ensure you have a good experience.
Partner with Gibson Printing for Your Next Project
Since 1994, Gibson Printing experts have helped businesses of all sizes deliver marketing materials that set their companies apart. Contact us today to tell us about your project and to learn more about our high-quality solutions for your business.
