Numerous hours are dedicated to each and every one of your clients to create the most brilliant pieces, from banners and posters to table displays with large-format graphics. And you count on your print vendor to deliver those print jobs on time.
Except they don’t always deliver on time.
Even when it’s beyond your control, missing a project deadline doesn’t look good on you. Here are three ways you can be more proactive in getting your prints completed sooner.
The first two are pretty self-explanatory, but the third may surprise you.
Double-Check that You’ve Included Your Must-Haves
Vendors can’t always get it right the first time if they don’t have all the necessary information upfront. Prevent any miscommunication by including all the important details in your print order. This may include:
Specialty Materials
Clearly state if you need it on paper stock, fabric, or any other specific material.
Brand Specifications
Any client-specific blurbs, logos, and other branding elements on printed displays.
Installation Windows
Indicate the specific timeframe for the project’s installation.
Absolute Deadlines
Communicate the exact date by which the whole project must be completed.
Make Sure the Final Version is THE Final Version
It happens to the best of us.
You catch a typo or a slight discoloration on the final draft after you’ve already sent it to the vendor. So you request one teeny-tiny edit.
Throwing in an update last-minute means the vendor may have to switch gears or even start all over, causing a delay.
Before you send the final version over for printing, get approval from everyone who contributed to the project. Confirm that all the Pantones match. Proofread it more than once. Taking a few extra minutes to look it over can save you days of extra waiting.
Develop a Relationship with a Local Vendor
When client projects are piling up, it’s tempting to use an online printing service. Just click a few buttons, upload your files, and that’s it! Perfect for when you’re working late and in a time crunch.
Sounds great in theory, but there are tradeoffs.
You’re essentially choosing a dollar menu cheeseburger over a Pub Burger from Iron Hill.
Global-scale web portals have little to no quality control.
Customer service is either very poor or non-existent.
And they operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Considering it’s your job to deliver high-quality products on a tight schedule, you’re taking a huge gamble every time you work with one of these faceless portals.
If they mess up or fall behind, this puts your reputation on the line.
When you’re working with a local vendor, you’re working with a partner who has your back.
They pre-order supplies.
They book the presses for you.
And they have a wealth of knowledge to really bring your visions to life in a way you might not have even thought of before.
Checking a few boxes on some website just doesn’t compare to working with an actual human who cares about your clients’ projects as much as you do.
Switch to Your Local Print Shop, PCG, to See the Difference
Contact PCG to elevate your next printing project with bold, engaging colors.