**The Power of First Impressions: Why Your Digital Identity Matters**

In the fast-paced digital age, your online presence is your brand’s handshake to the world. It’s where potential clients, partners, and customers first encounter your business. In fact, for most people, your website, social media, or online listings will be their first impression of your brand. And as the saying goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.” That’s why Vpress is proud to unveil our new website, designed to reflect our core values, expertise, and commitment to innovation. This milestone has reminded us of how crucial a strong digital identity is for any business. Additionally, our branded Web-to-Print storefronts are a fantastic way to ensure your brand makes a great first impression, providing a seamless and professional experience for your clients.

Here, we delve into the importance of your digital identity and the key factors to consider when crafting a brand image that not only stands out but also drives trust and engagement.

**Why Digital Identity is Critical for Your Brand**

In an increasingly digital world, your online presence is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Here’s why:

1. **First Impressions Are Online:** Studies show that 81% of consumers research a business online before making a purchase decision. Your website, social media, and digital touchpoints act as the face of your brand.
2. **Trust and Credibility:** A professional, consistent, and visually appealing digital presence builds trust. A poorly designed website or outdated content can create doubt, while a polished digital identity reassures visitors of your legitimacy.
3. **Competitive Edge:** In saturated markets, your online identity is often the deciding factor between you and a competitor. A well-defined digital brand helps you stand out.
4. **24/7 Accessibility:** Unlike physical storefronts, your digital presence is always on. It’s a window into your brand that operates around the clock, catering to global audiences.
5. **Influencing Perception:** Your online content, imagery, and messaging shape how people perceive your brand. An intentional approach ensures you’re conveying the right message to your target audience.

**Key Factors to Improve Your Brand Image Online**

If you’re looking to enhance your digital presence, here are the core elements you should focus on:

**1\. A Cohesive and Modern Website**

Your website is often the cornerstone of your digital identity. Here’s what to prioritise:

* **User Experience (UX):** Ensure easy navigation, fast loading times, and mobile responsiveness.
* **Visual Design:** Use a clean, consistent design that reflects your brand’s personality.
* **Clear Messaging:** Communicate your value proposition and key offerings effectively.
* **SEO Optimisation:** Make sure your website is discoverable by optimising for search engines.

**2\. Consistent Branding Across Platforms**

Your logo, colour palette, typography, and tone of voice should remain consistent across all digital platforms—from your website to your social media pages. This consistency fosters recognition and trust.

**3\. Engaging Content**

Content is the bridge between your brand and your audience. High-quality, relevant content helps build authority and engagement. Focus on:

* Blog posts that address your audience’s pain points.
* Thought leadership articles showcasing your expertise.
* Visual content such as videos, infographics, and branded photography.

**4\. Social Media Presence**

Your social media channels are powerful tools for building relationships with your audience. Tips to optimise your presence:

* Post regularly and stay active in engaging with followers.
* Tailor your content to each platform.
* Leverage analytics to understand what resonates with your audience.

**5\. Online Reviews and Testimonials**

Positive reviews and testimonials act as social proof. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on platforms like Google, LinkedIn, or industry-specific directories.

**6\. Secure and Professional Communication**

An official email domain, secure website (with HTTPS), and professional customer service set a high standard for trust and reliability.

**7\. Monitor and Adapt**

The digital landscape evolves rapidly. Regularly review your website analytics, social media performance, and customer feedback to adapt your digital strategy.

**Conclusion**

Your digital identity is the gateway to your brand, often serving as the first interaction someone has with your business. By prioritising a cohesive and engaging online presence, you not only make a strong first impression but also build trust, drive loyalty, and set your brand apart in the competitive digital landscape.

<p><strong>The Power of First Impressions: Why Your Digital Identity Matters</strong></p>
<p>In the fast-paced digital age, your online presence is your brand’s handshake to the world. It’s where potential clients, partners, and customers first encounter your business. In fact, for most people, your website, social media, or online listings will be their first impression of your brand. And as the saying goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.” That’s why Vpress is proud to unveil our new website, designed to reflect our core values, expertise, and commitment to innovation. This milestone has reminded us of how crucial a strong digital identity is for any business. Additionally, our branded Web-to-Print storefronts are a fantastic way to ensure your brand makes a great first impression, providing a seamless and professional experience for your clients.</p>
<p>Here, we delve into the importance of your digital identity and the key factors to consider when crafting a brand image that not only stands out but also drives trust and engagement.</p>
<p><strong>Why Digital Identity is Critical for Your Brand</strong></p>
<p>In an increasingly digital world, your online presence is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Here’s why:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>First Impressions Are Online:</strong> Studies show that 81% of consumers research a business online before making a purchase decision. Your website, social media, and digital touchpoints act as the face of your brand.</li>
<li><strong>Trust and Credibility:</strong> A professional, consistent, and visually appealing digital presence builds trust. A poorly designed website or outdated content can create doubt, while a polished digital identity reassures visitors of your legitimacy.</li>
<li><strong>Competitive Edge:</strong> In saturated markets, your online identity is often the deciding factor between you and a competitor. A well-defined digital brand helps you stand out.</li>
<li><strong>24/7 Accessibility:</strong> Unlike physical storefronts, your digital presence is always on. It’s a window into your brand that operates around the clock, catering to global audiences.</li>
<li><strong>Influencing Perception:</strong> Your online content, imagery, and messaging shape how people perceive your brand. An intentional approach ensures you’re conveying the right message to your target audience.</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Key Factors to Improve Your Brand Image Online</strong></p>
<p>If you’re looking to enhance your digital presence, here are the core elements you should focus on:</p>
<p><strong>1. A Cohesive and Modern Website</strong></p>
<p>Your website is often the cornerstone of your digital identity. Here’s what to prioritise:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>User Experience (UX):</strong> Ensure easy navigation, fast loading times, and mobile responsiveness.</li>
<li><strong>Visual Design:</strong> Use a clean, consistent design that reflects your brand’s personality.</li>
<li><strong>Clear Messaging:</strong> Communicate your value proposition and key offerings effectively.</li>
<li><strong>SEO Optimisation:</strong> Make sure your website is discoverable by optimising for search engines.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>2. Consistent Branding Across Platforms</strong></p>
<p>Your logo, colour palette, typography, and tone of voice should remain consistent across all digital platforms—from your website to your social media pages. This consistency fosters recognition and trust.</p>
<p><strong>3. Engaging Content</strong></p>
<p>Content is the bridge between your brand and your audience. High-quality, relevant content helps build authority and engagement. Focus on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Blog posts that address your audience’s pain points.</li>
<li>Thought leadership articles showcasing your expertise.</li>
<li>Visual content such as videos, infographics, and branded photography.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>4. Social Media Presence</strong></p>
<p>Your social media channels are powerful tools for building relationships with your audience. Tips to optimise your presence:</p>
<ul>
<li>Post regularly and stay active in engaging with followers.</li>
<li>Tailor your content to each platform.</li>
<li>Leverage analytics to understand what resonates with your audience.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>5. Online Reviews and Testimonials</strong></p>
<p>Positive reviews and testimonials act as social proof. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on platforms like Google, LinkedIn, or industry-specific directories.</p>
<p><strong>6. Secure and Professional Communication</strong></p>
<p>An official email domain, secure website (with HTTPS), and professional customer service set a high standard for trust and reliability.</p>
<p><strong>7. Monitor and Adapt</strong></p>
<p>The digital landscape evolves rapidly. Regularly review your website analytics, social media performance, and customer feedback to adapt your digital strategy.</p>
<p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>
<p>Your digital identity is the gateway to your brand, often serving as the first interaction someone has with your business. By prioritising a cohesive and engaging online presence, you not only make a strong first impression but also build trust, drive loyalty, and set your brand apart in the competitive digital landscape.</p>


The Power of First Impressions: Why Your Digital Identity Matters

### **High ROI with Print Marketing: Why Print Still Matters**

In today’s digital world, businesses often focus heavily on online marketing. With the dominance of social media, email campaigns, and search engine advertising, traditional print marketing can easily be overlooked. However, print marketing is far from obsolete—it’s seeing a resurgence and can deliver high returns on investment (ROI), especially when compared to digital channels. Here’s how print marketing can enhance your business strategy and deliver significant results.

**Print Marketing vs. Digital Marketing**

One of the main advantages of print marketing is its effectiveness in customer engagement. Studies show that print and direct mail campaigns generate a 4.4% response rate, significantly higher than digital marketing’s average of 0.12%. While digital marketing offers the allure of instant reach at lower costs, these numbers tell a different story. Digital channels like email and social media ads are often ignored, overlooked, or even blocked by overwhelmed users. In contrast, print materials—especially direct mail—create a tangible presence that is more personal and harder to dismiss.

**Brand Building & Recall**

Beyond immediate conversions, print marketing is highly effective in building brand recognition and trust. Print materials leave a longer-lasting impression compared to their digital counterparts. According to RAMetrics data from 2022-2023, print ads deliver a recall rate of 78%, 48 percentage points higher than digital ads. This superior recall is due to print’s ability to engage multiple senses, such as touch and sight, and even smell when high-quality materials are used. These multi-sensory experiences help customers remember your brand more vividly, making print a powerful tool for long-term brand-building efforts.

**Measuring ROI with New Technology**

Historically, one of print marketing’s challenges was tracking its effectiveness. Marketers could measure how many materials were sent out but had little insight into how many people engaged with them. Today, new technology has made it easier to track and measure print campaigns. QR codes, personalised URLs (PURLs), and custom discount codes allow businesses to monitor customer interaction with print materials in real-time. These innovations, when paired with analytics software, provide detailed insights into the success of print campaigns. With [Web-to-Print](/resources/web-to-print-guide) templates and automation technology it is easier than ever to add these tracking metrics to printed items.

Direct Mail, in particular, delivers impressive results, with an ROI averaging 112%, outperforming digital counterparts such as Email (93%), Paid Search (88%), and Social Media (81%). With these tracking tools, marketers can now measure the impact of print campaigns as precisely as they do digital ones, making print a more quantifiable and accountable marketing method.

**Reaching Younger Audiences**

It’s often assumed that [younger generations](https://powerdirect.net/reasons-young-consumers-respond-print-advertising/#:~:text=Yes%2C%20you%20read%20that%20right,matter%20who%20is%20receiving%20it.) are more inclined toward digital content over traditional formats. However, research suggests otherwise. A study found that over 92% of 18 to 23-year-olds find printed content easier to read than digital alternatives. Despite being digital natives, younger generations respond positively to print, perceiving it as more authentic, less intrusive, and easier to concentrate on compared to the overwhelming nature of online ads. This makes print marketing effective in reaching and engaging audiences across age groups.

**Ad-blocking Technology**

A significant challenge for digital marketers is the widespread use of [ad-blocking technology](https://www.wordstream.com/blog/ws/2015/10/02/ad-blockers). At least 47% of consumers use ad-blockers, making it even more difficult for brands to get their messages seen. Print marketing sidesteps this issue entirely. Print ads are immune to being blocked, ensuring your message reaches your audience without interference. This is a major advantage, especially in an environment where consumers are becoming more selective about the digital content they engage with.

**The Bottom Line**

While digital marketing has transformed how businesses reach their audiences, print marketing still plays a critical role in driving engagement, building trust, and offering higher response rates. Whether you want to stand out in a crowded market or leave a lasting impression, print marketing provides a tangible, reliable way to connect with your audience.

With modern tracking tools, the ROI of print marketing can now be measured as accurately as any digital campaign. For businesses seeking high-impact marketing, print offers a level of engagement that digital channels cannot easily match. From superior response rates to better brand recall, print continues to deliver value in ways often underestimated in today’s digital-first world.

<h3><strong>High ROI with Print Marketing: Why Print Still Matters</strong></h3>
<p>In today’s digital world, businesses often focus heavily on online marketing. With the dominance of social media, email campaigns, and search engine advertising, traditional print marketing can easily be overlooked. However, print marketing is far from obsolete—it’s seeing a resurgence and can deliver high returns on investment (ROI), especially when compared to digital channels. Here’s how print marketing can enhance your business strategy and deliver significant results.</p>
<p><strong>Print Marketing vs. Digital Marketing</strong></p>
<p>One of the main advantages of print marketing is its effectiveness in customer engagement. Studies show that print and direct mail campaigns generate a 4.4% response rate, significantly higher than digital marketing’s average of 0.12%. While digital marketing offers the allure of instant reach at lower costs, these numbers tell a different story. Digital channels like email and social media ads are often ignored, overlooked, or even blocked by overwhelmed users. In contrast, print materials—especially direct mail—create a tangible presence that is more personal and harder to dismiss.</p>
<p><strong>Brand Building &amp; Recall</strong></p>
<p>Beyond immediate conversions, print marketing is highly effective in building brand recognition and trust. Print materials leave a longer-lasting impression compared to their digital counterparts. According to RAMetrics data from 2022-2023, print ads deliver a recall rate of 78%, 48 percentage points higher than digital ads. This superior recall is due to print’s ability to engage multiple senses, such as touch and sight, and even smell when high-quality materials are used. These multi-sensory experiences help customers remember your brand more vividly, making print a powerful tool for long-term brand-building efforts.</p>
<p><strong>Measuring ROI with New Technology</strong></p>
<p>Historically, one of print marketing’s challenges was tracking its effectiveness. Marketers could measure how many materials were sent out but had little insight into how many people engaged with them. Today, new technology has made it easier to track and measure print campaigns. QR codes, personalised URLs (PURLs), and custom discount codes allow businesses to monitor customer interaction with print materials in real-time. These innovations, when paired with analytics software, provide detailed insights into the success of print campaigns. With <a href="/resources/web-to-print-guide">Web-to-Print</a> templates and automation technology it is easier than ever to add these tracking metrics to printed items.</p>
<p>Direct Mail, in particular, delivers impressive results, with an ROI averaging 112%, outperforming digital counterparts such as Email (93%), Paid Search (88%), and Social Media (81%). With these tracking tools, marketers can now measure the impact of print campaigns as precisely as they do digital ones, making print a more quantifiable and accountable marketing method.</p>
<p><strong>Reaching Younger Audiences</strong></p>
<p>It’s often assumed that <a href="https://powerdirect.net/reasons-young-consumers-respond-print-advertising/#:~:text=Yes%2C%20you%20read%20that%20right,matter%20who%20is%20receiving%20it.">younger generations</a> are more inclined toward digital content over traditional formats. However, research suggests otherwise. A study found that over 92% of 18 to 23-year-olds find printed content easier to read than digital alternatives. Despite being digital natives, younger generations respond positively to print, perceiving it as more authentic, less intrusive, and easier to concentrate on compared to the overwhelming nature of online ads. This makes print marketing effective in reaching and engaging audiences across age groups.</p>
<p><strong>Ad-blocking Technology</strong></p>
<p>A significant challenge for digital marketers is the widespread use of <a href="https://www.wordstream.com/blog/ws/2015/10/02/ad-blockers">ad-blocking technology</a>. At least 47% of consumers use ad-blockers, making it even more difficult for brands to get their messages seen. Print marketing sidesteps this issue entirely. Print ads are immune to being blocked, ensuring your message reaches your audience without interference. This is a major advantage, especially in an environment where consumers are becoming more selective about the digital content they engage with.</p>
<p><strong>The Bottom Line</strong></p>
<p>While digital marketing has transformed how businesses reach their audiences, print marketing still plays a critical role in driving engagement, building trust, and offering higher response rates. Whether you want to stand out in a crowded market or leave a lasting impression, print marketing provides a tangible, reliable way to connect with your audience.</p>
<p>With modern tracking tools, the ROI of print marketing can now be measured as accurately as any digital campaign. For businesses seeking high-impact marketing, print offers a level of engagement that digital channels cannot easily match. From superior response rates to better brand recall, print continues to deliver value in ways often underestimated in today’s digital-first world.</p>


High ROI with Print Marketing: Why Print Still Matters

## **\#8: Web-to-Print Essentials: The Essence of Responsive Web Design in Web-to-Print**

Welcome to the final instalment of our comprehensive exploration into the heart of [Web-to-Print](/resources/web-to-print-guide) essentials. Today, we embark on a journey through the realm of Responsive Web Design, a cornerstone of modern digital systems. As we delve into the intricacies of Responsive Web Design, we uncover the fundamental elements that distinguish exceptional Web-to-Print software.

**Is it Responsive?**

In an era where mobile devices reign supreme, responsiveness is non-negotiable. Your Web-to-Print solution should seamlessly adapt to any screen size, whether it’s a desktop monitor, tablet, or smartphone. With over 54% of internet traffic originating from mobile devices, ensuring cross-device compatibility is imperative for reaching your audience effectively. That is why companies such as [Vpress](/about) make continuous improvements to their systems responsiveness making sure customers have an amazing user experience no matter the device.

**Are Updates Made to Keep Up with Tech?**

Technology evolves at a rapid pace, and your Web-to-Print solution must keep pace with the latest advancements. Regular updates signify a commitment to innovation and improvement. By staying abreast of emerging technologies, your chosen platform can provide enhanced features, improved performance, and strengthened security, ensuring that your print operations remain cutting-edge and future-proof.

**Does it Have a Good User Interface?**

User experience is the linchpin of successful digital platforms. A good Web-to-Print solution boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface that simplifies complex tasks and enhances productivity. From seamless navigation to intuitive design elements, prioritise a platform that prioritises the user experience, empowering your team to accomplish more with ease. A user-friendly system enhances customer retention by streamlining the editing and ordering processes. Conversely, complex user interfaces can lead to customer frustration, prompting them to return to previous procurement methods.

**What are the Limitations?**

While Web-to-Print solutions offer immense flexibility and convenience, it’s crucial to understand their limitations. Whether it’s compatibility issues with certain browsers, constraints on customisation, or limitations in feature sets, being aware of the platform’s constraints enables you to make informed decisions and work around potential challenges effectively.

In conclusion, Responsive Web Design serves as the beacon guiding Web-to-Print solutions into the future. By embracing the principles of adaptability, innovation, and user-centric design, your organization can unlock new levels of efficiency, agility, and success in the printing landscape. As you chart your course forward, may the insights gleaned from our exploration empower you to navigate the seas of change with confidence and clarity. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the essentials of Web-to-Print. Until we meet again, print boldly and prosper!

**<br>**

<h2><strong>#8: Web-to-Print Essentials: The Essence of Responsive Web Design in Web-to-Print</strong></h2>
<p>Welcome to the final instalment of our comprehensive exploration into the heart of <a href="/resources/web-to-print-guide">Web-to-Print</a> essentials. Today, we embark on a journey through the realm of Responsive Web Design, a cornerstone of modern digital systems. As we delve into the intricacies of Responsive Web Design, we uncover the fundamental elements that distinguish exceptional Web-to-Print software.</p>
<p><strong>Is it Responsive?</strong></p>
<p>In an era where mobile devices reign supreme, responsiveness is non-negotiable. Your Web-to-Print solution should seamlessly adapt to any screen size, whether it’s a desktop monitor, tablet, or smartphone. With over 54% of internet traffic originating from mobile devices, ensuring cross-device compatibility is imperative for reaching your audience effectively. That is why companies such as <a href="/about">Vpress</a> make continuous improvements to their systems responsiveness making sure customers have an amazing user experience no matter the device.</p>
<p><strong>Are Updates Made to Keep Up with Tech?</strong></p>
<p>Technology evolves at a rapid pace, and your Web-to-Print solution must keep pace with the latest advancements. Regular updates signify a commitment to innovation and improvement. By staying abreast of emerging technologies, your chosen platform can provide enhanced features, improved performance, and strengthened security, ensuring that your print operations remain cutting-edge and future-proof.</p>
<p><strong>Does it Have a Good User Interface?</strong></p>
<p>User experience is the linchpin of successful digital platforms. A good Web-to-Print solution boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface that simplifies complex tasks and enhances productivity. From seamless navigation to intuitive design elements, prioritise a platform that prioritises the user experience, empowering your team to accomplish more with ease. A user-friendly system enhances customer retention by streamlining the editing and ordering processes. Conversely, complex user interfaces can lead to customer frustration, prompting them to return to previous procurement methods.</p>
<p><strong>What are the Limitations?</strong></p>
<p>While Web-to-Print solutions offer immense flexibility and convenience, it’s crucial to understand their limitations. Whether it’s compatibility issues with certain browsers, constraints on customisation, or limitations in feature sets, being aware of the platform’s constraints enables you to make informed decisions and work around potential challenges effectively.</p>
<p>In conclusion, Responsive Web Design serves as the beacon guiding Web-to-Print solutions into the future. By embracing the principles of adaptability, innovation, and user-centric design, your organization can unlock new levels of efficiency, agility, and success in the printing landscape. As you chart your course forward, may the insights gleaned from our exploration empower you to navigate the seas of change with confidence and clarity. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the essentials of Web-to-Print. Until we meet again, print boldly and prosper!</p>
<p><strong><br></strong></p>


#8: Web-to-Print Essentials: The Essence of Responsive Web Design in Web to Print

## **\#7 Web-to-Print Essentials – API Accessibility**

Welcome to blog 7 of our 8 blog journey exploring the fundamental elements of [Web-to-Print](/resources/web-to-print-guide) solutions! This week, we delve into the dynamic world of API access and how it can be used to link systems together to significantly streamline the capabilities of your entire solution.

Put simply, an API is a method where one system can allow another to communicate with it via a range of commands (or calls). The most common example of this with a Web-to-Print system is the submitting of orders from one system to another. A second example may be maintaining product information between two systems so there is only ever a single source of truth. Update a product in one system, and any integrated system will be automatically updated too.

A system without an API or the ability to connect to another API is like an its own island of information. Cut off from the mainland resulting in a huge time intensive manual effort to update both sides independently which costs time, money and leads to human error.

&nbsp;

###### **API: The Backbone of Integration**

**Ease of Implementation:** The ease with which you can implement an API plays a pivotal role in streamlining your Web-to-Print experience. Vpress takes pride in offering an API that is not only robust but also first class advice and support on your journey to ensure any API integration is a breeze for for your development team.

**System Compatibility:** A powerful API should be versatile, connecting seamlessly with various systems. Vpress’s API is designed to integrate with a wide array of systems, ensuring flexibility and compatibility with your current and future tech stack.

**Security and Performance:** Security isn’t just a feature; it’s a foundation. Vpress prioritises security and performance. We actively helps teams to achieve the best performance when using our API.

&nbsp;

###### **Support: Where Excellence Meets Assistance**

Having a powerful API is only half the battle won. At Vpress, we understand the significance of exceptional support to make your integration journey seamless and hassle-free.

**Dev Help Accessibility:** What if you need [developer](/services/bespokedevelopment) assistance? Vpress ensures that our skilled developers are readily available to provide the support you need, ensuring a smooth API integration process.

**Response Time:** Time is of the essence, and our commitment to prompt responses sets us apart. Vpress prides itself on quick response times, minimizing any potential disruptions to your workflow.

**Cost Transparency:** Worried about hidden costs? With Vpress, you can be confident in transparent pricing, with no surprise expenses. We believe in upfront honesty to help you plan your integration without financial surprises.

**Support Desk Access:** Our support desk is your gateway to assistance. Reach out whenever you need help, and our dedicated support team will guide you through any challenges you may encounter.

&nbsp;

###### **Conclusion: Elevate Your Web-to-Print Experience with Vpress**

In the realm of Web-to-Print, a robust API and unwavering support are the keys to success. Vpress not only offers a cutting-edge API solution but also stands by your side with a team of experts dedicated to your success. Ready to elevate your Web-to-Print experience? Explore the possibilities with Vpress, where innovation meets exceptional support. Stay tuned for next week’s edition as we unravel more Web-to-Print essentials!

<h2><strong>#7 Web-to-Print Essentials – API Accessibility</strong></h2>
<p>Welcome to blog 7 of our 8 blog journey exploring the fundamental elements of <a href="/resources/web-to-print-guide">Web-to-Print</a> solutions! This week, we delve into the dynamic world of API access and how it can be used to link systems together to significantly streamline the capabilities of your entire solution.</p>
<p>Put simply, an API is a method where one system can allow another to communicate with it via a range of commands (or calls). The most common example of this with a Web-to-Print system is the submitting of orders from one system to another. A second example may be maintaining product information between two systems so there is only ever a single source of truth. Update a product in one system, and any integrated system will be automatically updated too.</p>
<p>A system without an API or the ability to connect to another API is like an its own island of information. Cut off from the mainland resulting in a huge time intensive manual effort to update both sides independently which costs time, money and leads to human error.</p>
<p> </p>
<h6><strong>API: The Backbone of Integration</strong></h6>
<p><strong>Ease of Implementation:</strong> The ease with which you can implement an API plays a pivotal role in streamlining your Web-to-Print experience. Vpress takes pride in offering an API that is not only robust but also first class advice and support on your journey to ensure any API integration is a breeze for for your development team.</p>
<p><strong>System Compatibility:</strong> A powerful API should be versatile, connecting seamlessly with various systems. Vpress’s API is designed to integrate with a wide array of systems, ensuring flexibility and compatibility with your current and future tech stack.</p>
<p><strong>Security and Performance:</strong> Security isn’t just a feature; it’s a foundation. Vpress prioritises security and performance. We actively helps teams to achieve the best performance when using our API.</p>
<p> </p>
<h6><strong>Support: Where Excellence Meets Assistance</strong></h6>
<p>Having a powerful API is only half the battle won. At Vpress, we understand the significance of exceptional support to make your integration journey seamless and hassle-free.</p>
<p><strong>Dev Help Accessibility:</strong> What if you need <a href="/services/bespokedevelopment">developer</a> assistance? Vpress ensures that our skilled developers are readily available to provide the support you need, ensuring a smooth API integration process.</p>
<p><strong>Response Time:</strong> Time is of the essence, and our commitment to prompt responses sets us apart. Vpress prides itself on quick response times, minimizing any potential disruptions to your workflow.</p>
<p><strong>Cost Transparency:</strong> Worried about hidden costs? With Vpress, you can be confident in transparent pricing, with no surprise expenses. We believe in upfront honesty to help you plan your integration without financial surprises.</p>
<p><strong>Support Desk Access:</strong> Our support desk is your gateway to assistance. Reach out whenever you need help, and our dedicated support team will guide you through any challenges you may encounter.</p>
<p> </p>
<h6><strong>Conclusion: Elevate Your Web-to-Print Experience with Vpress</strong></h6>
<p>In the realm of Web-to-Print, a robust API and unwavering support are the keys to success. Vpress not only offers a cutting-edge API solution but also stands by your side with a team of experts dedicated to your success. Ready to elevate your Web-to-Print experience? Explore the possibilities with Vpress, where innovation meets exceptional support. Stay tuned for next week’s edition as we unravel more Web-to-Print essentials!</p>


#7 Web-to-Print Essentials – API Accessibility

## **\#6 Web-to-Print Essentials – Hosting and Security**

&nbsp;

Welcome back to our exploration of the crucial elements that make up an exceptional [Web-to-Print](/resources/web-to-print-guide) solution. In this sixth edition of our series, we dive into the stronghold of Hosting and Security, the bedrock upon which your digital print infrastructure is built. As you embark on your journey to find the perfect Web-to-Print software, consider the following questions as your guiding compass.

###### **Where is it Hosted?**

Your Web-to-Print solution should be hosted in a reliable and scalable environment. Understanding the hosting location is essential for data jurisdiction, compliance, and, ultimately, the accessibility and speed of your platform.

###### **Under What Security and Governance?**

The fortress walls must be robust. Investigate the security protocols and governance frameworks in place. Look for ISO standard certifications to ensure that your platform is safeguarded against potential threats.

###### **How Often are Changes Made?**

An agile system adapts to the evolving digital landscape. Frequent updates and improvements are a sign of a provider committed to staying ahead of the curve. Regular updates also ensure that security patches are promptly applied to protect your system from vulnerabilities.

###### **How Often is it Reviewed?**

Security is not a one-and-done endeavour. Regular security audits and reviews are imperative. This ongoing process ensures that any potential weaknesses are identified and addressed promptly, minimising the risk of security breaches.

###### **What Options are There for Access?**

Flexibility in access is paramount. A good Web-to-Print solution should offer various access options, whether it’s through desktop, mobile, or other devices. This ensures that your team can utilise the platform seamlessly, regardless of their location or device.

###### **How is the Data Stored?**

Data is the lifeblood of your print operations. Ensure that your chosen Web-to-Print solution employs secure and scalable data storage practices. Understanding how data is stored is crucial for making informed decisions about your print assets’ safety and accessibility.

###### **How is it Backed Up?**

Data loss can be catastrophic. Regular, automated backups are critical. Verify that your Web-to-Print solution has robust backup procedures in place to mitigate the risk of data loss.

###### **What is the Performance/Uptime?**

Downtime can disrupt your print operations. Ensure that your Web-to-Print solution boasts a high-performance infrastructure with minimal downtime. Look for guarantees and track records that demonstrate the reliability of the platform.

###### **In conclusion**

Hosting and Security form the foundation upon which your entire Web-to-Print ecosystem stands. By scrutinising these essential aspects and asking the right questions, you empower yourself to choose a solution that not only meets your immediate needs but also grows and evolves with your business. Stay tuned for our next edition, where we’ll explore the penultimate aspect of Web-to-Print essentials. Until then, print securely and prosper!

<h2><strong>#6 Web-to-Print Essentials – Hosting and Security</strong></h2>
<p> </p>
<p>Welcome back to our exploration of the crucial elements that make up an exceptional <a href="/resources/web-to-print-guide">Web-to-Print</a> solution. In this sixth edition of our series, we dive into the stronghold of Hosting and Security, the bedrock upon which your digital print infrastructure is built. As you embark on your journey to find the perfect Web-to-Print software, consider the following questions as your guiding compass.</p>
<h6><strong>Where is it Hosted?</strong></h6>
<p>Your Web-to-Print solution should be hosted in a reliable and scalable environment. Understanding the hosting location is essential for data jurisdiction, compliance, and, ultimately, the accessibility and speed of your platform.</p>
<h6><strong>Under What Security and Governance?</strong></h6>
<p>The fortress walls must be robust. Investigate the security protocols and governance frameworks in place. Look for ISO standard certifications to ensure that your platform is safeguarded against potential threats.</p>
<h6><strong>How Often are Changes Made?</strong></h6>
<p>An agile system adapts to the evolving digital landscape. Frequent updates and improvements are a sign of a provider committed to staying ahead of the curve. Regular updates also ensure that security patches are promptly applied to protect your system from vulnerabilities.</p>
<h6><strong>How Often is it Reviewed?</strong></h6>
<p>Security is not a one-and-done endeavour. Regular security audits and reviews are imperative. This ongoing process ensures that any potential weaknesses are identified and addressed promptly, minimising the risk of security breaches.</p>
<h6><strong>What Options are There for Access?</strong></h6>
<p>Flexibility in access is paramount. A good Web-to-Print solution should offer various access options, whether it’s through desktop, mobile, or other devices. This ensures that your team can utilise the platform seamlessly, regardless of their location or device.</p>
<h6><strong>How is the Data Stored?</strong></h6>
<p>Data is the lifeblood of your print operations. Ensure that your chosen Web-to-Print solution employs secure and scalable data storage practices. Understanding how data is stored is crucial for making informed decisions about your print assets’ safety and accessibility.</p>
<h6><strong>How is it Backed Up?</strong></h6>
<p>Data loss can be catastrophic. Regular, automated backups are critical. Verify that your Web-to-Print solution has robust backup procedures in place to mitigate the risk of data loss.</p>
<h6><strong>What is the Performance/Uptime?</strong></h6>
<p>Downtime can disrupt your print operations. Ensure that your Web-to-Print solution boasts a high-performance infrastructure with minimal downtime. Look for guarantees and track records that demonstrate the reliability of the platform.</p>
<h6><strong>In conclusion</strong></h6>
<p>Hosting and Security form the foundation upon which your entire Web-to-Print ecosystem stands. By scrutinising these essential aspects and asking the right questions, you empower yourself to choose a solution that not only meets your immediate needs but also grows and evolves with your business. Stay tuned for our next edition, where we’ll explore the penultimate aspect of Web-to-Print essentials. Until then, print securely and prosper!</p>


#6 Web-to-Print Essentials – Hosting and Security

## **\#5 Web-to-Print Essentials – The Power of Support and Development**

Welcome back to our exploration of Web-to-Print essentials! In this crucial fifth instalment of our eight-part series, we delve into the post-purchase phase, emphasising the significance of robust Support and Development. As you embark on your Web-to-Print journey, a dependable support team and responsive development capabilities are pivotal for scalability and long-term success.

**The Pillars of Post-Purchase Success:**

**1\. Dedicated Account Manager:**

A true partner in your Web-to-Print journey is a provider who assigns you a dedicated Account Manager. This individual becomes your ally, knowing your business intricately and understanding your unique needs. With a dedicated Account Manager, you can rest assured that there is always someone familiar with your project, ready to assist with support or spearhead new development initiatives.

**2\. Responsive Support Team:**

A good support team is the backbone of any successful venture, and in the realm of Web-to-Print, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless operations and client satisfaction. What distinguishes an exceptional support team is a combination of responsiveness, expertise, and a customer-centric approach. First and foremost, they should be readily accessible, acknowledging queries and issues promptly. A deep understanding of the product or service they support is imperative, allowing them to offer insightful solutions swiftly. Checking [customer service](https://www.capterra.co.uk/software/162536/coreprint#reviews) scores on review websites would be a good indicator of what is to come when selecting a Web-to-Print partner.

###### **3\. Ownership of Technology:**

Understanding the provider’s approach to technology is crucial. Does your Web-to-Print provider own their software? Do they boast an in-house development team or outsource their work? A reliable partner owns their tech, giving them the agility to adapt swiftly to market changes and address your evolving needs. An in-house dev team ensures a faster turnaround for development work, aligning seamlessly with your systems and third-party integrations. Companies like [Vpress](/) keep all dev work in-house ensuring they have all the tools they need to adapt to market changes and manage any new integrations needed quickly.

###### **4\. Software Uptime Assurance:**

In the fast-paced digital landscape, downtime is a potential threat. A trustworthy Web-to-Print provider should be transparent about software uptime, providing you with the assurance of continuous service. Inquiring about measures in place to minimise disruptions showcases their commitment to keeping your business running smoothly.

###### **Conclusion:**

In the dynamic world of Web-to-Print, the journey doesn’t conclude with the purchase; it evolves and thrives with unwavering support and development capabilities. A provider like Vpress understands that your success is intertwined with theirs. From a dedicated Account Manager to a responsive support team and ownership of technology, these elements are the keystones of a partnership that propels your business forward.

Stay tuned for the next part in our series, where we delve deeper into another crucial aspect of finding the ideal Web-to-Print partner for your business.

<h2><strong>#5 Web-to-Print Essentials – The Power of Support and Development</strong></h2>
<p>Welcome back to our exploration of Web-to-Print essentials! In this crucial fifth instalment of our eight-part series, we delve into the post-purchase phase, emphasising the significance of robust Support and Development. As you embark on your Web-to-Print journey, a dependable support team and responsive development capabilities are pivotal for scalability and long-term success.</p>
<p><strong>The Pillars of Post-Purchase Success:</strong></p>
<p><strong>1. Dedicated Account Manager:</strong></p>
<p>A true partner in your Web-to-Print journey is a provider who assigns you a dedicated Account Manager. This individual becomes your ally, knowing your business intricately and understanding your unique needs. With a dedicated Account Manager, you can rest assured that there is always someone familiar with your project, ready to assist with support or spearhead new development initiatives.</p>
<p><strong>2. Responsive Support Team:</strong></p>
<p>A good support team is the backbone of any successful venture, and in the realm of Web-to-Print, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless operations and client satisfaction. What distinguishes an exceptional support team is a combination of responsiveness, expertise, and a customer-centric approach. First and foremost, they should be readily accessible, acknowledging queries and issues promptly. A deep understanding of the product or service they support is imperative, allowing them to offer insightful solutions swiftly. Checking <a href="https://www.capterra.co.uk/software/162536/coreprint#reviews">customer service</a> scores on review websites would be a good indicator of what is to come when selecting a Web-to-Print partner.</p>
<h6><strong>3. Ownership of Technology:</strong></h6>
<p>Understanding the provider’s approach to technology is crucial. Does your Web-to-Print provider own their software? Do they boast an in-house development team or outsource their work? A reliable partner owns their tech, giving them the agility to adapt swiftly to market changes and address your evolving needs. An in-house dev team ensures a faster turnaround for development work, aligning seamlessly with your systems and third-party integrations. Companies like <a href="/">Vpress</a> keep all dev work in-house ensuring they have all the tools they need to adapt to market changes and manage any new integrations needed quickly.</p>
<h6><strong>4. Software Uptime Assurance:</strong></h6>
<p>In the fast-paced digital landscape, downtime is a potential threat. A trustworthy Web-to-Print provider should be transparent about software uptime, providing you with the assurance of continuous service. Inquiring about measures in place to minimise disruptions showcases their commitment to keeping your business running smoothly.</p>
<h6><strong>Conclusion:</strong></h6>
<p>In the dynamic world of Web-to-Print, the journey doesn’t conclude with the purchase; it evolves and thrives with unwavering support and development capabilities. A provider like Vpress understands that your success is intertwined with theirs. From a dedicated Account Manager to a responsive support team and ownership of technology, these elements are the keystones of a partnership that propels your business forward.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for the next part in our series, where we delve deeper into another crucial aspect of finding the ideal Web-to-Print partner for your business.</p>


#5 Web-to-Print Essentials – The Power of Support and Development

## \#4 Web-to-Print Essentials – Integrations into Workflows

In today's fast-paced business landscape, efficiency is not just a buzzword—it's a necessity. As we continue our series on finding the right Web-to-Print partner for your company, we delve into the crucial aspect of integration into workflows and why it's an indispensable factor in the selection process.

### Why Automation is Crucial to Efficiency

Efficiency drives productivity, and automation lies at the heart of efficiency. Embracing automated processes streamlines workflows, reduces manual intervention, minimises errors, and accelerates tasks. When considering a Web-to-Print partner, assessing their ability to integrate seamlessly into your existing workflows is paramount for achieving these efficiency gains.

Here are four key points to consider when evaluating a Web-to-Print partner's integration capabilities:

### API and Integration Support

A robust API (Application Programming Interface) is the cornerstone of seamless integration. Does the Web-to-Print solution offer an API? More importantly, does it come with comprehensive support?

Key considerations:

* Can it easily integrate with your existing website, particularly for B2C models?
* What are the costs involved in further integration?
* Is developer support readily available?
* What are the expected timeframes for [integration](/about/partners)?

### Service-Level Agreement (SLA)

An SLA outlines the terms and conditions of the service provided by the Web-to-Print partner. Important questions to ask:

* Does the SLA include development hours specifically allocated for integration purposes?
* Where is the development team located (in-house or outsourced)?
* How does this affect communication and response times?
* What impact will this have on integration speed and efficiency?

### Workflow and MIS Integration

Assess how effectively the Web-to-Print solution integrates into your workflow or Management Information System (MIS). Key factors to evaluate:

* Compatibility with existing systems
* Power of the integrations offered
* Ability to streamline operations
* Data flow and information exchange capabilities

### ERP/CRM Integration

A comprehensive Web-to-Print solution should seamlessly integrate with your customers Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. Consider:

* Compatibility with specific ERP/CRM systems
* Level of integration possible
* Partner's track record with similar integrations
* Integration capabilities and limitations

### In Conclusion

At [Vpress](/), we understand the critical role of integration in elevating the efficiency and effectiveness of Web-to-Print solutions. Our focus on providing robust APIs, comprehensive support, and streamlined integration processes ensures that our solution seamlessly aligns with your existing workflows, MIS, ERP, and CRM systems.

Selecting the right Web-to-Print partner involves meticulous evaluation of their integration capabilities. By prioritising seamless integration into your workflows, you pave the way for:

* Enhanced efficiency
* Reduced manual intervention
* Accelerated business growth

Stay tuned for the next part in our series, where we delve deeper into another crucial aspect of finding the ideal Web-to-Print partner for your business.

<h2>#4 Web-to-Print Essentials – Integrations into Workflows</h2>
<p>In today's fast-paced business landscape, efficiency is not just a buzzword—it's a necessity. As we continue our series on finding the right Web-to-Print partner for your company, we delve into the crucial aspect of integration into workflows and why it's an indispensable factor in the selection process.</p>
<h3>Why Automation is Crucial to Efficiency</h3>
<p>Efficiency drives productivity, and automation lies at the heart of efficiency. Embracing automated processes streamlines workflows, reduces manual intervention, minimises errors, and accelerates tasks. When considering a Web-to-Print partner, assessing their ability to integrate seamlessly into your existing workflows is paramount for achieving these efficiency gains.</p>
<p>Here are four key points to consider when evaluating a Web-to-Print partner's integration capabilities:</p>
<h3>API and Integration Support</h3>
<p>A robust API (Application Programming Interface) is the cornerstone of seamless integration. Does the Web-to-Print solution offer an API? More importantly, does it come with comprehensive support?</p>
<p>Key considerations:</p>
<ul>
<li>Can it easily integrate with your existing website, particularly for B2C models?</li>
<li>What are the costs involved in further integration?</li>
<li>Is developer support readily available?</li>
<li>What are the expected timeframes for <a href="/about/partners">integration</a>?</li>
</ul>
<h3>Service-Level Agreement (SLA)</h3>
<p>An SLA outlines the terms and conditions of the service provided by the Web-to-Print partner. Important questions to ask:</p>
<ul>
<li>Does the SLA include development hours specifically allocated for integration purposes?</li>
<li>Where is the development team located (in-house or outsourced)?</li>
<li>How does this affect communication and response times?</li>
<li>What impact will this have on integration speed and efficiency?</li>
</ul>
<h3>Workflow and MIS Integration</h3>
<p>Assess how effectively the Web-to-Print solution integrates into your workflow or Management Information System (MIS). Key factors to evaluate:</p>
<ul>
<li>Compatibility with existing systems</li>
<li>Power of the integrations offered</li>
<li>Ability to streamline operations</li>
<li>Data flow and information exchange capabilities</li>
</ul>
<h3>ERP/CRM Integration</h3>
<p>A comprehensive Web-to-Print solution should seamlessly integrate with your customers Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. Consider:</p>
<ul>
<li>Compatibility with specific ERP/CRM systems</li>
<li>Level of integration possible</li>
<li>Partner's track record with similar integrations</li>
<li>Integration capabilities and limitations</li>
</ul>
<h3>In Conclusion</h3>
<p>At <a href="/">Vpress</a>, we understand the critical role of integration in elevating the efficiency and effectiveness of Web-to-Print solutions. Our focus on providing robust APIs, comprehensive support, and streamlined integration processes ensures that our solution seamlessly aligns with your existing workflows, MIS, ERP, and CRM systems.</p>
<p>Selecting the right Web-to-Print partner involves meticulous evaluation of their integration capabilities. By prioritising seamless integration into your workflows, you pave the way for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Enhanced efficiency</li>
<li>Reduced manual intervention</li>
<li>Accelerated business growth</li>
</ul>
<p>Stay tuned for the next part in our series, where we delve deeper into another crucial aspect of finding the ideal Web-to-Print partner for your business.</p>


#4 Web-to-Print Essentials – Integrations into Workflows

## \#3 Web-to-Print Essentials – The Crucial Role of Access and Internationalization

In today's globalised market, businesses are increasingly reliant on [Web-to-Print](/products/coreprint) solutions to streamline their printing processes and meet diverse customer needs. However, finding the right Web-to-Print partner involves more than just looking at what features they offer. One key point to consider is access and internationalization. Here are five pivotal reasons why access and internationalization are essential considerations when selecting the perfect Web-to-Print partner for your company.

### 1\. Multilingual Capabilities

The ability of a Web-to-Print system to support multiple languages is paramount. Key considerations include:

* Support for diverse linguistic needs
* Alignment with customer preferences
* Future-proofing for potential language requirements
* User interface localization
* Content translation capabilities

*Vpress has over 26 languages available on the system already and are always happy to add more when/if needed.*

### 2\. Currency Management

Different currencies are a reality in the global marketplace. Essential features include:

* Support for multiple currencies
* Seamless currency management
* Global transaction capabilities
* Real-time currency conversion
* Regional pricing flexibility

*Multiple currencies and payment options are integrated into Vpress software to make it easy to transact with customers no matter where they are in an easy and efficient way.*

### 3\. Regional Variations Support

Regional variations encompass more than just language and currency. Important aspects include:

* Diverse accessibility options
* Service availability management
* Regional delivery options
* Tax handling capabilities
* Local regulation compliance

*With over 5,000 brands signed onto our system we have encountered numerous customers with specific regional needs. Whether they need a secure cloud-based system that can be accessed anywhere in the world or single sign on features that filter the products and services viewed by each individual we have created solutions that solved all their needs.*

### 4\. Accessible and Secure Cloud-Based System

Accessibility and security are crucial elements. Key features include:

* Cloud-based infrastructure
* No software plugin requirements
* Robust data protection
* Enhanced system security
* Global accessibility

*Vpress is a cloud-based system that can be accessed anywhere in the world. We also fall under the United Kingdom security regulations, some of the strictest in the world. We have various security certification including ISO 22301:2019, the only auditable international standard for information security.*

### 5\. Mobile Responsiveness

With over 54% of eCommerce sales coming through mobile devices, mobile responsiveness is non-negotiable. Essential aspects include:

* Cross-device optimization
* Responsive design
* Seamless mobile functionality
* User-friendly interface
* Consistent experience across devices

Our team of in-house developers have developed a system with end users in mind. So, no matter if it's a tablet, phone, or computer our software is made to have an exceptional User Interface making sure all users have a magnificent experience no matter the device.

### In Conclusion

At Vpress, we understand the pivotal role of access and internationalization in a successful Web-to-Print partnership. Our Web-to-Print solutions are meticulously designed to embrace diversity, ensuring multilingual support, currency flexibility, regional variations, and secure cloud-based accessibility.

Our commitment to a mobile-responsive design guarantees that customers can access and utilise our Web-to-Print solutions effortlessly, irrespective of their device.

By prioritising these five essential aspects in access and internationalization, businesses pave the way for an inclusive, user-friendly, and globally accessible Web-to-Print solution, elevating customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Stay tuned for our next blog as we continue to uncover crucial considerations for selecting the ideal [Web-to-Print partner](/contact).

<h2>#3 Web-to-Print Essentials – The Crucial Role of Access and Internationalization</h2>
<p>In today's globalised market, businesses are increasingly reliant on <a href="/products/coreprint">Web-to-Print</a> solutions to streamline their printing processes and meet diverse customer needs. However, finding the right Web-to-Print partner involves more than just looking at what features they offer. One key point to consider is access and internationalization. Here are five pivotal reasons why access and internationalization are essential considerations when selecting the perfect Web-to-Print partner for your company.</p>
<h3>1. Multilingual Capabilities</h3>
<p>The ability of a Web-to-Print system to support multiple languages is paramount. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Support for diverse linguistic needs</li>
<li>Alignment with customer preferences</li>
<li>Future-proofing for potential language requirements</li>
<li>User interface localization</li>
<li>Content translation capabilities</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Vpress has over 26 languages available on the system already and are always happy to add more when/if needed.</em></p>
<h3>2. Currency Management</h3>
<p>Different currencies are a reality in the global marketplace. Essential features include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Support for multiple currencies</li>
<li>Seamless currency management</li>
<li>Global transaction capabilities</li>
<li>Real-time currency conversion</li>
<li>Regional pricing flexibility</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Multiple currencies and payment options are integrated into Vpress software to make it easy to transact with customers no matter where they are in an easy and efficient way.</em></p>
<h3>3. Regional Variations Support</h3>
<p>Regional variations encompass more than just language and currency. Important aspects include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Diverse accessibility options</li>
<li>Service availability management</li>
<li>Regional delivery options</li>
<li>Tax handling capabilities</li>
<li>Local regulation compliance</li>
</ul>
<p><em>With over 5,000 brands signed onto our system we have encountered numerous customers with specific regional needs. Whether they need a secure cloud-based system that can be accessed anywhere in the world or single sign on features that filter the products and services viewed by each individual we have created solutions that solved all their needs.</em></p>
<h3>4. Accessible and Secure Cloud-Based System</h3>
<p>Accessibility and security are crucial elements. Key features include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Cloud-based infrastructure</li>
<li>No software plugin requirements</li>
<li>Robust data protection</li>
<li>Enhanced system security</li>
<li>Global accessibility</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Vpress is a cloud-based system that can be accessed anywhere in the world. We also fall under the United Kingdom security regulations, some of the strictest in the world. We have various security certification including ISO 22301:2019, the only auditable international standard for information security.</em></p>
<h3>5. Mobile Responsiveness</h3>
<p>With over 54% of eCommerce sales coming through mobile devices, mobile responsiveness is non-negotiable. Essential aspects include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Cross-device optimization</li>
<li>Responsive design</li>
<li>Seamless mobile functionality</li>
<li>User-friendly interface</li>
<li>Consistent experience across devices</li>
</ul>
<p>Our team of in-house developers have developed a system with end users in mind. So, no matter if it's a tablet, phone, or computer our software is made to have an exceptional User Interface making sure all users have a magnificent experience no matter the device.</p>
<h3>In Conclusion</h3>
<p>At Vpress, we understand the pivotal role of access and internationalization in a successful Web-to-Print partnership. Our Web-to-Print solutions are meticulously designed to embrace diversity, ensuring multilingual support, currency flexibility, regional variations, and secure cloud-based accessibility.</p>
<p>Our commitment to a mobile-responsive design guarantees that customers can access and utilise our Web-to-Print solutions effortlessly, irrespective of their device.</p>
<p>By prioritising these five essential aspects in access and internationalization, businesses pave the way for an inclusive, user-friendly, and globally accessible Web-to-Print solution, elevating customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for our next blog as we continue to uncover crucial considerations for selecting the ideal <a href="/contact">Web-to-Print partner</a>.</p>


#3 Web-to-Print Essentials – The Crucial Role of Access and Internationalization

## \#2 Web-to-Print Essentials – Partner Health Check

In the quest for the perfect Web-to-Print partner, ensuring their health and compatibility with your business is as crucial as the features they offer. Conducting a partner health check could be the difference between a successful collaboration and encountering unforeseen hurdles down the road. Here are the five fundamental reasons why evaluating partner health is essential in finding the right Web-to-Print partner for your company.

### 1\. Understanding Your Market and Business

The location and understanding of your Web-to-Print provider in relation to your market cannot be overstated. A partner who comprehends your language, understands the intricacies of your business, and resonates with your market nuances can significantly enhance collaboration and effectiveness.

*Vpress has offices in the UK and Canada as well as established resellers in South Africa and Australia. Working with over 5,000 brands within these markets we understand the market needs and how to help our customers meet their personalisation and automation objectives.*

### 2\. Longevity and Expertise

The longevity and expertise of a Web-to-Print provider speak volumes about their reliability and competence. Key factors to investigate include:

* Length of time in the industry
* Focus on Web-to-Print as primary expertise
* Track record of success
* Understanding of client needs
* Problem-solving capabilities

*With over 22 years of experience and solely focusing on* [*Web-to-Print excellence*](/products/coreprint) *we can safely say Vpress staff have experienced and overcome every possible challenge.*

### 3\. Sustainability and Financial Viability

Assessing the sustainability and financial health of your potential partner is crucial for a long-term collaboration. Important considerations include:

* Ownership structure
* Financial stability
* Debt levels and borrowings
* Risk mitigation strategies
* Service quality sustainability

*Vpress is a privately owned company that has always been self-funded and never incurred in any debt.*

### 4\. Integrity and Conflicts of Interest

Scrutinising the integrity of your prospective partner is vital. Key areas to examine:

* Market affiliations
* Competitor relationships
* Business transparency
* Customer interest protection
* Partnership approach

*As mentioned Vpress is a self-funded privately owned company that welcome cooperation with all* [*MIS providers and print associations*](/about/partners)*. This allows us to not be tied down to any company and be able to provide a good service to all our customers.*

### 5\. Support for Business Growth

A reliable Web-to-Print partner should not only meet your current needs but also grow alongside your business. Essential aspects include:

* Ongoing support capabilities
* Scalability options
* Innovation track record
* Adaptation to market changes
* Customer demand responsiveness

*Innovation is what we do, for decades we have been at the forefront of Web-to-Print technology. From becoming one of the first to adapt to new Variable Data Printing trends to creating* [*digital assets*](/products/vdocs) *that can sit alongside print, we pride ourselves on constantly evolving our system to meet arising needs.*

### In Conclusion

At Vpress, we recognize the significance of a robust partner health check in choosing the right Web-to-Print ally for your business. Our commitment to understanding your market, coupled with years of expertise and financial stability, ensures a trustworthy collaboration. We operate with integrity, free from conflicts of interest, and provide unwavering support as your business grows.

By prioritising these five crucial aspects in a partner health check, you pave the way for a successful, enduring partnership in the realm of Web-to-Print solutions. Choosing a Web-to-Print partner isn't just a business transaction; it's about aligning values, ensuring compatibility, and securing a partner committed to your success.

Stay tuned for our next blog as we delve deeper into essential considerations for selecting the ideal Web-to-Print partner.

<h2>#2 Web-to-Print Essentials – Partner Health Check</h2>
<p>In the quest for the perfect Web-to-Print partner, ensuring their health and compatibility with your business is as crucial as the features they offer. Conducting a partner health check could be the difference between a successful collaboration and encountering unforeseen hurdles down the road. Here are the five fundamental reasons why evaluating partner health is essential in finding the right Web-to-Print partner for your company.</p>
<h3>1. Understanding Your Market and Business</h3>
<p>The location and understanding of your Web-to-Print provider in relation to your market cannot be overstated. A partner who comprehends your language, understands the intricacies of your business, and resonates with your market nuances can significantly enhance collaboration and effectiveness.</p>
<p><em>Vpress has offices in the UK and Canada as well as established resellers in South Africa and Australia. Working with over 5,000 brands within these markets we understand the market needs and how to help our customers meet their personalisation and automation objectives.</em></p>
<h3>2. Longevity and Expertise</h3>
<p>The longevity and expertise of a Web-to-Print provider speak volumes about their reliability and competence. Key factors to investigate include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Length of time in the industry</li>
<li>Focus on Web-to-Print as primary expertise</li>
<li>Track record of success</li>
<li>Understanding of client needs</li>
<li>Problem-solving capabilities</li>
</ul>
<p><em>With over 22 years of experience and solely focusing on</em> <a href="/products/coreprint"><em>Web-to-Print excellence</em></a> <em>we can safely say Vpress staff have experienced and overcome every possible challenge.</em></p>
<h3>3. Sustainability and Financial Viability</h3>
<p>Assessing the sustainability and financial health of your potential partner is crucial for a long-term collaboration. Important considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ownership structure</li>
<li>Financial stability</li>
<li>Debt levels and borrowings</li>
<li>Risk mitigation strategies</li>
<li>Service quality sustainability</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Vpress is a privately owned company that has always been self-funded and never incurred in any debt.</em></p>
<h3>4. Integrity and Conflicts of Interest</h3>
<p>Scrutinising the integrity of your prospective partner is vital. Key areas to examine:</p>
<ul>
<li>Market affiliations</li>
<li>Competitor relationships</li>
<li>Business transparency</li>
<li>Customer interest protection</li>
<li>Partnership approach</li>
</ul>
<p><em>As mentioned Vpress is a self-funded privately owned company that welcome cooperation with all</em> <a href="/about/partners"><em>MIS providers and print associations</em></a><em>. This allows us to not be tied down to any company and be able to provide a good service to all our customers.</em></p>
<h3>5. Support for Business Growth</h3>
<p>A reliable Web-to-Print partner should not only meet your current needs but also grow alongside your business. Essential aspects include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ongoing support capabilities</li>
<li>Scalability options</li>
<li>Innovation track record</li>
<li>Adaptation to market changes</li>
<li>Customer demand responsiveness</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Innovation is what we do, for decades we have been at the forefront of Web-to-Print technology. From becoming one of the first to adapt to new Variable Data Printing trends to creating</em> <a href="/products/vdocs"><em>digital assets</em></a> <em>that can sit alongside print, we pride ourselves on constantly evolving our system to meet arising needs.</em></p>
<h3>In Conclusion</h3>
<p>At Vpress, we recognize the significance of a robust partner health check in choosing the right Web-to-Print ally for your business. Our commitment to understanding your market, coupled with years of expertise and financial stability, ensures a trustworthy collaboration. We operate with integrity, free from conflicts of interest, and provide unwavering support as your business grows.</p>
<p>By prioritising these five crucial aspects in a partner health check, you pave the way for a successful, enduring partnership in the realm of Web-to-Print solutions. Choosing a Web-to-Print partner isn't just a business transaction; it's about aligning values, ensuring compatibility, and securing a partner committed to your success.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for our next blog as we delve deeper into essential considerations for selecting the ideal Web-to-Print partner.</p>


#2 Web-to-Print Essentials – Partner Health Check

## \#1 Web-to-Print Essentials – System Capabilities

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital commerce, businesses are increasingly relying on Web-to-Print (W2P) systems to streamline their printing processes and meet customer demands efficiently. However, not all W2P solutions are created equal, and choosing the right partner for your company involves careful consideration of several essential factors. One of these essentials is system capabilities. Here, we delve into the five key aspects crucial in selecting the ideal Web-to-Print partner.

### 1\. Solution Fit: Meeting Your Needs & Engaging Customers

The first step in choosing a Web-to-Print partner is evaluating the solution's alignment with your business requirements. Key considerations include:

* B2B and/or B2C functionality
* Multi-language support
* Diverse pricing structures
* Personalized offerings
* Cloud-based infrastructure
* Robust security measures

*Vpress has a motto, 'Partnering Customers to Success'. That is why we make unique offerings that include our wide array of features in different packages tailored to your needs through our global cloud-based solution.*

### 2\. Product Range: Personalisation and Intuitive Offerings

A comprehensive Web-to-Print system should encompass a wide range of products while facilitating easy and intuitive personalisation. Essential features include:

* VDP (Variable Data Printing)
* Job Submission functionality
* RFQ (Request for Quote) capability
* Customization options

Check out the features offered by Vpress [here](/products/coreprint)!

*Whether it's customised printing materials, promotional items, or unique designs, Vpress empowers users to personalise products effortlessly, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.*

### 3\. Proven Solution: Reliability and Adaptability

The credibility of a Web-to-Print solution is paramount. Important factors include:

* Established track record
* Regional adoption success
* Multi-language support
* Multi-currency capabilities
* Market adaptability

*Vpress has been at the forefront of Web-to-Print technology for over 22 years. With over 5000 brands and 2000 printers across 50 countries utilising our services we have an exceptional track record of success. Our system also supports over 24 languages and multiple currencies ensuring global adaptability.*

### 4\. Integration: Seamless Connection to Your Ecosystem

Integration capabilities are crucial for maximizing system utility:

* Single Sign-On (SSO) integration
* Management Information System (MIS) integration
* Workflow integration
* CRM/ERP system compatibility
* Streamlined operations
* Error reduction
* Enhanced efficiency

*At Vpress not only do we offer a great API that integrates into your current software ecosystem, but we also have a team of expert in-house developers that can hold your hand though all integrations ensuring the perfect fit.*

### 5\. Location & Accessibility: Data Security and Accessibility

Critical considerations for system hosting include:

* Data storage location
* Development location
* Security compliance
* Support accessibility
* Customization options

*Hosted in the UK and under UK regulation Vpress boasts unparallel security, including ISO 22301:2019, the only auditable international standard for information security.*

### In Conclusion

The success of your business greatly hinges on the Web-to-Print partner you choose. By carefully evaluating and prioritising these five key aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives and sets the stage for continued growth and success. Remember, the right Web-to-Print partner isn't just a vendor; they become an integral part of your operational success and customer satisfaction.

At Vpress, we understand the significance of these critical factors in selecting the right Web-to-Print partner for your business. Our Web2Print solutions are designed to not only meet but exceed these expectations. With a proven track record, comprehensive product offerings, seamless integration capabilities, and robust security measures, Vpress stands as a reliable partner in your journey towards efficient and effective printing solutions.

Partner with Vpress for a seamless, adaptable, and reliable Web-to-Print solution that meets your unique business needs. [Contact us](/contact) today to explore how we can empower your printing processes.

<h2>#1 Web-to-Print Essentials – System Capabilities</h2>
<p>In the ever-evolving landscape of digital commerce, businesses are increasingly relying on Web-to-Print (W2P) systems to streamline their printing processes and meet customer demands efficiently. However, not all W2P solutions are created equal, and choosing the right partner for your company involves careful consideration of several essential factors. One of these essentials is system capabilities. Here, we delve into the five key aspects crucial in selecting the ideal Web-to-Print partner.</p>
<h3>1. Solution Fit: Meeting Your Needs &amp; Engaging Customers</h3>
<p>The first step in choosing a Web-to-Print partner is evaluating the solution's alignment with your business requirements. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li>B2B and/or B2C functionality</li>
<li>Multi-language support</li>
<li>Diverse pricing structures</li>
<li>Personalized offerings</li>
<li>Cloud-based infrastructure</li>
<li>Robust security measures</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Vpress has a motto, 'Partnering Customers to Success'. That is why we make unique offerings that include our wide array of features in different packages tailored to your needs through our global cloud-based solution.</em></p>
<h3>2. Product Range: Personalisation and Intuitive Offerings</h3>
<p>A comprehensive Web-to-Print system should encompass a wide range of products while facilitating easy and intuitive personalisation. Essential features include:</p>
<ul>
<li>VDP (Variable Data Printing)</li>
<li>Job Submission functionality</li>
<li>RFQ (Request for Quote) capability</li>
<li>Customization options</li>
</ul>
<p>Check out the features offered by Vpress <a href="/products/coreprint">here</a>!</p>
<p><em>Whether it's customised printing materials, promotional items, or unique designs, Vpress empowers users to personalise products effortlessly, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.</em></p>
<h3>3. Proven Solution: Reliability and Adaptability</h3>
<p>The credibility of a Web-to-Print solution is paramount. Important factors include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Established track record</li>
<li>Regional adoption success</li>
<li>Multi-language support</li>
<li>Multi-currency capabilities</li>
<li>Market adaptability</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Vpress has been at the forefront of Web-to-Print technology for over 22 years. With over 5000 brands and 2000 printers across 50 countries utilising our services we have an exceptional track record of success. Our system also supports over 24 languages and multiple currencies ensuring global adaptability.</em></p>
<h3>4. Integration: Seamless Connection to Your Ecosystem</h3>
<p>Integration capabilities are crucial for maximizing system utility:</p>
<ul>
<li>Single Sign-On (SSO) integration</li>
<li>Management Information System (MIS) integration</li>
<li>Workflow integration</li>
<li>CRM/ERP system compatibility</li>
<li>Streamlined operations</li>
<li>Error reduction</li>
<li>Enhanced efficiency</li>
</ul>
<p><em>At Vpress not only do we offer a great API that integrates into your current software ecosystem, but we also have a team of expert in-house developers that can hold your hand though all integrations ensuring the perfect fit.</em></p>
<h3>5. Location &amp; Accessibility: Data Security and Accessibility</h3>
<p>Critical considerations for system hosting include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Data storage location</li>
<li>Development location</li>
<li>Security compliance</li>
<li>Support accessibility</li>
<li>Customization options</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Hosted in the UK and under UK regulation Vpress boasts unparallel security, including ISO 22301:2019, the only auditable international standard for information security.</em></p>
<h3>In Conclusion</h3>
<p>The success of your business greatly hinges on the Web-to-Print partner you choose. By carefully evaluating and prioritising these five key aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives and sets the stage for continued growth and success. Remember, the right Web-to-Print partner isn't just a vendor; they become an integral part of your operational success and customer satisfaction.</p>
<p>At Vpress, we understand the significance of these critical factors in selecting the right Web-to-Print partner for your business. Our Web2Print solutions are designed to not only meet but exceed these expectations. With a proven track record, comprehensive product offerings, seamless integration capabilities, and robust security measures, Vpress stands as a reliable partner in your journey towards efficient and effective printing solutions.</p>
<p>Partner with Vpress for a seamless, adaptable, and reliable Web-to-Print solution that meets your unique business needs. <a href="/contact">Contact us</a> today to explore how we can empower your printing processes.</p>


#1 Web-to-Print Essentials – System Capabilities

## Are Lead Generation Sales What they Claim to be?

In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, success is closely tied to a company's ability to generate quality leads. The rise of lead generation sales has been nothing short of revolutionary, empowering businesses across various industries to connect with potential customers in a more targeted and effective manner. Here, we will delve into the concept of lead generation sales, its evolution over time, and its significant impact on modern businesses, particularly print based businesses.

### Understanding Lead Generation Sales

Lead generation sales refers to the process of identifying and capturing potential customers' interest in a product or service, with the ultimate goal of converting them into paying customers. This process involves several techniques and strategies:

* Content marketing
* Email marketing
* Social media marketing
* Search engine optimisation (SEO)

If (like me) you have used [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/vpress/) increasingly over the past three years, you will notice if you have "Sales" or "Business Development" in your title you are hounded by companies telling you what you are doing wrong and how they can help you achieve your goals! Often these people have worked in their role for the last 3-6 months and for a startup which has yet to file its first Accounts.

### The Evolution of Lead Generation

#### Traditional Methods

In the past, businesses relied on:

* Traditional advertising
* Outbound marketing techniques
* Television commercials
* Radio ads
* Direct mail
* Localized advertising (particularly in the print industry)

While these methods were effective to some extent, they lacked the precision and efficiency that modern lead generation strategies offer.

### The Digital Transformation

With the advent of the internet and digital technologies, lead generation underwent a transformation. Key changes include:

* Shift towards inbound marketing
* Focus on valuable content
* Enhanced customer engagement
* Building trust and credibility
* More customer-centric approach

### Modern Lead Generation Tools

Digital marketing has become the cornerstone of lead generation sales, utilizing:

* Websites
* Social media platforms
* Search engines
* Email marketing
* Targeted demographics
* Behavioral analysis
* Interest-based targeting

### The Role of Technology

Modern lead generation has been enhanced by:

1. Data Analytics
   * Consumer behavior insights
   * Preference tracking
   * Performance metrics
2. Artificial Intelligence
   * Predictive customer needs
   * Audience segmentation
   * Automated marketing campaigns
   * Personalized outreach

### Benefits of Modern Lead Generation

When properly managed, lead generation offers several advantages:

* Increased conversion rates
* Better metrics and tracking
* Improved customer engagement
* More targeted prospect identification
* Better quality leads (though potentially at higher cost)
* Enhanced data-driven decision making
* Improved timing for customer engagement

### A Word of Caution

While lead generation sales have transformed business marketing, it's important to note some potential pitfalls:

* Many service providers may be inexperienced
* Companies aggressively marketing on LinkedIn often lack substance
* Some providers may be more interested in your marketing budget than your success
* The importance of thorough research before choosing a provider
* Value of recommendations from businesses with similar objectives

### Conclusion

The rise of lead generation sales has transformed the way businesses approach marketing and customer acquisition. By embracing digital technologies, data analytics, and AI, companies can now connect with their target audience in a more personalised and effective manner.

However, success requires:

* Careful provider selection
* thorough research
* Reliance on proven recommendations
* Clear business objectives
* Understanding of your specific market needs

As the business landscape continues to evolve, lead generation sales will remain crucial for marketing success, but it's essential to approach it with due diligence and careful consideration of your specific business needs.

<h2>Are Lead Generation Sales What they Claim to be?</h2>
<p>In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, success is closely tied to a company's ability to generate quality leads. The rise of lead generation sales has been nothing short of revolutionary, empowering businesses across various industries to connect with potential customers in a more targeted and effective manner. Here, we will delve into the concept of lead generation sales, its evolution over time, and its significant impact on modern businesses, particularly print based businesses.</p>
<h3>Understanding Lead Generation Sales</h3>
<p>Lead generation sales refers to the process of identifying and capturing potential customers' interest in a product or service, with the ultimate goal of converting them into paying customers. This process involves several techniques and strategies:</p>
<ul>
<li>Content marketing</li>
<li>Email marketing</li>
<li>Social media marketing</li>
<li>Search engine optimisation (SEO)</li>
</ul>
<p>If (like me) you have used <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/vpress/">LinkedIn</a> increasingly over the past three years, you will notice if you have &quot;Sales&quot; or &quot;Business Development&quot; in your title you are hounded by companies telling you what you are doing wrong and how they can help you achieve your goals! Often these people have worked in their role for the last 3-6 months and for a startup which has yet to file its first Accounts.</p>
<h3>The Evolution of Lead Generation</h3>
<h4>Traditional Methods</h4>
<p>In the past, businesses relied on:</p>
<ul>
<li>Traditional advertising</li>
<li>Outbound marketing techniques</li>
<li>Television commercials</li>
<li>Radio ads</li>
<li>Direct mail</li>
<li>Localized advertising (particularly in the print industry)</li>
</ul>
<p>While these methods were effective to some extent, they lacked the precision and efficiency that modern lead generation strategies offer.</p>
<h3>The Digital Transformation</h3>
<p>With the advent of the internet and digital technologies, lead generation underwent a transformation. Key changes include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Shift towards inbound marketing</li>
<li>Focus on valuable content</li>
<li>Enhanced customer engagement</li>
<li>Building trust and credibility</li>
<li>More customer-centric approach</li>
</ul>
<h3>Modern Lead Generation Tools</h3>
<p>Digital marketing has become the cornerstone of lead generation sales, utilizing:</p>
<ul>
<li>Websites</li>
<li>Social media platforms</li>
<li>Search engines</li>
<li>Email marketing</li>
<li>Targeted demographics</li>
<li>Behavioral analysis</li>
<li>Interest-based targeting</li>
</ul>
<h3>The Role of Technology</h3>
<p>Modern lead generation has been enhanced by:</p>
<ol>
<li>Data Analytics
<ul>
<li>Consumer behavior insights</li>
<li>Preference tracking</li>
<li>Performance metrics</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Artificial Intelligence
<ul>
<li>Predictive customer needs</li>
<li>Audience segmentation</li>
<li>Automated marketing campaigns</li>
<li>Personalized outreach</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Benefits of Modern Lead Generation</h3>
<p>When properly managed, lead generation offers several advantages:</p>
<ul>
<li>Increased conversion rates</li>
<li>Better metrics and tracking</li>
<li>Improved customer engagement</li>
<li>More targeted prospect identification</li>
<li>Better quality leads (though potentially at higher cost)</li>
<li>Enhanced data-driven decision making</li>
<li>Improved timing for customer engagement</li>
</ul>
<h3>A Word of Caution</h3>
<p>While lead generation sales have transformed business marketing, it's important to note some potential pitfalls:</p>
<ul>
<li>Many service providers may be inexperienced</li>
<li>Companies aggressively marketing on LinkedIn often lack substance</li>
<li>Some providers may be more interested in your marketing budget than your success</li>
<li>The importance of thorough research before choosing a provider</li>
<li>Value of recommendations from businesses with similar objectives</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<p>The rise of lead generation sales has transformed the way businesses approach marketing and customer acquisition. By embracing digital technologies, data analytics, and AI, companies can now connect with their target audience in a more personalised and effective manner.</p>
<p>However, success requires:</p>
<ul>
<li>Careful provider selection</li>
<li>thorough research</li>
<li>Reliance on proven recommendations</li>
<li>Clear business objectives</li>
<li>Understanding of your specific market needs</li>
</ul>
<p>As the business landscape continues to evolve, lead generation sales will remain crucial for marketing success, but it's essential to approach it with due diligence and careful consideration of your specific business needs.</p>


Are Lead Generation Sales What they Claim to be?

## Web-to-Print – Improve Service and Cut Costs

In today's highly competitive printing industry, finding ways to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency is crucial for sustained success. One powerful tool that can help printers achieve these goals is a Web-to-Print portal. A Web-to-Print portal is an online platform that allows customers to conveniently place print orders, customize designs, and upload files for printing. Beyond its customer-facing benefits, a well-implemented [Web-to-Print](/) portal can also deliver significant cost savings for printers. In this blog post, we will explore how printers can leverage a Web-to-Print portal to save costs and enhance their bottom line.

### Minimised Administrative Tasks

One of the major cost-saving advantages of a Web-to-Print portal is the automation of administrative tasks. Benefits include:

* Direct customer order placement and management
* Reduced need for manual order processing
* Automated customer support
* Streamlined payment processing
* Automated file uploading and order tracking
* Reduced labor costs through staff time optimization

### Reduced Prepress Efforts

Preparing files for printing can be a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. A Web-to-Print portal offers several advantages:

* Customer upload of print-ready files
* Automated file specification compliance
* Reduced need for extensive prepress work
* Minimized errors and rework
* Streamlined proofing process
* Cost savings in manual file handling

### Standardized Print Templates

A Web-to-Print portal allows printers to offer standardised print templates to their customers. Key benefits include:

* Customizable templates within specified parameters
* Ensured design consistency
* Reduced need for extensive design work
* Time savings in design process
* Maintained personalization options
* Cost-effective template management

### Efficient Inventory Management

Printers can better manage their inventory through Web-to-Print portal integration:

* Real-time stock level monitoring
* Automated reordering processes
* Reduced risk of stockouts
* Prevention of overstocking
* Minimized holding costs
* Reduced material waste
* Improved operational efficiency

### Improved Production Planning

Efficient production planning is crucial for cost savings in the printing industry. A Web-to-Print portal provides:

* Real-time visibility of incoming orders
* Effective production schedule planning
* Better insights into order volumes
* Clear deadline tracking
* Detailed job specifications
* Optimized resource allocation
* Reduced production downtime
* Minimized waste

### Conclusion

Implementing a Web-to-Print portal can be a game-changer for printers looking to save costs and increase operational efficiency. The benefits include:

* Automated administrative processes
* Streamlined prepress operations
* Standardized template usage
* Enhanced inventory control
* Optimized production planning
* Improved customer experience
* Extended business reach

Investing in a reliable Web-to-Print solution and partnering with an experienced software provider can help printers seamlessly integrate this cost-saving tool into their operations. By leveraging the capabilities of a Web-to-Print portal, printers can:

* Achieve significant cost savings
* Boost productivity
* Increase customer satisfaction
* Maintain competitive advantage
* Drive business growth

The combination of improved service delivery and reduced operational costs makes Web-to-Print an essential tool for modern printing businesses looking to thrive in today's competitive market.

<h2>Web-to-Print – Improve Service and Cut Costs</h2>
<p>In today's highly competitive printing industry, finding ways to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency is crucial for sustained success. One powerful tool that can help printers achieve these goals is a Web-to-Print portal. A Web-to-Print portal is an online platform that allows customers to conveniently place print orders, customize designs, and upload files for printing. Beyond its customer-facing benefits, a well-implemented <a href="/">Web-to-Print</a> portal can also deliver significant cost savings for printers. In this blog post, we will explore how printers can leverage a Web-to-Print portal to save costs and enhance their bottom line.</p>
<h3>Minimised Administrative Tasks</h3>
<p>One of the major cost-saving advantages of a Web-to-Print portal is the automation of administrative tasks. Benefits include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Direct customer order placement and management</li>
<li>Reduced need for manual order processing</li>
<li>Automated customer support</li>
<li>Streamlined payment processing</li>
<li>Automated file uploading and order tracking</li>
<li>Reduced labor costs through staff time optimization</li>
</ul>
<h3>Reduced Prepress Efforts</h3>
<p>Preparing files for printing can be a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. A Web-to-Print portal offers several advantages:</p>
<ul>
<li>Customer upload of print-ready files</li>
<li>Automated file specification compliance</li>
<li>Reduced need for extensive prepress work</li>
<li>Minimized errors and rework</li>
<li>Streamlined proofing process</li>
<li>Cost savings in manual file handling</li>
</ul>
<h3>Standardized Print Templates</h3>
<p>A Web-to-Print portal allows printers to offer standardised print templates to their customers. Key benefits include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Customizable templates within specified parameters</li>
<li>Ensured design consistency</li>
<li>Reduced need for extensive design work</li>
<li>Time savings in design process</li>
<li>Maintained personalization options</li>
<li>Cost-effective template management</li>
</ul>
<h3>Efficient Inventory Management</h3>
<p>Printers can better manage their inventory through Web-to-Print portal integration:</p>
<ul>
<li>Real-time stock level monitoring</li>
<li>Automated reordering processes</li>
<li>Reduced risk of stockouts</li>
<li>Prevention of overstocking</li>
<li>Minimized holding costs</li>
<li>Reduced material waste</li>
<li>Improved operational efficiency</li>
</ul>
<h3>Improved Production Planning</h3>
<p>Efficient production planning is crucial for cost savings in the printing industry. A Web-to-Print portal provides:</p>
<ul>
<li>Real-time visibility of incoming orders</li>
<li>Effective production schedule planning</li>
<li>Better insights into order volumes</li>
<li>Clear deadline tracking</li>
<li>Detailed job specifications</li>
<li>Optimized resource allocation</li>
<li>Reduced production downtime</li>
<li>Minimized waste</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<p>Implementing a Web-to-Print portal can be a game-changer for printers looking to save costs and increase operational efficiency. The benefits include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Automated administrative processes</li>
<li>Streamlined prepress operations</li>
<li>Standardized template usage</li>
<li>Enhanced inventory control</li>
<li>Optimized production planning</li>
<li>Improved customer experience</li>
<li>Extended business reach</li>
</ul>
<p>Investing in a reliable Web-to-Print solution and partnering with an experienced software provider can help printers seamlessly integrate this cost-saving tool into their operations. By leveraging the capabilities of a Web-to-Print portal, printers can:</p>
<ul>
<li>Achieve significant cost savings</li>
<li>Boost productivity</li>
<li>Increase customer satisfaction</li>
<li>Maintain competitive advantage</li>
<li>Drive business growth</li>
</ul>
<p>The combination of improved service delivery and reduced operational costs makes Web-to-Print an essential tool for modern printing businesses looking to thrive in today's competitive market.</p>


Web-to-Print – Improve Service and Cut Costs

## The Future of Commercial Print

Commercial print, specifically the production of printed materials for business purposes, has long been a significant aspect of the advertising and marketing industry. It encompasses a wide range of products such as brochures, flyers, catalogues, direct mailers, and promotional materials. The advent of digital technologies and the rise of online marketing have undoubtedly impacted the print industry, but commercial print continues to hold relevance and adapt to changing times. In this article, we will explore the importance of commercial print and its trajectory in the current landscape in these uncertain times.

### The Tangible Advantage

Commercial print remains important because it offers a tangible and tactile experience that digital media cannot replicate. In an increasingly digital world, print materials provide:

* A sense of credibility
* Permanence
* Authenticity

Studies have shown that printed materials can leave a stronger impression on the human brain and evoke emotional responses more effectively compared to digital content. This physical presence can make a lasting impact on consumers, especially when combined with well-executed design and high-quality printing.

### Complementing Digital Marketing

Commercial print serves as a valuable complement to digital marketing strategies. While online platforms provide extensive reach and targeting capabilities, print materials can help businesses achieve a multi-channel approach, strengthening brand awareness and engagement. By integrating print with digital campaigns, companies can:

* Enhance overall marketing effectiveness
* Reach a broader audience
* Drive traffic to websites
* Boost social media engagement
* Foster customer loyalty

### Thriving Niche Markets

Commercial print continues to thrive in specific niche markets. Industries that heavily rely on printed materials include:

* Real estate (brochures and flyers for properties)
* Hospitality (menus, signage, promotional materials)
* Healthcare
* Retail

These sectors recognise the unique value that print brings to their marketing efforts, thereby sustaining the demand for commercial print services.

### Digital Innovation in Print

The commercial print industry has adapted to the digital age by incorporating innovative technologies. Advancements include:

* Digital printing enabling faster turnaround times
* Personalized marketing materials
* Cost-effective short print runs
* Variable data printing for customization
* Advanced finishing techniques (embossing, foil stamping, die-cutting)

All of this now is in easy grasp with the access that [Web-to-Print](/products/coreprint) providers any user 24/7! With the person ordering print now often NOT in a standard office location, the flexibility that online ordering offers, says Kelvin Bell Sales Director of global provider [Vpress](/about), meets the expectation of the customer head on. Online print is estimated at some 70% and only anticipated to grow over the 3-5yrs.

### Embracing Future Trends

The true future of commercial print lies in its ability to embrace emerging trends and technologies:

#### Sustainability Initiatives

* Eco-friendly inks
* Recycled paper
* Energy-efficient printing methods
* Reduced environmental impact
* Alignment with sustainable business practices

#### Augmented Reality Integration

* Transform static prints into interactive experiences
* Bridge the gap between print and digital media
* Enable access to additional information via smartphones
* Provide 3D models and video content
* Enhanced engagement and interactivity

### Conclusion

While the digital revolution has undoubtedly impacted the advertising and marketing landscape, commercial print remains relevant and vital. Its strengths include:

* Tangible nature
* Ability to complement digital marketing strategies
* Continued demand in specific industries
* Technological adaptations
* Integration with emerging technologies

The commercial print industry has embraced technological advancements, such as digital printing and augmented reality, to stay competitive and deliver innovative solutions. By continually adapting to evolving trends and embracing sustainability, commercial print can forge a promising future, offering businesses a compelling and effective marketing channel that is available to anyone who needs, 24/7, 365 thus giving commercial print the power to remain relative for now and the foreseeable future.

<h2>The Future of Commercial Print</h2>
<p>Commercial print, specifically the production of printed materials for business purposes, has long been a significant aspect of the advertising and marketing industry. It encompasses a wide range of products such as brochures, flyers, catalogues, direct mailers, and promotional materials. The advent of digital technologies and the rise of online marketing have undoubtedly impacted the print industry, but commercial print continues to hold relevance and adapt to changing times. In this article, we will explore the importance of commercial print and its trajectory in the current landscape in these uncertain times.</p>
<h3>The Tangible Advantage</h3>
<p>Commercial print remains important because it offers a tangible and tactile experience that digital media cannot replicate. In an increasingly digital world, print materials provide:</p>
<ul>
<li>A sense of credibility</li>
<li>Permanence</li>
<li>Authenticity</li>
</ul>
<p>Studies have shown that printed materials can leave a stronger impression on the human brain and evoke emotional responses more effectively compared to digital content. This physical presence can make a lasting impact on consumers, especially when combined with well-executed design and high-quality printing.</p>
<h3>Complementing Digital Marketing</h3>
<p>Commercial print serves as a valuable complement to digital marketing strategies. While online platforms provide extensive reach and targeting capabilities, print materials can help businesses achieve a multi-channel approach, strengthening brand awareness and engagement. By integrating print with digital campaigns, companies can:</p>
<ul>
<li>Enhance overall marketing effectiveness</li>
<li>Reach a broader audience</li>
<li>Drive traffic to websites</li>
<li>Boost social media engagement</li>
<li>Foster customer loyalty</li>
</ul>
<h3>Thriving Niche Markets</h3>
<p>Commercial print continues to thrive in specific niche markets. Industries that heavily rely on printed materials include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Real estate (brochures and flyers for properties)</li>
<li>Hospitality (menus, signage, promotional materials)</li>
<li>Healthcare</li>
<li>Retail</li>
</ul>
<p>These sectors recognise the unique value that print brings to their marketing efforts, thereby sustaining the demand for commercial print services.</p>
<h3>Digital Innovation in Print</h3>
<p>The commercial print industry has adapted to the digital age by incorporating innovative technologies. Advancements include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Digital printing enabling faster turnaround times</li>
<li>Personalized marketing materials</li>
<li>Cost-effective short print runs</li>
<li>Variable data printing for customization</li>
<li>Advanced finishing techniques (embossing, foil stamping, die-cutting)</li>
</ul>
<p>All of this now is in easy grasp with the access that <a href="/products/coreprint">Web-to-Print</a> providers any user 24/7! With the person ordering print now often NOT in a standard office location, the flexibility that online ordering offers, says Kelvin Bell Sales Director of global provider <a href="/about">Vpress</a>, meets the expectation of the customer head on. Online print is estimated at some 70% and only anticipated to grow over the 3-5yrs.</p>
<h3>Embracing Future Trends</h3>
<p>The true future of commercial print lies in its ability to embrace emerging trends and technologies:</p>
<h4>Sustainability Initiatives</h4>
<ul>
<li>Eco-friendly inks</li>
<li>Recycled paper</li>
<li>Energy-efficient printing methods</li>
<li>Reduced environmental impact</li>
<li>Alignment with sustainable business practices</li>
</ul>
<h4>Augmented Reality Integration</h4>
<ul>
<li>Transform static prints into interactive experiences</li>
<li>Bridge the gap between print and digital media</li>
<li>Enable access to additional information via smartphones</li>
<li>Provide 3D models and video content</li>
<li>Enhanced engagement and interactivity</li>
</ul>
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
<p>While the digital revolution has undoubtedly impacted the advertising and marketing landscape, commercial print remains relevant and vital. Its strengths include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tangible nature</li>
<li>Ability to complement digital marketing strategies</li>
<li>Continued demand in specific industries</li>
<li>Technological adaptations</li>
<li>Integration with emerging technologies</li>
</ul>
<p>The commercial print industry has embraced technological advancements, such as digital printing and augmented reality, to stay competitive and deliver innovative solutions. By continually adapting to evolving trends and embracing sustainability, commercial print can forge a promising future, offering businesses a compelling and effective marketing channel that is available to anyone who needs, 24/7, 365 thus giving commercial print the power to remain relative for now and the foreseeable future.</p>


The Future of Commercial Print

## The Age of eProcurement

Ordering online post pandemic has become part of our everyday lives. So much so that the range of what we procure from home entertainment to travel, groceries to energy is vast and continues to grow. But where is this journey of online purchasing going to take us, is this the demise of human interaction and loss of direct retail? The only thing for certain right now is that once people go online, the odds are hugely stacked in their favour to stay online versus going back to any high street or retail park (U.K. ONS (Office of National Statistics)). Let's be clear, buying online dramatically reduces the cost of getting any product to market and should be better for the environment as an added benefit.

So, the above identifies the current landscape of the B2C (Business to Consumer) markets but what about B2B (Business to Business), a huge part of buying and selling that has always made it's purchases in a very different way. The B2B market actually started to dramatically change the way it procured goods some time ago and before we developed our own personal dependency on eBay and Amazon, the corporate market already had a range of solutions to choose from. Systems like [SAP](https://www.sap.com/) / Oracle / CommerceOne and JD Edwards were early solutions that the corporate market used to be their singular platform, out of these the front runner was clearly Ariba who amassed a huge market very early on; indeed, there are case studies where successful use has been in excess of twenty years (British Airways, Morgan Stanley)!

### Enterprise Resource Planning Benefits

These ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems offer huge advantages to their users as they can facilitate procurement to be more proactive than reactive in the support of the business. This is done in several ways:

1. Providing total transparency of all products procured through their chosen application at every stage of the procurement stage from sourcing to delivery and payment (often suppliers get a better deal in quicker payment processes). This helps CPO's (Chief Purchasing Office) combat against maverick spend, employees buying outside of the corporate relationship often getting off brand and ordering non-competitive products from sometimes unverified suppliers.
2. The procurement function allows the mapping out of key suppliers so the number of companies engaged can, where applicable be reduced (B.A. reduced its number of suppliers from 14,000 to 2,500 with its £4Bn annual spend back in the early 00's). Of course, there are winners and losers with this but there is an intrinsic cost for every supplier engaged and for the supplier winning more work from a key customer can only be a good thing.
3. Many systems offer faster supply chain payment i.e., no invoice reconciliation and in some cases procured goods can be paid for in around four working days, enabling many suppliers to be more cashflow positive.
4. A final and more current benefit of eProcurement is that there is a central solution in place for all of an organisation's users to access 24/7, 365 from any location with a mapped-out process for those goods to be signed off and fulfilled, efficiency!

### The Evolution and Challenges

There is a downside however, as these eProcurement solutions have advanced and grown, the current number being offered is in the hundreds, but the market is still led by names such as SAP Ariba (SAP bought Ariba in 2012 for 4.3Bn), Coupa, Oracle, Jagger, Basware to name but a few. But their main failing or shortfall still remains the same, they cater for some 60%-80% of the product or category types that a corporate procures but they lack the ability to support complex, non-standard products that often come with a high number of variable attributes, these products are often left to suppliers to find a solution to bridge.

Marcoms has been a huge area where systems offered by [Vpress](/) have offered an affordable effective solution upstream that allows effected users to seamlessly "PunchOut" from one environment securely to create something complex or view a dynamic stock level that change externally. These products are not just limited to the marcoms function but encompass configurable products, services, resources and specification briefs to name but a few. An effective proven solution is available that compliments these huge eProcurement solutions for anything outside of the norm.

For a print supplier having a mechanism that can integrate into these systems is becoming essential to land contracts. That is why [Web-to-Print](/products/coreprint) suppliers such as Vpress are developing new ways to create seamless transitions from one environment to another giving their partners an advantage when trying to close deals.

These products are not just limited to the marcoms function but encompass all print products. This includes leaflets, brochures, business cards as well as Request for Quotes (RFQ) and job submission with variable pricing.

### The Future of eProcurement

As the eProcurement market continues to develop the need for localisation of language, mobile device access and better management of complex products within the supply chain continues, the "buying" element of any organisation is now an imperative function to allow an organization to be remain efficient, sustainable, responsible, and fundamentally operational.

<h2>The Age of eProcurement</h2>
<p>Ordering online post pandemic has become part of our everyday lives. So much so that the range of what we procure from home entertainment to travel, groceries to energy is vast and continues to grow. But where is this journey of online purchasing going to take us, is this the demise of human interaction and loss of direct retail? The only thing for certain right now is that once people go online, the odds are hugely stacked in their favour to stay online versus going back to any high street or retail park (U.K. ONS (Office of National Statistics)). Let's be clear, buying online dramatically reduces the cost of getting any product to market and should be better for the environment as an added benefit.</p>
<p>So, the above identifies the current landscape of the B2C (Business to Consumer) markets but what about B2B (Business to Business), a huge part of buying and selling that has always made it's purchases in a very different way. The B2B market actually started to dramatically change the way it procured goods some time ago and before we developed our own personal dependency on eBay and Amazon, the corporate market already had a range of solutions to choose from. Systems like <a href="https://www.sap.com/">SAP</a> / Oracle / CommerceOne and JD Edwards were early solutions that the corporate market used to be their singular platform, out of these the front runner was clearly Ariba who amassed a huge market very early on; indeed, there are case studies where successful use has been in excess of twenty years (British Airways, Morgan Stanley)!</p>
<h3>Enterprise Resource Planning Benefits</h3>
<p>These ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems offer huge advantages to their users as they can facilitate procurement to be more proactive than reactive in the support of the business. This is done in several ways:</p>
<ol>
<li>Providing total transparency of all products procured through their chosen application at every stage of the procurement stage from sourcing to delivery and payment (often suppliers get a better deal in quicker payment processes). This helps CPO's (Chief Purchasing Office) combat against maverick spend, employees buying outside of the corporate relationship often getting off brand and ordering non-competitive products from sometimes unverified suppliers.</li>
<li>The procurement function allows the mapping out of key suppliers so the number of companies engaged can, where applicable be reduced (B.A. reduced its number of suppliers from 14,000 to 2,500 with its £4Bn annual spend back in the early 00's). Of course, there are winners and losers with this but there is an intrinsic cost for every supplier engaged and for the supplier winning more work from a key customer can only be a good thing.</li>
<li>Many systems offer faster supply chain payment i.e., no invoice reconciliation and in some cases procured goods can be paid for in around four working days, enabling many suppliers to be more cashflow positive.</li>
<li>A final and more current benefit of eProcurement is that there is a central solution in place for all of an organisation's users to access 24/7, 365 from any location with a mapped-out process for those goods to be signed off and fulfilled, efficiency!</li>
</ol>
<h3>The Evolution and Challenges</h3>
<p>There is a downside however, as these eProcurement solutions have advanced and grown, the current number being offered is in the hundreds, but the market is still led by names such as SAP Ariba (SAP bought Ariba in 2012 for 4.3Bn), Coupa, Oracle, Jagger, Basware to name but a few. But their main failing or shortfall still remains the same, they cater for some 60%-80% of the product or category types that a corporate procures but they lack the ability to support complex, non-standard products that often come with a high number of variable attributes, these products are often left to suppliers to find a solution to bridge.</p>
<p>Marcoms has been a huge area where systems offered by <a href="/">Vpress</a> have offered an affordable effective solution upstream that allows effected users to seamlessly &quot;PunchOut&quot; from one environment securely to create something complex or view a dynamic stock level that change externally. These products are not just limited to the marcoms function but encompass configurable products, services, resources and specification briefs to name but a few. An effective proven solution is available that compliments these huge eProcurement solutions for anything outside of the norm.</p>
<p>For a print supplier having a mechanism that can integrate into these systems is becoming essential to land contracts. That is why <a href="/products/coreprint">Web-to-Print</a> suppliers such as Vpress are developing new ways to create seamless transitions from one environment to another giving their partners an advantage when trying to close deals.</p>
<p>These products are not just limited to the marcoms function but encompass all print products. This includes leaflets, brochures, business cards as well as Request for Quotes (RFQ) and job submission with variable pricing.</p>
<h3>The Future of eProcurement</h3>
<p>As the eProcurement market continues to develop the need for localisation of language, mobile device access and better management of complex products within the supply chain continues, the &quot;buying&quot; element of any organisation is now an imperative function to allow an organization to be remain efficient, sustainable, responsible, and fundamentally operational.</p>


The Age of eProcurement

## Why Workflow Matters

There is nothing better than doing the same task over and over again by hand, is there? You know for certain it is done, the way you want it to be done and you don't have to rely on anyone else to mess up your way of doing things, you know your way is best & is the way it should be done, each time, every time. This is great if you're a florist who offers that special service or a chef who knows the ripeness of his ingredients, it makes sense for their businesses doesn't it. But for print, is it the same? Hell no! By doing that same task again & again you are killing your business in this age, you are stopping your business from growing & you are only making yourself feel needed – **there is another way!**

Getting a job into production is nothing but a collection of jobs or tasks, if one of those tasks can be joined up so it complements the other and so one, this is basic workflow and most of us are either to stuck in our ways to change or feel too insecure to embrace change until it is forced upon them. Sadly, this is the truth, letting go of an old way of doing things is like losing a well-worn pair of jeans, there simply is no replacement.

### The 'New Way' Forward

So, let's talk about that **'new way'** forward. There is not one "new way" for all but let us look at the basics & trust me you already know them, but it takes someone to annoyingly point them out for you to sit up! Imagine if "print" was made up of three simple tasks (yes, I am super oversimplifying here but go with me here):

1. ***A job is booked***
2. ***The job is printed***
3. ***The job is finished & dispatched***

### Breaking Down the Numbers

Booking a job in & understanding it takes say 5 minutes, getting the job ready for print after checks takes another 5 minutes to get ready to press the magic print button (any process will do). Once finished & dispatched, we just need to complete the job to invoice, go with me and say it takes 2 minutes for a job & an invoice to be flying out the door allowing you move on the next.

So, each & every job follows this made-up process, trust me I love print & am not demeaning it in anyway, just making a point here. We are looking at 5+5+2 which as we all knew equates to 12 minutes, or 5 jobs an hour collectively for any team, on an eight hour shift we are doing 40 jobs, actually we are good at what we do so let's say 50 jobs a day, 250 a week, 1,000 a month = brilliant. Each job is 150 with 25% margin – We are making 37,500 a month, we might not be growing but the wolves are not at the proverbial door.

### The Power of Automation

But we don't just want to maintain our business! How do we grow, add staff, faster presses, we are already going full speed? What if we could have the new jobs coming in linking to dispatch & accounting while sending the artwork direct to press in an orderly queue, optimised with no need for checking saving 4 mins on the new job, 4 mins on the checking and 1 min on the finishing & dispatch.

So, 9 minutes on a 12-minute job, or 75% or ¼ of the time it was, we can now **increase our capacity by 75%** / x3 more jobs equating to x3 more profit which as you can figure out is 150,000 profit each month, boom we are growing! This is a super basic workflow example, as workflow is a journey with no end but constant efficiency reviews.

### The Bottom Line

Workflow directly equals profit, that is why it matters so much to print production & the more complex the process the more important that workflow & its automation is, not to lose people but get those people to be doing more jobs that effect & support the business helping it to grow. Think about it, if you are paying someone 15,000 a year to manage a process that could be automated for 5,000, then your business could reduce costs and improve efficient.

Now, all of this is great but will being online actually bring in more orders? Can workflow effect that? **It certainly can as the world has moved online** – check out the ONS comment on how people who move online, don't go back to doing ordering the way they did but as a printer you can tap into this growing market. It is estimated that 50-65% of print is now online & with some good marketing & a Web-to-Print solution that links to your automation you can drive those profits in the right direction as you scale up your business, moving online with both B2B to keep those repeating jobs & B2C to find new ones. Help is out there; you just have to take the first step & embrace change!

<h2>Why Workflow Matters</h2>
<p>There is nothing better than doing the same task over and over again by hand, is there? You know for certain it is done, the way you want it to be done and you don't have to rely on anyone else to mess up your way of doing things, you know your way is best &amp; is the way it should be done, each time, every time. This is great if you're a florist who offers that special service or a chef who knows the ripeness of his ingredients, it makes sense for their businesses doesn't it. But for print, is it the same? Hell no! By doing that same task again &amp; again you are killing your business in this age, you are stopping your business from growing &amp; you are only making yourself feel needed – <strong>there is another way!</strong></p>
<p>Getting a job into production is nothing but a collection of jobs or tasks, if one of those tasks can be joined up so it complements the other and so one, this is basic workflow and most of us are either to stuck in our ways to change or feel too insecure to embrace change until it is forced upon them. Sadly, this is the truth, letting go of an old way of doing things is like losing a well-worn pair of jeans, there simply is no replacement.</p>
<h3>The 'New Way' Forward</h3>
<p>So, let's talk about that <strong>'new way'</strong> forward. There is not one &quot;new way&quot; for all but let us look at the basics &amp; trust me you already know them, but it takes someone to annoyingly point them out for you to sit up! Imagine if &quot;print&quot; was made up of three simple tasks (yes, I am super oversimplifying here but go with me here):</p>
<ol>
<li><em><strong>A job is booked</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>The job is printed</strong></em></li>
<li><em><strong>The job is finished &amp; dispatched</strong></em></li>
</ol>
<h3>Breaking Down the Numbers</h3>
<p>Booking a job in &amp; understanding it takes say 5 minutes, getting the job ready for print after checks takes another 5 minutes to get ready to press the magic print button (any process will do). Once finished &amp; dispatched, we just need to complete the job to invoice, go with me and say it takes 2 minutes for a job &amp; an invoice to be flying out the door allowing you move on the next.</p>
<p>So, each &amp; every job follows this made-up process, trust me I love print &amp; am not demeaning it in anyway, just making a point here. We are looking at 5+5+2 which as we all knew equates to 12 minutes, or 5 jobs an hour collectively for any team, on an eight hour shift we are doing 40 jobs, actually we are good at what we do so let's say 50 jobs a day, 250 a week, 1,000 a month = brilliant. Each job is 150 with 25% margin – We are making 37,500 a month, we might not be growing but the wolves are not at the proverbial door.</p>
<h3>The Power of Automation</h3>
<p>But we don't just want to maintain our business! How do we grow, add staff, faster presses, we are already going full speed? What if we could have the new jobs coming in linking to dispatch &amp; accounting while sending the artwork direct to press in an orderly queue, optimised with no need for checking saving 4 mins on the new job, 4 mins on the checking and 1 min on the finishing &amp; dispatch.</p>
<p>So, 9 minutes on a 12-minute job, or 75% or ¼ of the time it was, we can now <strong>increase our capacity by 75%</strong> / x3 more jobs equating to x3 more profit which as you can figure out is 150,000 profit each month, boom we are growing! This is a super basic workflow example, as workflow is a journey with no end but constant efficiency reviews.</p>
<h3>The Bottom Line</h3>
<p>Workflow directly equals profit, that is why it matters so much to print production &amp; the more complex the process the more important that workflow &amp; its automation is, not to lose people but get those people to be doing more jobs that effect &amp; support the business helping it to grow. Think about it, if you are paying someone 15,000 a year to manage a process that could be automated for 5,000, then your business could reduce costs and improve efficient.</p>
<p>Now, all of this is great but will being online actually bring in more orders? Can workflow effect that? <strong>It certainly can as the world has moved online</strong> – check out the ONS comment on how people who move online, don't go back to doing ordering the way they did but as a printer you can tap into this growing market. It is estimated that 50-65% of print is now online &amp; with some good marketing &amp; a Web-to-Print solution that links to your automation you can drive those profits in the right direction as you scale up your business, moving online with both B2B to keep those repeating jobs &amp; B2C to find new ones. Help is out there; you just have to take the first step &amp; embrace change!</p>


Why Workflow Matters

## Which is Cheaper: To Attract a New Customer or to Keep an Existing One?

The difference between buying goods or service from a new provider is very different to that of buying from a provider we know and trust. As a first-time buyer we do what we can to ensure we are buying what we need in the hope that, if needed, the provider will have a post sales team that will be able to support us. However, if we have a negative experience post sale, this dramatically effects our willingness to buy again or continue with the goods or service. We are not going to repeatedly pay for a negative experience are we!

### The Online Customer Experience

As you move online, where you may buy goods or services repeatedly from the single supplier the customer experience (CX) is even more paramount. The online or SaaS (Software as a Service) model relies on that customer being happy with their engagement both at point of purchase AND ongoing, so a shiny salesperson is simply not enough, he/she needs support behind the scenes. In today's market in is imperative to offer exceptional "customer" support as we are faced with so many choices in such a competitive market, we need to know we can win the client and keep the client long term. It's never been more important to keep the customer happy!

### The Numbers Don't Lie

This has never been more so than now in the semi-post pandemic, challenging supply chain environment, where we even have a war in Europe going on the background (Slava Ukraini). So, what is cheaper to win a new customer or to keep an existing one? The primary focus of most businesses is to win new clients in order to grow but is this the best way to support that growth.

Here are some revealing statistics:

* It costs x7 times more to win a new customer than to sell to an existing one
* 44% of companies focus on customer acquisition vs only 16% on retention
* 65% of a company's business comes from existing customers
* A loyal and happy customer spends 67% more than new ones

Surely this is proof that we need to focus as much if not more on keeping the customers we have and growing them as opposed to constantly looking for new ones. There is an old saying that "customers are hard won but easily lost", never has this been truer than in this open and strongly competitive market.

### The Power of Good Customer Service

So how can you keep customers that generate on average 65% of your revenue? The answer starts at good customer service, having the right people with the right knowledge and most important of all the right approach to dealing with your customers. A good attitude goes a long way, not everyone can sound confident, positive and be helpful to customers who may be at the more challenging end of personal frustration! If you have the right people in support to help your customers then you are winning by a mile already, as these people will ensure your customers are happier and more confident with your products and services.

### The Vpress Approach

So in this desperate fight to win new business, maybe we should spend a little more time looking at what business we have and just how happy those customers are with what we do, this very much does not mean just a survey although that could be a good start. At Vpress the client engagement starts with great Account Managers and a great support team that guide customers through the complexities of our technology and always offer a helping hand when needed.

With constant customer communication we know where our customers are and what they need form us to grow and prosper in this challenging market. While we always are thankful for our customers support, as a business we know we have first class team members that help retain our client even when times are challenging. For Vpress a new customer is just the start of a journey with great support on offer.

*This is dedicated to the Vpress support team.*

<h2>Which is Cheaper: To Attract a New Customer or to Keep an Existing One?</h2>
<p>The difference between buying goods or service from a new provider is very different to that of buying from a provider we know and trust. As a first-time buyer we do what we can to ensure we are buying what we need in the hope that, if needed, the provider will have a post sales team that will be able to support us. However, if we have a negative experience post sale, this dramatically effects our willingness to buy again or continue with the goods or service. We are not going to repeatedly pay for a negative experience are we!</p>
<h3>The Online Customer Experience</h3>
<p>As you move online, where you may buy goods or services repeatedly from the single supplier the customer experience (CX) is even more paramount. The online or SaaS (Software as a Service) model relies on that customer being happy with their engagement both at point of purchase AND ongoing, so a shiny salesperson is simply not enough, he/she needs support behind the scenes. In today's market in is imperative to offer exceptional &quot;customer&quot; support as we are faced with so many choices in such a competitive market, we need to know we can win the client and keep the client long term. It's never been more important to keep the customer happy!</p>
<h3>The Numbers Don't Lie</h3>
<p>This has never been more so than now in the semi-post pandemic, challenging supply chain environment, where we even have a war in Europe going on the background (Slava Ukraini). So, what is cheaper to win a new customer or to keep an existing one? The primary focus of most businesses is to win new clients in order to grow but is this the best way to support that growth.</p>
<p>Here are some revealing statistics:</p>
<ul>
<li>It costs x7 times more to win a new customer than to sell to an existing one</li>
<li>44% of companies focus on customer acquisition vs only 16% on retention</li>
<li>65% of a company's business comes from existing customers</li>
<li>A loyal and happy customer spends 67% more than new ones</li>
</ul>
<p>Surely this is proof that we need to focus as much if not more on keeping the customers we have and growing them as opposed to constantly looking for new ones. There is an old saying that &quot;customers are hard won but easily lost&quot;, never has this been truer than in this open and strongly competitive market.</p>
<h3>The Power of Good Customer Service</h3>
<p>So how can you keep customers that generate on average 65% of your revenue? The answer starts at good customer service, having the right people with the right knowledge and most important of all the right approach to dealing with your customers. A good attitude goes a long way, not everyone can sound confident, positive and be helpful to customers who may be at the more challenging end of personal frustration! If you have the right people in support to help your customers then you are winning by a mile already, as these people will ensure your customers are happier and more confident with your products and services.</p>
<h3>The Vpress Approach</h3>
<p>So in this desperate fight to win new business, maybe we should spend a little more time looking at what business we have and just how happy those customers are with what we do, this very much does not mean just a survey although that could be a good start. At Vpress the client engagement starts with great Account Managers and a great support team that guide customers through the complexities of our technology and always offer a helping hand when needed.</p>
<p>With constant customer communication we know where our customers are and what they need form us to grow and prosper in this challenging market. While we always are thankful for our customers support, as a business we know we have first class team members that help retain our client even when times are challenging. For Vpress a new customer is just the start of a journey with great support on offer.</p>
<p><em>This is dedicated to the Vpress support team.</em></p>


Which is Cheaper: To Attract a New Customer or to Keep an Existing One?

## Friends or Just Colleagues

Can you have friends at work or are they just colleagues? I wonder if your first answer to the question is different from the one once you have read this article.

Surely our "friends" all come from our personal life but when you invest so much time in work (a large majority of your life), your career, your environment why would you not bond & connect with people in varying circumstances and become friends. So, in essence friends can come from all areas, especially work.

### Building Relationships in the Print Industry

I have to say, after 20yrs+ of working in the Print Industry I count myself to be very lucky to call some of the people (both work colleagues and customers) my friends. The Print Industry is a great international mix of people from all different backgrounds and you seem to gravitate to the people you get on with and steer clear from the ones that are more "challenging". But all in all, there are some great characters who are always willing to help others often before even themselves.

It makes perfect sense when you think about it, if you spend a lot of time with people and sometimes this period is under great pressure then you can build lasting bonds. More so when in our industry at this time we must help one another for a whole multitude of reasons that are way beyond our control. And let's face it, over the last 75 years there has never been a time offering so much uncertainty with the combination of a global pandemic and European war.

### Balancing Friendship and Business

So, how do you combine friendship and sales? The answer is really quite simple you have to know who you are and work on what your proposition really is and not you trying to be desperate to sell to them – no one actually likes anyone who always goes into "sales mode" and launches into the same pitch you give everyone else, people buy from people and how you define what you do and how good your service is in the business environment.

So, in selling whatever it is just be yourself and most of all be honest, a sale is not worth losing a friendship for as the latter bring so much more and will account for much more than just pounds and pennies.

### The New Normal of Relationships

I mentioned before about this challenging environment, we now engage with people we have not and may never meet in person. Although we have not actually met them or spend any considerable time with them, we may be engaged with them every day online in a business meeting, a couple of times now as we have started get back out there, I have thought to myself, I thought they would be taller!

Nevertheless the pandemic has showed we can build a good relationship with someone without having to be face-to-face, we don't need to be in someone's company, we just prefer to be!

### Looking Forward

As we open up and strive to be back to what our normality was, I think we will still rely on the relationships we have and continue to build upon. Everyone needs some help from time to time and I for one am happy to rely upon my network who never let me down in providing a solution.

<h2>Friends or Just Colleagues</h2>
<p>Can you have friends at work or are they just colleagues? I wonder if your first answer to the question is different from the one once you have read this article.</p>
<p>Surely our &quot;friends&quot; all come from our personal life but when you invest so much time in work (a large majority of your life), your career, your environment why would you not bond &amp; connect with people in varying circumstances and become friends. So, in essence friends can come from all areas, especially work.</p>
<h3>Building Relationships in the Print Industry</h3>
<p>I have to say, after 20yrs+ of working in the Print Industry I count myself to be very lucky to call some of the people (both work colleagues and customers) my friends. The Print Industry is a great international mix of people from all different backgrounds and you seem to gravitate to the people you get on with and steer clear from the ones that are more &quot;challenging&quot;. But all in all, there are some great characters who are always willing to help others often before even themselves.</p>
<p>It makes perfect sense when you think about it, if you spend a lot of time with people and sometimes this period is under great pressure then you can build lasting bonds. More so when in our industry at this time we must help one another for a whole multitude of reasons that are way beyond our control. And let's face it, over the last 75 years there has never been a time offering so much uncertainty with the combination of a global pandemic and European war.</p>
<h3>Balancing Friendship and Business</h3>
<p>So, how do you combine friendship and sales? The answer is really quite simple you have to know who you are and work on what your proposition really is and not you trying to be desperate to sell to them – no one actually likes anyone who always goes into &quot;sales mode&quot; and launches into the same pitch you give everyone else, people buy from people and how you define what you do and how good your service is in the business environment.</p>
<p>So, in selling whatever it is just be yourself and most of all be honest, a sale is not worth losing a friendship for as the latter bring so much more and will account for much more than just pounds and pennies.</p>
<h3>The New Normal of Relationships</h3>
<p>I mentioned before about this challenging environment, we now engage with people we have not and may never meet in person. Although we have not actually met them or spend any considerable time with them, we may be engaged with them every day online in a business meeting, a couple of times now as we have started get back out there, I have thought to myself, I thought they would be taller!</p>
<p>Nevertheless the pandemic has showed we can build a good relationship with someone without having to be face-to-face, we don't need to be in someone's company, we just prefer to be!</p>
<h3>Looking Forward</h3>
<p>As we open up and strive to be back to what our normality was, I think we will still rely on the relationships we have and continue to build upon. Everyone needs some help from time to time and I for one am happy to rely upon my network who never let me down in providing a solution.</p>


Friends or Just Colleagues

## Data Security for Print

Ok, how can you have data security for something that is going to be printed and most likely sent out to everyone/anyone? The truth is it is not about what is printed for the most part but rather the Users data as they order that piece of print and thereafter and how/where that data is then stored. So, while we may just need to dip into a website to order some must have product, we are already very used to entering our most valuable details in order to achieve our goal (name/address/bank details maybe even DoB). Most of us never even know where that data is being stored or who has access to it.

### The Evolution of Security Measures

For decades now rather annoying IT people have been telling us to change our passwords, recent formats often require numbers and special characters, just to make it even harder for us to remember, then they force to us do this periodically in order to stop us having the same password for all our accounts and devices – surely this is just to make our lives harder and worse. Actually no, despite online fraud being a regular thing in the news these days most of us believe it will never happen to us, they are (and we know this) genuinely trying to protect us and the business they support.

Twenty years ago it was all about your phone/fax number, if it got out then you would be bombarded with texts and who did not arrive into an office with no fax paper due to all the meaningless adverts sent through during the night. Since then it has been email junk with more and more dodgy links to nasty sites and .exe links that will only do harm to your network security.

### Modern Security Challenges

The real problem though is that as our technology progresses at an ever-increasing rate, so has the methods used by unscrupulous people to steal our details or worse, in using our simple mistake as an access point to hold our businesses to ransom (this happens a lot more than you may realise). It is in the victim's interest for you to never hear about this should it happen.

### Print Industry Security Considerations

So print, how do these security issues come across to our industry? As always if we want to print something for general consumption, then there is nothing to worry about in regard to the actual printed matter as it is going out into the world. However, if it is a DM (Direct Mail) campaign or some internal targeted work, then we need to be sure that only the identified recipients are going to see it. We can either:

1. Painstakingly and rather costly create each job/version ourselves
2. Encrypt it and send to a responsible printer manually
3. Utilize the right online platform to facilitate this, saving time, cost and increasing accuracy/security

### The Digital Transformation

It is estimated that 60-70% of print is now online both B2B (most effected by online change with ERP/CRM applications) and B2C, as the pandemic has driven Digital Transformation to what is now the 'New Normal' after long periods of being locked down but expected to work remotely. In going online it meets our fundamental requirement "convenience" - we can order what we want, when we want as many are not working normal hours or going into the office.

### Data Storage and GDPR

By going to a website or into a Web-to-Print portal to support that much desired convenience your details are stored, and while not all of those details can do harm, some can. But also you have a right to ensure you know what is happening to those details (your data) and that they are being managed in a responsible way, enter GDPR. While GDPR maybe a pain, it ultimately is a good thing for us all giving us some much needed protection and reassurances.

### Where is Your Data Stored?

Killer question for any print provider or print customer – where is that data stored? Knowing the Web-to-Print market well and the solutions available here in Europe, data is typically stored in:

* Eastern Europe (Moldova/Ukraine (Slava Ukraine)/Belarus)
* Asia (India/Pakistan)
* Europe (UK under regulated data security, as with Vpress)

This is not so much to bang the Vpress drum here but to highlight that it as is everyone's right know WHERE that data is stored and companies have the responsibility of securing this data and making sure there are no privacy breaches.

For Vpress users all the data is stored in a UK based server regulated under 'The Data Protection Act 2018'. Where is your data stored?

For twenty years Vpress have been providing cutting edge solutions to the print market globally. Being U.K. based it provided us with having in-depth knowledge of our industry and the benefits that automation and online offer in order to make print a sustainable and available medium to interact with.

<h2>Data Security for Print</h2>
<p>Ok, how can you have data security for something that is going to be printed and most likely sent out to everyone/anyone? The truth is it is not about what is printed for the most part but rather the Users data as they order that piece of print and thereafter and how/where that data is then stored. So, while we may just need to dip into a website to order some must have product, we are already very used to entering our most valuable details in order to achieve our goal (name/address/bank details maybe even DoB). Most of us never even know where that data is being stored or who has access to it.</p>
<h3>The Evolution of Security Measures</h3>
<p>For decades now rather annoying IT people have been telling us to change our passwords, recent formats often require numbers and special characters, just to make it even harder for us to remember, then they force to us do this periodically in order to stop us having the same password for all our accounts and devices – surely this is just to make our lives harder and worse. Actually no, despite online fraud being a regular thing in the news these days most of us believe it will never happen to us, they are (and we know this) genuinely trying to protect us and the business they support.</p>
<p>Twenty years ago it was all about your phone/fax number, if it got out then you would be bombarded with texts and who did not arrive into an office with no fax paper due to all the meaningless adverts sent through during the night. Since then it has been email junk with more and more dodgy links to nasty sites and .exe links that will only do harm to your network security.</p>
<h3>Modern Security Challenges</h3>
<p>The real problem though is that as our technology progresses at an ever-increasing rate, so has the methods used by unscrupulous people to steal our details or worse, in using our simple mistake as an access point to hold our businesses to ransom (this happens a lot more than you may realise). It is in the victim's interest for you to never hear about this should it happen.</p>
<h3>Print Industry Security Considerations</h3>
<p>So print, how do these security issues come across to our industry? As always if we want to print something for general consumption, then there is nothing to worry about in regard to the actual printed matter as it is going out into the world. However, if it is a DM (Direct Mail) campaign or some internal targeted work, then we need to be sure that only the identified recipients are going to see it. We can either:</p>
<ol>
<li>Painstakingly and rather costly create each job/version ourselves</li>
<li>Encrypt it and send to a responsible printer manually</li>
<li>Utilize the right online platform to facilitate this, saving time, cost and increasing accuracy/security</li>
</ol>
<h3>The Digital Transformation</h3>
<p>It is estimated that 60-70% of print is now online both B2B (most effected by online change with ERP/CRM applications) and B2C, as the pandemic has driven Digital Transformation to what is now the 'New Normal' after long periods of being locked down but expected to work remotely. In going online it meets our fundamental requirement &quot;convenience&quot; - we can order what we want, when we want as many are not working normal hours or going into the office.</p>
<h3>Data Storage and GDPR</h3>
<p>By going to a website or into a Web-to-Print portal to support that much desired convenience your details are stored, and while not all of those details can do harm, some can. But also you have a right to ensure you know what is happening to those details (your data) and that they are being managed in a responsible way, enter GDPR. While GDPR maybe a pain, it ultimately is a good thing for us all giving us some much needed protection and reassurances.</p>
<h3>Where is Your Data Stored?</h3>
<p>Killer question for any print provider or print customer – where is that data stored? Knowing the Web-to-Print market well and the solutions available here in Europe, data is typically stored in:</p>
<ul>
<li>Eastern Europe (Moldova/Ukraine (Slava Ukraine)/Belarus)</li>
<li>Asia (India/Pakistan)</li>
<li>Europe (UK under regulated data security, as with Vpress)</li>
</ul>
<p>This is not so much to bang the Vpress drum here but to highlight that it as is everyone's right know WHERE that data is stored and companies have the responsibility of securing this data and making sure there are no privacy breaches.</p>
<p>For Vpress users all the data is stored in a UK based server regulated under 'The Data Protection Act 2018'. Where is your data stored?</p>
<p>For twenty years Vpress have been providing cutting edge solutions to the print market globally. Being U.K. based it provided us with having in-depth knowledge of our industry and the benefits that automation and online offer in order to make print a sustainable and available medium to interact with.</p>


Data Security for Print

## What Happened to the Business Card?

Much has been mentioned since we entered this dreadful pandemic about the future of one of the most loved printed items, the business card. Many of us have them, we remember fondly our first set (I still cherish some of mine) and eagerly awaited their arrival as a symbol of our accomplishment and importance as our career started to progress. Not only were they but they were a badge of what we had achieved to display to one and all, a symbol of status! Arguably the most printed item we all collected, I for one still have business cards passed to me from years ago from low end early digital shame to multi-level die stamped crafted examples that are art in themselves.

### A bit of history

The business card was invented in 15th century China arriving in Europe during the 17th century being used as mini advertisements for merchants wishing to advertise their businesses way before shops were a common thing in a high street. Since then, they have been depicted in a multitude of movies where they have been everything from a calling card of the leading character to the coveted status symbol of a madman. Who has not seen the business card scene in "American Psycho"! Before the mobile, the business card was the connector to networking and business acquisition for any aspiring sales guy. Hopefully that is the only connection between print sales and established psychopaths!

### Current view of the market

So, have we stopped printing them? Yes, for the most part we have as we are in an environment where we simply cannot risk the passing of a virus from one person to another. According to the BBC & healthline.com while Covid-19 can only last up to 24hrs on cardboard it can potentially last up to four days on some types of paper (May 2020). So why would we so willingly open ourselves up to the risk of infection. Of course, new developments such as the use of antimicrobial coatings may further reduce what is perceived as a relatively low chance of any infection (WHO).

Although any risk perceived is low, we still do not wish to take that risk, especially as we are still not gathering as we once did for trade shows and networking. But will their usage recover? Of course they will, there is no doubt about that, although how far away that is no one knows, nearly two years into the pandemic and we have no sign of full recovery just yet but live in fear of further lockdowns. But we as humans are creatures of habit and just as we long to socialise as we once did, we will seek to engage more so then ever in the ways that are familiar to us, especially to do business.

### What are the benefits?

While we are only too aware of the obvious uses of the business card, not everyone appreciates the benefits that are not so obvious. They don't run out of battery, allowing the exchange of details at a trade show or conference. They serve as a reminder the morning after an evening of "networking" of whom we engaged if for some blind reason we cannot recall, even if only a number and name is scribbled on the back of your own (provided there is no matt lamination restriction!). They also provide instant recall of those we know who can help us achieve what we wish by the information they display They are great brand ambassadors, often displaying our brand exactly as it should be, showing off great fonts, colours and print processes that can mirror the image we wish to portray of our brand. It's a bit harder to bring up a website into a conversation even in our technological time. They can also tell you a lot about the person, how many of us have judged poor printed business cards thinking if only the holder spent a little more it could portray so much more of that person and/or business. Yes, there remains business card snobbery!

So, I think not and really hope not as they are a physical example of any business and key for real social networking, the kind that is not done on a zoom call. They are a badge of who we are and what we do, they show how much we think our company is worth by the effort and cost we put into them. They serve as a reminder that we still know someone who can at a company who does. Although we won't use them in the quantities we used to, they will surely be around for a long time as people pass them from one to another to help one or both parties. Nothing else we carry, unless we wear a uniform that shows who we are or what our importance is within the business community, we can have a cool brand, code and a nice mobile but it is the business card that shows where we are!

<h2>What Happened to the Business Card?</h2>
<p>Much has been mentioned since we entered this dreadful pandemic about the future of one of the most loved printed items, the business card. Many of us have them, we remember fondly our first set (I still cherish some of mine) and eagerly awaited their arrival as a symbol of our accomplishment and importance as our career started to progress. Not only were they but they were a badge of what we had achieved to display to one and all, a symbol of status! Arguably the most printed item we all collected, I for one still have business cards passed to me from years ago from low end early digital shame to multi-level die stamped crafted examples that are art in themselves.</p>
<h3>A bit of history</h3>
<p>The business card was invented in 15th century China arriving in Europe during the 17th century being used as mini advertisements for merchants wishing to advertise their businesses way before shops were a common thing in a high street. Since then, they have been depicted in a multitude of movies where they have been everything from a calling card of the leading character to the coveted status symbol of a madman. Who has not seen the business card scene in &quot;American Psycho&quot;! Before the mobile, the business card was the connector to networking and business acquisition for any aspiring sales guy. Hopefully that is the only connection between print sales and established psychopaths!</p>
<h3>Current view of the market</h3>
<p>So, have we stopped printing them? Yes, for the most part we have as we are in an environment where we simply cannot risk the passing of a virus from one person to another. According to the BBC &amp; healthline.com while Covid-19 can only last up to 24hrs on cardboard it can potentially last up to four days on some types of paper (May 2020). So why would we so willingly open ourselves up to the risk of infection. Of course, new developments such as the use of antimicrobial coatings may further reduce what is perceived as a relatively low chance of any infection (WHO).</p>
<p>Although any risk perceived is low, we still do not wish to take that risk, especially as we are still not gathering as we once did for trade shows and networking. But will their usage recover? Of course they will, there is no doubt about that, although how far away that is no one knows, nearly two years into the pandemic and we have no sign of full recovery just yet but live in fear of further lockdowns. But we as humans are creatures of habit and just as we long to socialise as we once did, we will seek to engage more so then ever in the ways that are familiar to us, especially to do business.</p>
<h3>What are the benefits?</h3>
<p>While we are only too aware of the obvious uses of the business card, not everyone appreciates the benefits that are not so obvious. They don't run out of battery, allowing the exchange of details at a trade show or conference. They serve as a reminder the morning after an evening of &quot;networking&quot; of whom we engaged if for some blind reason we cannot recall, even if only a number and name is scribbled on the back of your own (provided there is no matt lamination restriction!). They also provide instant recall of those we know who can help us achieve what we wish by the information they display They are great brand ambassadors, often displaying our brand exactly as it should be, showing off great fonts, colours and print processes that can mirror the image we wish to portray of our brand. It's a bit harder to bring up a website into a conversation even in our technological time. They can also tell you a lot about the person, how many of us have judged poor printed business cards thinking if only the holder spent a little more it could portray so much more of that person and/or business. Yes, there remains business card snobbery!</p>
<p>So, I think not and really hope not as they are a physical example of any business and key for real social networking, the kind that is not done on a zoom call. They are a badge of who we are and what we do, they show how much we think our company is worth by the effort and cost we put into them. They serve as a reminder that we still know someone who can at a company who does. Although we won't use them in the quantities we used to, they will surely be around for a long time as people pass them from one to another to help one or both parties. Nothing else we carry, unless we wear a uniform that shows who we are or what our importance is within the business community, we can have a cool brand, code and a nice mobile but it is the business card that shows where we are!</p>


What Happened to the Business Card?

## Web-to-Print from Vpress Turbocharges Route 1 Print's Growth Engine

[Route 1 Print's](https://www.route1print.co.uk/) long-term strategy is to harness cutting-edge technology so it can deliver new levels of value to its trade-print customers.

Indeed, in an increasingly competitive industry, printers need to find a way to get noticed for all the right reasons. Print quality has never been higher, turnaround times have never been faster, and prices have never been cheaper. So, what can they do differently?

Part of the answer that Route 1 Print is delivering to its customers is the partnership it has with Vpress.

"It has allowed us to significantly streamline integrated accounts using Vpress technology. Not only that, it has helped us strengthen customer service and ultimately provided a tool for our clients to win contracts they wouldn't have done otherwise –– specifically through the creation of bespoke ordering portals," explains Sarah Kilcoyne-Guilliam, Head of Sales and Integration at Route 1 Print.

Sarah adds: "We want to be an engine of growth for our customers and Vpress's Coreprint Web-to-Print platform is helping us turbo charge that ambition."

Sarah also confirmed the usage of Vpress technology has led to a significant increase in streamlining when it comes to ordering process for Route 1 Print.

### Significant Time Savings

A key example is that it saves more than 5 minutes for every order directed through [Coreprint](/products/coreprint) – the advanced Web-to-Print system from Vpress – versus processing it in a traditional way.

This means when processing an average of 500 jobs through the system, Route 1 Print can eliminate over 40 hours of laborious and repetitive work. But that is not the only critical efficiency saving, as with the Coreprint system, Route 1 Print can support its account managers with automated processing and status reporting for its customers.

### A Strong Partnership

The partnership between the two organisations began in 2017 and Vpress was initially brought in to support Bluetree Group's Instantprint brand. Since then, Route 1 Print – part of the Bluetree Group – has grown exponentially to be one of the largest trade printers in the UK and a key surgical mask manufacturer for the NHS.

Vpress meanwhile has expanded internationally and helped support its customers weather a seismic and rapid transition to e-commerce models due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Sarah continues: "Route 1 Print is trade only, and for a segment of our clients, an integrated solution offers a big saving in transactional costs. Coreprint – Web-to-Print system and its flexibility is a really good fit for these organisations, and it means their customers can order directly through it."

Many of Route 1 Print's customer's use its Vpress-based systems –– with a common denominator being that its extensive integration features mean that manual order processing becomes a thing of a past and can plug directly into Route 1 Print's workflow.

"When integrations became a key focus point for Bluetree Group, Vpress was a key ally, as it assisted us in supporting our customers with very little technical knowledge. It helped to get them up and running online quickly and professionally," continues Sarah.

Sarah went on to explain that when customers start ordering regularly through their Vpress-backed system, and find how easy it is to use, they funnel additional trade work to Route 1 Print.

This is because the work flowing through the system is often low-margin – and so it frees their print business customers up to focus on complex, bespoke or value-added speciality print projects.

Additionally, Sarah says Route 1 Print can also happily take on bespoke projects through the system when their trade customers require overflow capacity, or a longer run makes it less economical to do in-house.

### Strength in Flexibility

Another key facet to Route 1 Print's working relationship with Vpress is their proactive approach to building bespoke systems and modules to assist with the rapid evolution and expansion of the operation.

"They always say 'yes'. They set out the time line and cost of a development project realistically, but that attitude to tackling any challenge is a really important element of our relationship," says Sarah.

A core focus of Vpress is 'lightning quick' customers service says Sarah, who emphasises: "When you put in a ticket and ask for something to be done, then it's always less than an hour before they are on it."

The next stage for Route 1 Print is for its customers to be able to quickly and seamlessly integrate its entire product line-up into their e-commerce portal –– so there are no added stages or barriers to specification and ordering.

Sarah continues: **"Vpress wants its customers to succeed, as the more we grow and they support us in our ambitions, the better it is for both of us.**

**"You would think that was the norm these days, but it isn't. Most vendors sell you a product, charge you a licence, and it's up to you what you do with it. Vpress are proactive and help give us ideas to maximise our usage of their technology and resources."**

Route 1 Print is also increasingly seeing a trend where its trade print customers need a full 'self-service' platform for their clients. But critically, this is so they can spend more time building a partnership with those businesses outside of the day-to-day work of transacting print projects.

Sarah concludes: **"Vpress ultimately gives us a tool to help our trade customers be more profitable, deliver more effectively for their clients, while being safe in the knowledge that we are simply an extension of their factory."**

<h2>Web-to-Print from Vpress Turbocharges Route 1 Print's Growth Engine</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.route1print.co.uk/">Route 1 Print's</a> long-term strategy is to harness cutting-edge technology so it can deliver new levels of value to its trade-print customers.</p>
<p>Indeed, in an increasingly competitive industry, printers need to find a way to get noticed for all the right reasons. Print quality has never been higher, turnaround times have never been faster, and prices have never been cheaper. So, what can they do differently?</p>
<p>Part of the answer that Route 1 Print is delivering to its customers is the partnership it has with Vpress.</p>
<p>&quot;It has allowed us to significantly streamline integrated accounts using Vpress technology. Not only that, it has helped us strengthen customer service and ultimately provided a tool for our clients to win contracts they wouldn't have done otherwise –– specifically through the creation of bespoke ordering portals,&quot; explains Sarah Kilcoyne-Guilliam, Head of Sales and Integration at Route 1 Print.</p>
<p>Sarah adds: &quot;We want to be an engine of growth for our customers and Vpress's Coreprint Web-to-Print platform is helping us turbo charge that ambition.&quot;</p>
<p>Sarah also confirmed the usage of Vpress technology has led to a significant increase in streamlining when it comes to ordering process for Route 1 Print.</p>
<h3>Significant Time Savings</h3>
<p>A key example is that it saves more than 5 minutes for every order directed through <a href="/products/coreprint">Coreprint</a> – the advanced Web-to-Print system from Vpress – versus processing it in a traditional way.</p>
<p>This means when processing an average of 500 jobs through the system, Route 1 Print can eliminate over 40 hours of laborious and repetitive work. But that is not the only critical efficiency saving, as with the Coreprint system, Route 1 Print can support its account managers with automated processing and status reporting for its customers.</p>
<h3>A Strong Partnership</h3>
<p>The partnership between the two organisations began in 2017 and Vpress was initially brought in to support Bluetree Group's Instantprint brand. Since then, Route 1 Print – part of the Bluetree Group – has grown exponentially to be one of the largest trade printers in the UK and a key surgical mask manufacturer for the NHS.</p>
<p>Vpress meanwhile has expanded internationally and helped support its customers weather a seismic and rapid transition to e-commerce models due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.</p>
<p>Sarah continues: &quot;Route 1 Print is trade only, and for a segment of our clients, an integrated solution offers a big saving in transactional costs. Coreprint – Web-to-Print system and its flexibility is a really good fit for these organisations, and it means their customers can order directly through it.&quot;</p>
<p>Many of Route 1 Print's customer's use its Vpress-based systems –– with a common denominator being that its extensive integration features mean that manual order processing becomes a thing of a past and can plug directly into Route 1 Print's workflow.</p>
<p>&quot;When integrations became a key focus point for Bluetree Group, Vpress was a key ally, as it assisted us in supporting our customers with very little technical knowledge. It helped to get them up and running online quickly and professionally,&quot; continues Sarah.</p>
<p>Sarah went on to explain that when customers start ordering regularly through their Vpress-backed system, and find how easy it is to use, they funnel additional trade work to Route 1 Print.</p>
<p>This is because the work flowing through the system is often low-margin – and so it frees their print business customers up to focus on complex, bespoke or value-added speciality print projects.</p>
<p>Additionally, Sarah says Route 1 Print can also happily take on bespoke projects through the system when their trade customers require overflow capacity, or a longer run makes it less economical to do in-house.</p>
<h3>Strength in Flexibility</h3>
<p>Another key facet to Route 1 Print's working relationship with Vpress is their proactive approach to building bespoke systems and modules to assist with the rapid evolution and expansion of the operation.</p>
<p>&quot;They always say 'yes'. They set out the time line and cost of a development project realistically, but that attitude to tackling any challenge is a really important element of our relationship,&quot; says Sarah.</p>
<p>A core focus of Vpress is 'lightning quick' customers service says Sarah, who emphasises: &quot;When you put in a ticket and ask for something to be done, then it's always less than an hour before they are on it.&quot;</p>
<p>The next stage for Route 1 Print is for its customers to be able to quickly and seamlessly integrate its entire product line-up into their e-commerce portal –– so there are no added stages or barriers to specification and ordering.</p>
<p>Sarah continues: <strong>&quot;Vpress wants its customers to succeed, as the more we grow and they support us in our ambitions, the better it is for both of us.</strong></p>
<p><strong>&quot;You would think that was the norm these days, but it isn't. Most vendors sell you a product, charge you a licence, and it's up to you what you do with it. Vpress are proactive and help give us ideas to maximise our usage of their technology and resources.&quot;</strong></p>
<p>Route 1 Print is also increasingly seeing a trend where its trade print customers need a full 'self-service' platform for their clients. But critically, this is so they can spend more time building a partnership with those businesses outside of the day-to-day work of transacting print projects.</p>
<p>Sarah concludes: <strong>&quot;Vpress ultimately gives us a tool to help our trade customers be more profitable, deliver more effectively for their clients, while being safe in the knowledge that we are simply an extension of their factory.&quot;</strong></p>


Web-to-Print from Vpress Turbocharges Route 1 Print's Growth Engine

## Fortitude – A Story of Leadership Within Print

> "The strength to bear misfortune, pain. Calmly and patiently; firm with courage."

Being part of a team running a business during a pandemic is "challenging" to say the least, and within the print industry – where we manufacture our products from their raw elements – I believe it far extends beyond this with even greater pitfalls.

Make no doubt, as we all are only too aware; times are tough within our sector currently. However, we can bear witness to great fortitude all around us as some battle to turn things around. It is simply not in our nature to sit back and just give up – we must look for ways to adapt and turn the situation around us into a stable one, while we gather our wits to either wait it out or turn this catastrophe into a new form of positive momentum and growth for our businesses.

As the lauded US lawyer and civil rights defender Louis Nizer said: "[I know of no higher fortitude than stubbornness in the face of overwhelming odds.](https://www.azquotes.com/quote/215207)"

This was the situation facing thousands of businesses in the UK print industry on March 16th, 2020 – as we were all stunned at the changes taking place all around us at a rapid pace. Indeed, as we went into lockdown here in the UK, most of us had just suddenly lost our connection to our source of revenue, our customers.

### Digging Deep

While we were allowed a period of 'shock and disbelief', many of us had to rethink how we could sustain our position in business and retain valued staff and honour commitments.

Fortunately, here in the UK, our Government acted decisively and rapidly for business and launched the 'Furlough Scheme', which allowed valuable time to accept our shock and make plans to stabilise our operations.

This was not the norm around the world, and many within our great industry struggled more than we can imagine – some having to sadly close their doors for a last time.

Talking to many printers, most just kept going – although some took some time off believing it the right thing to do. There was no script, people did what they thought was best at the time, making hard decision as they went. Some, reflected on their business and how they could adapt it to cater for a seismic shift within the market – showing great fortitude and true leadership at a time of crisis.

We see over the course of human history the ability for communities, led by inspired individuals, to overcome seemingly insurmountable disaster. This was certainly the case for US founding father Samuel Adams, who wrote of his experience in rebuilding a nation shattered by war: "[The necessity of the times, more than ever, calls for our utmost circumspection, deliberation, fortitude, and perseverance.](https://www.azquotes.com/quote/573650?ref=fortitude)"

### Staring Down Adversity

Over the last year we have seen this type of fortitude in abundance, with PSPs such as Route1 Print, Precision Print, Prime Group, Data Image and Prosign, to name but a few, adapt to accommodate much needed PPE and related signage.

Apogee are another case in point, as it implemented an online service to "catch" print jobs needed during the pandemic with their OneSource solution. Bracknell Print, B&B Press, Mayfield Press, The Best Print and Nutshell Creative Market are also key examples of companies that identified a need to change and looked towards automation or the provision of a valued service to provide a sustainable future for their business and/or those around them.

I believe the leadership of these companies showed great fortitude – most likely more than they can know themselves – as they also inspired others to keep going through their example.

Let us be clear, if your business is standing still – yet holding its own waiting for what the future holds right now – you are winning and by default have great fortitude.

### Best Foot Forward

There are some positives, never before has there been so many customers looking for new ways to communicate – nor has there been such an array of channels to do so – and critically print has risen sharply up the agenda for many looking to cut through the digital noise.

We need to focus on this and really educate our customer base, and potential customers, about just how good physical print is over digital communication to get their message across.

We just must work differently, embracing new ways to overcome old and new challenges – understanding we have overcome the hardest part of all this. With the shock now subsided, we must rebuild with that same fortitude we have most likely unknowingly shown, while we attempted to just survive and keep going.

### Confidence is Key

There is no need to lack in confidence in offering leadership; as to get here has shown great fortitude, wherever we are and in whatever we do. We must now though find new ways to keep going and maintain the line, reaching out when needing to do so.

Success or failure is not a measure of who we are or how good we are at doing it in these uncertain times, but I will tell you what is – the ability to pick ourselves up in the face of such sheer adversity as leaders, to keep going and be open minded for new ways to carry out old tasks for the greater good of our business and staff.

Self-belief is critical, but so is being open to getting an unexpected nudge from a colleague, partner or even stranger to keep us on a true path that supports the direction we take. To get 'here' we have all shown fortitude in some way, I am certain of it, what we must now do is 'keep calm and carry on'. Perhaps one of the most poignant takes on this mission comes from British national treasurer Rudyard Kipling, whose beautiful poem 'If' I will leave you with in the knowledge its last line is meant to embrace all universally:

*If you can keep your head when all about you<br>
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,<br>
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,<br>
But make allowance for their doubting too;<br>
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,<br>
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,<br>
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,<br>
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:*

*If you can dream—and not make dreams your master;<br>
If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim;<br>
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster<br>
And treat those two impostors just the same;<br>
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken<br>
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,<br>
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,<br>
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:*

*If you can make one heap of all your winnings<br>
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,<br>
And lose, and start again at your beginnings<br>
And never breathe a word about your loss;<br>
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew<br>
To serve your turn long after they are gone,<br>
And so hold on when there is nothing in you<br>
Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'*

*If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,<br>
Or walk with Kings—nor lose the common touch,<br>
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,<br>
If all men count with you, but none too much;<br>
If you can fill the unforgiving minute<br>
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,<br>
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,<br>
And—which is more—you'll be a Man, my son!*

<h2>Fortitude – A Story of Leadership Within Print</h2>
<blockquote>
<p>&quot;The strength to bear misfortune, pain. Calmly and patiently; firm with courage.&quot;</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Being part of a team running a business during a pandemic is &quot;challenging&quot; to say the least, and within the print industry – where we manufacture our products from their raw elements – I believe it far extends beyond this with even greater pitfalls.</p>
<p>Make no doubt, as we all are only too aware; times are tough within our sector currently. However, we can bear witness to great fortitude all around us as some battle to turn things around. It is simply not in our nature to sit back and just give up – we must look for ways to adapt and turn the situation around us into a stable one, while we gather our wits to either wait it out or turn this catastrophe into a new form of positive momentum and growth for our businesses.</p>
<p>As the lauded US lawyer and civil rights defender Louis Nizer said: &quot;<a href="https://www.azquotes.com/quote/215207">I know of no higher fortitude than stubbornness in the face of overwhelming odds.</a>&quot;</p>
<p>This was the situation facing thousands of businesses in the UK print industry on March 16th, 2020 – as we were all stunned at the changes taking place all around us at a rapid pace. Indeed, as we went into lockdown here in the UK, most of us had just suddenly lost our connection to our source of revenue, our customers.</p>
<h3>Digging Deep</h3>
<p>While we were allowed a period of 'shock and disbelief', many of us had to rethink how we could sustain our position in business and retain valued staff and honour commitments.</p>
<p>Fortunately, here in the UK, our Government acted decisively and rapidly for business and launched the 'Furlough Scheme', which allowed valuable time to accept our shock and make plans to stabilise our operations.</p>
<p>This was not the norm around the world, and many within our great industry struggled more than we can imagine – some having to sadly close their doors for a last time.</p>
<p>Talking to many printers, most just kept going – although some took some time off believing it the right thing to do. There was no script, people did what they thought was best at the time, making hard decision as they went. Some, reflected on their business and how they could adapt it to cater for a seismic shift within the market – showing great fortitude and true leadership at a time of crisis.</p>
<p>We see over the course of human history the ability for communities, led by inspired individuals, to overcome seemingly insurmountable disaster. This was certainly the case for US founding father Samuel Adams, who wrote of his experience in rebuilding a nation shattered by war: &quot;<a href="https://www.azquotes.com/quote/573650?ref=fortitude">The necessity of the times, more than ever, calls for our utmost circumspection, deliberation, fortitude, and perseverance.</a>&quot;</p>
<h3>Staring Down Adversity</h3>
<p>Over the last year we have seen this type of fortitude in abundance, with PSPs such as Route1 Print, Precision Print, Prime Group, Data Image and Prosign, to name but a few, adapt to accommodate much needed PPE and related signage.</p>
<p>Apogee are another case in point, as it implemented an online service to &quot;catch&quot; print jobs needed during the pandemic with their OneSource solution. Bracknell Print, B&amp;B Press, Mayfield Press, The Best Print and Nutshell Creative Market are also key examples of companies that identified a need to change and looked towards automation or the provision of a valued service to provide a sustainable future for their business and/or those around them.</p>
<p>I believe the leadership of these companies showed great fortitude – most likely more than they can know themselves – as they also inspired others to keep going through their example.</p>
<p>Let us be clear, if your business is standing still – yet holding its own waiting for what the future holds right now – you are winning and by default have great fortitude.</p>
<h3>Best Foot Forward</h3>
<p>There are some positives, never before has there been so many customers looking for new ways to communicate – nor has there been such an array of channels to do so – and critically print has risen sharply up the agenda for many looking to cut through the digital noise.</p>
<p>We need to focus on this and really educate our customer base, and potential customers, about just how good physical print is over digital communication to get their message across.</p>
<p>We just must work differently, embracing new ways to overcome old and new challenges – understanding we have overcome the hardest part of all this. With the shock now subsided, we must rebuild with that same fortitude we have most likely unknowingly shown, while we attempted to just survive and keep going.</p>
<h3>Confidence is Key</h3>
<p>There is no need to lack in confidence in offering leadership; as to get here has shown great fortitude, wherever we are and in whatever we do. We must now though find new ways to keep going and maintain the line, reaching out when needing to do so.</p>
<p>Success or failure is not a measure of who we are or how good we are at doing it in these uncertain times, but I will tell you what is – the ability to pick ourselves up in the face of such sheer adversity as leaders, to keep going and be open minded for new ways to carry out old tasks for the greater good of our business and staff.</p>
<p>Self-belief is critical, but so is being open to getting an unexpected nudge from a colleague, partner or even stranger to keep us on a true path that supports the direction we take. To get 'here' we have all shown fortitude in some way, I am certain of it, what we must now do is 'keep calm and carry on'. Perhaps one of the most poignant takes on this mission comes from British national treasurer Rudyard Kipling, whose beautiful poem 'If' I will leave you with in the knowledge its last line is meant to embrace all universally:</p>
<p><em>If you can keep your head when all about you<br>
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,<br>
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,<br>
But make allowance for their doubting too;<br>
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,<br>
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,<br>
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,<br>
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:</em></p>
<p><em>If you can dream—and not make dreams your master;<br>
If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim;<br>
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster<br>
And treat those two impostors just the same;<br>
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken<br>
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,<br>
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,<br>
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:</em></p>
<p><em>If you can make one heap of all your winnings<br>
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,<br>
And lose, and start again at your beginnings<br>
And never breathe a word about your loss;<br>
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew<br>
To serve your turn long after they are gone,<br>
And so hold on when there is nothing in you<br>
Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'</em></p>
<p><em>If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,<br>
Or walk with Kings—nor lose the common touch,<br>
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,<br>
If all men count with you, but none too much;<br>
If you can fill the unforgiving minute<br>
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,<br>
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,<br>
And—which is more—you'll be a Man, my son!</em></p>


Fortitude – A Story of Leadership Within Print

## Print Applauds The Crown Pub as it Hits Major Milestone

At times of trial and tribulation, it is invariably community, friends and family pulling together that sees us through. The immense value of that spirit of togetherness has certainly shone through at [The Crown Pub](https://www.linkedin.com/company/thecrownpub/posts/?feedView=all&amp;viewAsMember=true), which on March 25th will celebrate opening its doors for exactly one year.

There has been laughs aplenty over the last 12 months, as well as moments of high drama and shared emotion. All of it has been overseen by the team at Vpress that came up with the idea for a virtual pub to provide an informal, fun and professional space for the print industry to come together.

"As it got harder and harder to meet face to face – before becoming impossible during the first lockdown – we came up with the concept of having a virtual pub to talk about the issues of the day. Once a week we come to The Crown Pub to have a friendly chat with our industry friends who are leaders, influencers and have the sharpest minds in UK printing," says [Kelvin Bell, Sales Director at Vpress](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelvinbell/). "It has not been about selling Web-to-Print but more about togetherness in a time of need."

There have been many hundreds that have 'walked' into The Crown, but each week there has also been its regulars that have held court while experts in a wide-variety of fields have provided focussed advice sessions on everything from how to improve your social media skills, through to environmental debates and insights on critical industry trends.

### A Force for Good

If the reaction to The Crown Pub on social media has been anything to go by, it really has struck a chord and become a valuable time every week where attendees from around the world can decompress and take time out of their busy schedules.

"The Crown Pub, I can't believe another week has come and gone and it's Pub time again. Looking forward to seeing everyone and the conversation. Cheers." – [Warren Werbitt Founder, Reel Motion Consulting](https://www.linkedin.com/in/warrenwerbitt/). Canada

"This is an excellent initiative and very worthwhile from both an educational and networking point of view." – [Brendan Perring, General Manager IPIA and Chairman BAPC. U.K.](https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-perring-a69a4215/)

"[Nigel Cliffe](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigeljcliffe/), your LinkedIn session was so totally worth it! Thank you for sharing your LinkedIn knowledge, energy, passion – and humour. You are the REAL DEAL!" – [Joanna Gore](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannegore121/) North America

When some of the Crown regulars were asked just what it has meant to them, their comments have highlighted how much we benefit from pulling together at times of challenge.

[Mark Stephenson](https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrstephenson/), Product Manager – Digital Printing and Press Systems, Fujifilm Europe says: "There has been a real benefit for our industry in having The Crown Pub.

"The pros are the great people I've met in the pub: Some old friends (and rivals), some faces and names I've managed to link together for the first time and some people who became acquaintances that developed into friends.

"The great things I've learned: Not only from some of the guest landlords and ladies who have volunteered to share their expertise but also from people who join from all parts of the print industry and come up with some fantastic gems of wisdom.

"It's helped me survive lockdown: I'm not sure I'd have made it this far without something to look forward to like The Crown Pub. Nothing goes into my calendar after 3.30pm on Thursday. A massive thank you to everyone who has made this event such an oasis.

"There is only one con: After 100 sessions Kelvin Bell has still not bought anyone a drink."

### A Valuable Resource

[Paul Stead](https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauljstead/), Commercial and Industrial Print Sales at Automated Systems Group, was also effusive in his praise: "The Crown Pub was simply a work of pure genius by Vpress. What a fantastic and easy way to keep people talking through a very difficult time. Some of the speakers have been truly inspirational, whilst others (all) have provided many nuggets of information that have served my own learning needs.

"It has been a pleasure sharing time with a few old friends and meeting so many new industry contacts, albeit virtually.

"I am really looking forward to spending time with the regulars, in a proper pub, elbow on the bar, pickled egg in hand and a pint of beer, paid for by Kelvin. It must be his round by now…"

Another important facet of The Crown Pub has been the open sharing of information, advice and consultancy, which [Elizabeth Bowerman](https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-bowerman-42644529/) – Head of UK Sales at Stephen Austin and Sons – has found particularly valuable.

"Vpress has to be commended for this concept, they didn't have to create The Crown, it is a generous initiative, they are extending their organisational network to the rest of us," says Elizabeth, who adds: "Learning has been a really important aspect, new technologies, new equipment and new ideas and it has been really, really good.

"When Nigel Cliffe did his dedicated session on LinkedIn, I found it particularly useful, and it was highly relevant to my day-to-day work."

Elizabeth continues: "It has also been really beneficial in terms of making connections with international regulars, as well as for specialist subjects, that has also really helped and been very useful – especially at a time when we can't go out to events where we would normally make these contacts.

"Everyone is happy to share, and openly collaborate to make the best out of what has been a really challenging year for our industry.

"There has been a lot of time when there have been some big personalities at The Crown, but I have never felt unable to get my point across. It has been very well managed by the team at Vpress. But…what I really need to know is when Kelvin will actually buy us a physical drink?"

### Open to All

While The Crown landlord may have racked up a pretty hefty tab of drinks that he owes his regulars, what they can call agree on is that some quick thinking and open-heartedness from the team at Vpress led to an initiative that has delivered immense value and assistance to those who have propped up the bar at The Crown over the last year.

With that in mind, the last word must go to [Lucy Swanston](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyswanston/), Managing Director of Nutshell Creative Marketing: 'What a great initiative the Vpress team have consistently delivered over this last year. The Crown has been a source of inspiration with its interesting speakers, informal atmosphere and some lively topics. It's been the closest we could get to raising a glass and staying connected with old industry friends and new. Thank you Vpress – look forward to a live Crown pub meet up. Question is…who will get the first round in?!'

<h2>Print Applauds The Crown Pub as it Hits Major Milestone</h2>
<p>At times of trial and tribulation, it is invariably community, friends and family pulling together that sees us through. The immense value of that spirit of togetherness has certainly shone through at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/thecrownpub/posts/?feedView=all&amp;viewAsMember=true">The Crown Pub</a>, which on March 25th will celebrate opening its doors for exactly one year.</p>
<p>There has been laughs aplenty over the last 12 months, as well as moments of high drama and shared emotion. All of it has been overseen by the team at Vpress that came up with the idea for a virtual pub to provide an informal, fun and professional space for the print industry to come together.</p>
<p>&quot;As it got harder and harder to meet face to face – before becoming impossible during the first lockdown – we came up with the concept of having a virtual pub to talk about the issues of the day. Once a week we come to The Crown Pub to have a friendly chat with our industry friends who are leaders, influencers and have the sharpest minds in UK printing,&quot; says <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelvinbell/">Kelvin Bell, Sales Director at Vpress</a>. &quot;It has not been about selling Web-to-Print but more about togetherness in a time of need.&quot;</p>
<p>There have been many hundreds that have 'walked' into The Crown, but each week there has also been its regulars that have held court while experts in a wide-variety of fields have provided focussed advice sessions on everything from how to improve your social media skills, through to environmental debates and insights on critical industry trends.</p>
<h3>A Force for Good</h3>
<p>If the reaction to The Crown Pub on social media has been anything to go by, it really has struck a chord and become a valuable time every week where attendees from around the world can decompress and take time out of their busy schedules.</p>
<p>&quot;The Crown Pub, I can't believe another week has come and gone and it's Pub time again. Looking forward to seeing everyone and the conversation. Cheers.&quot; – <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/warrenwerbitt/">Warren Werbitt Founder, Reel Motion Consulting</a>. Canada</p>
<p>&quot;This is an excellent initiative and very worthwhile from both an educational and networking point of view.&quot; – <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-perring-a69a4215/">Brendan Perring, General Manager IPIA and Chairman BAPC. U.K.</a></p>
<p>&quot;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigeljcliffe/">Nigel Cliffe</a>, your LinkedIn session was so totally worth it! Thank you for sharing your LinkedIn knowledge, energy, passion – and humour. You are the REAL DEAL!&quot; – <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannegore121/">Joanna Gore</a> North America</p>
<p>When some of the Crown regulars were asked just what it has meant to them, their comments have highlighted how much we benefit from pulling together at times of challenge.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrstephenson/">Mark Stephenson</a>, Product Manager – Digital Printing and Press Systems, Fujifilm Europe says: &quot;There has been a real benefit for our industry in having The Crown Pub.</p>
<p>&quot;The pros are the great people I've met in the pub: Some old friends (and rivals), some faces and names I've managed to link together for the first time and some people who became acquaintances that developed into friends.</p>
<p>&quot;The great things I've learned: Not only from some of the guest landlords and ladies who have volunteered to share their expertise but also from people who join from all parts of the print industry and come up with some fantastic gems of wisdom.</p>
<p>&quot;It's helped me survive lockdown: I'm not sure I'd have made it this far without something to look forward to like The Crown Pub. Nothing goes into my calendar after 3.30pm on Thursday. A massive thank you to everyone who has made this event such an oasis.</p>
<p>&quot;There is only one con: After 100 sessions Kelvin Bell has still not bought anyone a drink.&quot;</p>
<h3>A Valuable Resource</h3>
<p><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauljstead/">Paul Stead</a>, Commercial and Industrial Print Sales at Automated Systems Group, was also effusive in his praise: &quot;The Crown Pub was simply a work of pure genius by Vpress. What a fantastic and easy way to keep people talking through a very difficult time. Some of the speakers have been truly inspirational, whilst others (all) have provided many nuggets of information that have served my own learning needs.</p>
<p>&quot;It has been a pleasure sharing time with a few old friends and meeting so many new industry contacts, albeit virtually.</p>
<p>&quot;I am really looking forward to spending time with the regulars, in a proper pub, elbow on the bar, pickled egg in hand and a pint of beer, paid for by Kelvin. It must be his round by now…&quot;</p>
<p>Another important facet of The Crown Pub has been the open sharing of information, advice and consultancy, which <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-bowerman-42644529/">Elizabeth Bowerman</a> – Head of UK Sales at Stephen Austin and Sons – has found particularly valuable.</p>
<p>&quot;Vpress has to be commended for this concept, they didn't have to create The Crown, it is a generous initiative, they are extending their organisational network to the rest of us,&quot; says Elizabeth, who adds: &quot;Learning has been a really important aspect, new technologies, new equipment and new ideas and it has been really, really good.</p>
<p>&quot;When Nigel Cliffe did his dedicated session on LinkedIn, I found it particularly useful, and it was highly relevant to my day-to-day work.&quot;</p>
<p>Elizabeth continues: &quot;It has also been really beneficial in terms of making connections with international regulars, as well as for specialist subjects, that has also really helped and been very useful – especially at a time when we can't go out to events where we would normally make these contacts.</p>
<p>&quot;Everyone is happy to share, and openly collaborate to make the best out of what has been a really challenging year for our industry.</p>
<p>&quot;There has been a lot of time when there have been some big personalities at The Crown, but I have never felt unable to get my point across. It has been very well managed by the team at Vpress. But…what I really need to know is when Kelvin will actually buy us a physical drink?&quot;</p>
<h3>Open to All</h3>
<p>While The Crown landlord may have racked up a pretty hefty tab of drinks that he owes his regulars, what they can call agree on is that some quick thinking and open-heartedness from the team at Vpress led to an initiative that has delivered immense value and assistance to those who have propped up the bar at The Crown over the last year.</p>
<p>With that in mind, the last word must go to <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyswanston/">Lucy Swanston</a>, Managing Director of Nutshell Creative Marketing: 'What a great initiative the Vpress team have consistently delivered over this last year. The Crown has been a source of inspiration with its interesting speakers, informal atmosphere and some lively topics. It's been the closest we could get to raising a glass and staying connected with old industry friends and new. Thank you Vpress – look forward to a live Crown pub meet up. Question is…who will get the first round in?!'</p>


Print Applauds The Crown Pub as it Hits Major Milestone

# Web-to-Print or MIS? Adding Value To Your Customer Comes First

Imagine the scene if you will dear reader. A print business owner or manager sits down at their desk in the morning, they take their first sips of the morning brew, and with a small sigh they survey all the orders that have come in overnight and start to grapple with them manually –– trying to make sure the team is processing everything as they should, on price and on time. The realisation is there that day after day of this process there must be an easier, more automated way to handle this task in the 21^st^ century.

The next thought is often, but where do I start? Well, you will get different answers depending upon whom you ask and their own priorities.

As this is a [Web-to-Print](/products/coreprint) provider writing this article, you can guess the answer we are going to give you, but the facts remain true –– even though we can all have fun arguing over them.

The purpose of this article is to guide you to make the right decision to embrace automation in the most affordable, timely and logical way. And what is critical to understand is that it all starts with your customers. What is also very important to contemplate is the importance of entering a £200bn eCommerce market that is experiencing explosive growth[^1](https://ecommercenews.eu/ecommerce-in-uk-to-reach-e222-billion-in-2020/).

###### **Looking from The Outside In**

No doubt, having a good management-information-system (MIS) supporting your business is going to offer you a myriad of advantages when it comes to efficiencies, integrations and scalability. This of course does not even touch the surface.

There is no argument that it is a great benefit to your business. The key question to ask yourself though is: How does it directly add value to your customer's business in a way that they recognise immediately?

The other key questions are: What do your customers think of you having a good MIS? And, how will it affect them in the short-term?

The reality is that your customers are not concerned with the efficiency of your internal systems and workflow, and they are also not worried about how the job gets done. What they want above all else today is being able to specify, order and receive the products they want with minimal fuss and maximum ease of use.

Your customers need a solution to engage with you more efficiently, but not just with them, but with their stakeholders within their organisation. For you, you need to tie in your existing customer, which is what a good Web-to-Print system does automatically.

You also need something to attract new customers, making your business stand out from everyone else, and offering a value-add service that others will not. With an online solution you immediately enter a group of print businesses that are successfully leveraging their in-house skills, product specialisms, creative expertise and production experience to grow and access a much wider market –– all while delivering more value to your existing customers.

###### **Speed to Market**

Getting started with Web-to-Print begins with speaking to your customers to find out what they want. Service and quality will always remain high on their list. They will want to see your business offering advantages over other print providers to ensure their engagement with your business is easier and more convenient for them.

Implementing an MIS really makes no short-term difference to a customer, as most advantages are internal. If any of those changes affect the customer, they will be months or years down the line.

Web-to-Print however can make an impact in days to weeks to both you and your customers. It allows your customers access to order from your business 24/7 – 365. Not worrying if their Zoom meeting runs over it is now 5:45pm and too late to get an email reply or call you.

An effective Web-to-Print solution really shows your business is open when they need it, for ordering what they want at their convenience. So, they don't need to worry, just get home, have some tea, get the kids in bed and then order what they need at their convenience –– all the while knowing that order direct to the printer, or to the warehouse, will be despatched in the morning when the staff get in.

###### **Low Cost to High Cost**

We all have a finite budget, every Pound spent needs to generate at least three in terms of return on investment. This means the investment you make, and when you make it, is critical.

There is no doubt implementing an MIS to bring internal business efficiency is a sound one. But it will take perhaps one or more years for you to really start seeing the benefits (perhaps less with semi-automated estimating).

Web-to-Print however can start to give you a positive cashflow almost instantly, with features like implementing a payment gateway –– where a customer pays for the goods at the point of order, like everything else in the world.

Systems such as PunchOut Integration for corporate procurement platforms also ensures that purchase order validation happens before the order is submitted. This is key, as you are assured of an unimpeded payment process –– possibly in four working days form the order.

The conclusions here is that Web-to-Print, when implemented correctly, can give you a secure and automated revenue stream with no invoicing, which in turn saves you money on your bottom line. There can be no doubt that any Pound spent on a Web-to-Print solution will give a far faster return if approached correctly.

###### **Instant Change to Planned Change**

Now, it may have dawned on you by now that making changes to your business in order to achieve efficiency through automation, is a good idea. So, the next most common question we hear is: how quickly can we implement it?

An average MIS implementation is going to take around six+ months to achieve full integration and for all the bugs to be worked out and solved. It is an incredibly worthwhile project to undertake, but if your goal is revenue and market share growth, then it is not a short-term answer.

If you look to a Web-to-Print integration, then you can fundamentally see a return on a investment in days. What is also key here is that once you have had your training and start your customers ordering online, delivering them very significant increases in convenience, we can promise that you and they will not look back. Additionally, with job submission being directed straight to your workflow will also give you and your team critical time back that can be spent on prospecting for new customers or adding additional creativity and value to existing accounts.

###### **Conclusion**

Whichever way you look at it, Web-to-Print is the first building block when it comes to delivering value to your customers, tying them in for the longer term and facilitating a "sticky" relationship –– where your business becomes an extension of your customer's marketing and communications operation.

Simply put, they can order what they want, when they want it, while giving you optimised files ready for production. Once you have a working "shop front" for your business, a good solution will also give you the analytics of what jobs are coming in and how they are being processed. This data is ideal for you to find the MIS that best suits your business, thus building the efficiencies needed by your customer base and the profile of the jobs they submit to you –– as opposed to guessing what MIS you need.

<h1>Web-to-Print or MIS? Adding Value To Your Customer Comes First</h1>
<p>Imagine the scene if you will dear reader. A print business owner or manager sits down at their desk in the morning, they take their first sips of the morning brew, and with a small sigh they survey all the orders that have come in overnight and start to grapple with them manually –– trying to make sure the team is processing everything as they should, on price and on time. The realisation is there that day after day of this process there must be an easier, more automated way to handle this task in the 21^st^ century.</p>
<p>The next thought is often, but where do I start? Well, you will get different answers depending upon whom you ask and their own priorities.</p>
<p>As this is a <a href="/products/coreprint">Web-to-Print</a> provider writing this article, you can guess the answer we are going to give you, but the facts remain true –– even though we can all have fun arguing over them.</p>
<p>The purpose of this article is to guide you to make the right decision to embrace automation in the most affordable, timely and logical way. And what is critical to understand is that it all starts with your customers. What is also very important to contemplate is the importance of entering a £200bn eCommerce market that is experiencing explosive growth<a href="https://ecommercenews.eu/ecommerce-in-uk-to-reach-e222-billion-in-2020/">^1</a>.</p>
<h6><strong>Looking from The Outside In</strong></h6>
<p>No doubt, having a good management-information-system (MIS) supporting your business is going to offer you a myriad of advantages when it comes to efficiencies, integrations and scalability. This of course does not even touch the surface.</p>
<p>There is no argument that it is a great benefit to your business. The key question to ask yourself though is: How does it directly add value to your customer's business in a way that they recognise immediately?</p>
<p>The other key questions are: What do your customers think of you having a good MIS? And, how will it affect them in the short-term?</p>
<p>The reality is that your customers are not concerned with the efficiency of your internal systems and workflow, and they are also not worried about how the job gets done. What they want above all else today is being able to specify, order and receive the products they want with minimal fuss and maximum ease of use.</p>
<p>Your customers need a solution to engage with you more efficiently, but not just with them, but with their stakeholders within their organisation. For you, you need to tie in your existing customer, which is what a good Web-to-Print system does automatically.</p>
<p>You also need something to attract new customers, making your business stand out from everyone else, and offering a value-add service that others will not. With an online solution you immediately enter a group of print businesses that are successfully leveraging their in-house skills, product specialisms, creative expertise and production experience to grow and access a much wider market –– all while delivering more value to your existing customers.</p>
<h6><strong>Speed to Market</strong></h6>
<p>Getting started with Web-to-Print begins with speaking to your customers to find out what they want. Service and quality will always remain high on their list. They will want to see your business offering advantages over other print providers to ensure their engagement with your business is easier and more convenient for them.</p>
<p>Implementing an MIS really makes no short-term difference to a customer, as most advantages are internal. If any of those changes affect the customer, they will be months or years down the line.</p>
<p>Web-to-Print however can make an impact in days to weeks to both you and your customers. It allows your customers access to order from your business 24/7 – 365. Not worrying if their Zoom meeting runs over it is now 5:45pm and too late to get an email reply or call you.</p>
<p>An effective Web-to-Print solution really shows your business is open when they need it, for ordering what they want at their convenience. So, they don't need to worry, just get home, have some tea, get the kids in bed and then order what they need at their convenience –– all the while knowing that order direct to the printer, or to the warehouse, will be despatched in the morning when the staff get in.</p>
<h6><strong>Low Cost to High Cost</strong></h6>
<p>We all have a finite budget, every Pound spent needs to generate at least three in terms of return on investment. This means the investment you make, and when you make it, is critical.</p>
<p>There is no doubt implementing an MIS to bring internal business efficiency is a sound one. But it will take perhaps one or more years for you to really start seeing the benefits (perhaps less with semi-automated estimating).</p>
<p>Web-to-Print however can start to give you a positive cashflow almost instantly, with features like implementing a payment gateway –– where a customer pays for the goods at the point of order, like everything else in the world.</p>
<p>Systems such as PunchOut Integration for corporate procurement platforms also ensures that purchase order validation happens before the order is submitted. This is key, as you are assured of an unimpeded payment process –– possibly in four working days form the order.</p>
<p>The conclusions here is that Web-to-Print, when implemented correctly, can give you a secure and automated revenue stream with no invoicing, which in turn saves you money on your bottom line. There can be no doubt that any Pound spent on a Web-to-Print solution will give a far faster return if approached correctly.</p>
<h6><strong>Instant Change to Planned Change</strong></h6>
<p>Now, it may have dawned on you by now that making changes to your business in order to achieve efficiency through automation, is a good idea. So, the next most common question we hear is: how quickly can we implement it?</p>
<p>An average MIS implementation is going to take around six+ months to achieve full integration and for all the bugs to be worked out and solved. It is an incredibly worthwhile project to undertake, but if your goal is revenue and market share growth, then it is not a short-term answer.</p>
<p>If you look to a Web-to-Print integration, then you can fundamentally see a return on a investment in days. What is also key here is that once you have had your training and start your customers ordering online, delivering them very significant increases in convenience, we can promise that you and they will not look back. Additionally, with job submission being directed straight to your workflow will also give you and your team critical time back that can be spent on prospecting for new customers or adding additional creativity and value to existing accounts.</p>
<h6><strong>Conclusion</strong></h6>
<p>Whichever way you look at it, Web-to-Print is the first building block when it comes to delivering value to your customers, tying them in for the longer term and facilitating a &quot;sticky&quot; relationship –– where your business becomes an extension of your customer's marketing and communications operation.</p>
<p>Simply put, they can order what they want, when they want it, while giving you optimised files ready for production. Once you have a working &quot;shop front&quot; for your business, a good solution will also give you the analytics of what jobs are coming in and how they are being processed. This data is ideal for you to find the MIS that best suits your business, thus building the efficiencies needed by your customer base and the profile of the jobs they submit to you –– as opposed to guessing what MIS you need.</p>


Web-to-Print or MIS? Adding Value To Your Customer Comes First

# Adaptability and Convenience Are the Watchwords for Print

There is a well-known saying in reference to Darwin's *Origin of Species* that characterises businesses that have met the challenges that 2020 has thrown at us and found a way to move forward: "It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.\[^1\]"

Looking to 2021, it is clear that market demand will remain unstable for at least Q1 and with the promise of a vaccine, or three, we will likely see the recovery begin in Q2 and some form of stabilisation take shape by Q4.

So, this quote will remain more relevant than ever and it points to some real positives we can take away and build upon –– especially within the print industry, which has continued to transform into an accessible market for all both in B2C and B2B derivatives.

If we start by looking at the successful changes made in the way we have managed to get through pandemic driven lockdowns, one thing becomes clear, we have been serviced by our convenience. Indeed, the restrictions that have placed on our freedom of movement and congregation has resulted in a fundamental shift in consumption patterns with a big drive towards online buying from groceries through to personalised greetings cards.

We can praise Amazon as being the leader in this, but other services have successfully followed on and adapted to harness demand and significantly improve on the methods used to service it.

###### **Convenience is king**

We can now order something, and it will be delivered where we need it, and indeed most of the time when we need it. We have to come back to Amazon as a market leader in this field and certainly a case study in successful adaptation.  The process of ordering is so slick now that we only have to swipe a finger when we see what we want on our phone and it can arrive the same day or next day at our convenience.

So how does this help the print industry? Well, our industry has been yearning for change for many years now, lagging behind most other sectors in how they have transformed to embrace the internet.

Indeed, as Arno Ham, Chief Product Officer at Sana Commerce writes: "Most of the 2021 B2B e-commerce trends are about enhancing customer experience and **convenience**. The same topics also re-emerge, as technology gets smarter and enables previous trends to evolve even further in 2021.\[^2\]"

The generally agreed wisdom within the bubble of the print industry is that our products should not be seen as a commodity and that it's very difficult to package many print products and sell them online. But the truth is, the consumer doesn't care. If you can specify and order a car online and have it delivered to your door, then print is not a big challenge.

People buying online just want what they want at their convenience, they are used to it now. They want to easily browse, pick something at a price they are willing to pay and forget about it until "it" arrives within a reasonable time. They are not concerned with what kit you have, how many hours you take to do the job, or if your van is a hybrid or fully electric –– they want to order at their convenience.

The important question to ask yourself is: Why shouldn't they?  If you cannot express your good intentions, environmental credentials and high levels of quality and service to them as they browse your goods online, then you are missing the opportunity, especially in a B2C context.

###### **Learn from the best**

You need a clean, easy to navigate interface or online storefront, that allows a user to find, edit and checkout with payment in as few clicks as possible, without overselling what they could have in addition to what they want.

This way they will come back again and again, and you will be on the road to building trust in your online brand presence. But you have to do everything you say you can do, turn around the job and get it delivered to a high standard, it is a fact that people will pay more for convenience.

A good example of this is that many DIY items are cheaper on Screwfix.com or B and Q's diy.com (two leading U.K. suppliers) however Amazon and eBay have convenience – browse, select, swipe. What is clear is that the ease of use of an eCommerce platform is what is really key to driving sales, not necessarily price alone.

This is as important in a B2B context as in a B2C one, as what remains true is that you still have to make their buying process easier and increase its transparency, security and accountability.  What is great news is that ERP/CRM platforms such as SAP/Ariba, Coupa and Oracle have developed very impressive 'plugin' platforms that enable this to take place.

The good thing is that larger organisations are leading with their own versions of Amazon/eBay etc. in the adoption of enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) applications such as SAP/Ariba, Coupa, Oracle –– whereby you "plugin" in order to trade with them.

The customer controls their platform, which has been built to suit their specific needs, and it also offers control for their stakeholders, which have their businesses best interest at heart.

What is key to understand here is that by investing in suitable technology such as those mentioned above, you can secure a customer's business longer term and be paid in up to four working days –– with no invoice reconciliation and consequently a large reduction in admin hours.

###### **Web-to-Print horizons**

What is important to take away from this is that Web-to-Print technology has offered a staging post on this journey, but never has it been in such high demand as the need to transit business online has become critical.

The biggest shift taking place is that both B2B and B2C consumers have very significantly increased their expectations of the procurement process and now expect to have a solution that can be reached from anywhere, upon any device, at the user's immediate convenience.

We must stop thinking ourselves as being central in this selling process and see ourselves as being a vehicle in which people can be, make the buying of print easier – the customer is ultimately what ultimately must be kept front and centre.

Just as armed conflicts or the threat of it clearly drives technology advances that then filter down to the rest of society (the internet being the best example), the pandemic will drive change for our solutions to be customer-centric based upon social distancing and working remotely. To facilitate this, we need a "connection" to that customer profile, whether it be a website or portal/storefront providing them with a convenient way in which to engage with us the print suppliers.

[Web-to-Print](/resources/web-to-print-guide) is not the out of the box solution that many providers will let you believe, it needs to be understood in parallel of the understanding of your customers. What a good solution does do very well is provide those common needs freely without additional expense or costly development, this is the most common reason why a well-priced feature-rich system will always succeed over a cheaper solution most often from a less advanced market.

Those features reduce the need for "hidden costs" which you will have to bear in order to make your online proposition work. A good Web-to-Print solution will get you going and engaging with customers, but the people behind that solution should support you in growing and developing both you and your teams understanding of how it can work for you longer term. This is so you can increasingly be more automated and thus more profitable by reducing unnecessary manual tasks and focus your team on real value delivery to your customers.

Alas, we don't know the outcome of 2021 and what is ahead of us, but some factors are very clear and well documented: we need to get online in order to service our customers, we need to provide a solution that can evolve and work around their needs in their environment and it must be something that is convenient in order to succeed. More than that, what embracing this type of change does is fundamentally make your adaptable, and that is what will ensure your business success across 2021.

\[^1\]: Leon C. Megginson, Professor of Management and Marketing at Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge commenting on Darwin's *Origin of Species* \[^2\]: https://www.sana-commerce.com/blog/b2b-ecommerce-trends/

<h1>Adaptability and Convenience Are the Watchwords for Print</h1>
<p>There is a well-known saying in reference to Darwin's <em>Origin of Species</em> that characterises businesses that have met the challenges that 2020 has thrown at us and found a way to move forward: &quot;It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change.[^1]&quot;</p>
<p>Looking to 2021, it is clear that market demand will remain unstable for at least Q1 and with the promise of a vaccine, or three, we will likely see the recovery begin in Q2 and some form of stabilisation take shape by Q4.</p>
<p>So, this quote will remain more relevant than ever and it points to some real positives we can take away and build upon –– especially within the print industry, which has continued to transform into an accessible market for all both in B2C and B2B derivatives.</p>
<p>If we start by looking at the successful changes made in the way we have managed to get through pandemic driven lockdowns, one thing becomes clear, we have been serviced by our convenience. Indeed, the restrictions that have placed on our freedom of movement and congregation has resulted in a fundamental shift in consumption patterns with a big drive towards online buying from groceries through to personalised greetings cards.</p>
<p>We can praise Amazon as being the leader in this, but other services have successfully followed on and adapted to harness demand and significantly improve on the methods used to service it.</p>
<h6><strong>Convenience is king</strong></h6>
<p>We can now order something, and it will be delivered where we need it, and indeed most of the time when we need it. We have to come back to Amazon as a market leader in this field and certainly a case study in successful adaptation.  The process of ordering is so slick now that we only have to swipe a finger when we see what we want on our phone and it can arrive the same day or next day at our convenience.</p>
<p>So how does this help the print industry? Well, our industry has been yearning for change for many years now, lagging behind most other sectors in how they have transformed to embrace the internet.</p>
<p>Indeed, as Arno Ham, Chief Product Officer at Sana Commerce writes: &quot;Most of the 2021 B2B e-commerce trends are about enhancing customer experience and <strong>convenience</strong>. The same topics also re-emerge, as technology gets smarter and enables previous trends to evolve even further in 2021.[^2]&quot;</p>
<p>The generally agreed wisdom within the bubble of the print industry is that our products should not be seen as a commodity and that it's very difficult to package many print products and sell them online. But the truth is, the consumer doesn't care. If you can specify and order a car online and have it delivered to your door, then print is not a big challenge.</p>
<p>People buying online just want what they want at their convenience, they are used to it now. They want to easily browse, pick something at a price they are willing to pay and forget about it until &quot;it&quot; arrives within a reasonable time. They are not concerned with what kit you have, how many hours you take to do the job, or if your van is a hybrid or fully electric –– they want to order at their convenience.</p>
<p>The important question to ask yourself is: Why shouldn't they?  If you cannot express your good intentions, environmental credentials and high levels of quality and service to them as they browse your goods online, then you are missing the opportunity, especially in a B2C context.</p>
<h6><strong>Learn from the best</strong></h6>
<p>You need a clean, easy to navigate interface or online storefront, that allows a user to find, edit and checkout with payment in as few clicks as possible, without overselling what they could have in addition to what they want.</p>
<p>This way they will come back again and again, and you will be on the road to building trust in your online brand presence. But you have to do everything you say you can do, turn around the job and get it delivered to a high standard, it is a fact that people will pay more for convenience.</p>
<p>A good example of this is that many DIY items are cheaper on Screwfix.com or B and Q's diy.com (two leading U.K. suppliers) however Amazon and eBay have convenience – browse, select, swipe. What is clear is that the ease of use of an eCommerce platform is what is really key to driving sales, not necessarily price alone.</p>
<p>This is as important in a B2B context as in a B2C one, as what remains true is that you still have to make their buying process easier and increase its transparency, security and accountability.  What is great news is that ERP/CRM platforms such as SAP/Ariba, Coupa and Oracle have developed very impressive 'plugin' platforms that enable this to take place.</p>
<p>The good thing is that larger organisations are leading with their own versions of Amazon/eBay etc. in the adoption of enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) applications such as SAP/Ariba, Coupa, Oracle –– whereby you &quot;plugin&quot; in order to trade with them.</p>
<p>The customer controls their platform, which has been built to suit their specific needs, and it also offers control for their stakeholders, which have their businesses best interest at heart.</p>
<p>What is key to understand here is that by investing in suitable technology such as those mentioned above, you can secure a customer's business longer term and be paid in up to four working days –– with no invoice reconciliation and consequently a large reduction in admin hours.</p>
<h6><strong>Web-to-Print horizons</strong></h6>
<p>What is important to take away from this is that Web-to-Print technology has offered a staging post on this journey, but never has it been in such high demand as the need to transit business online has become critical.</p>
<p>The biggest shift taking place is that both B2B and B2C consumers have very significantly increased their expectations of the procurement process and now expect to have a solution that can be reached from anywhere, upon any device, at the user's immediate convenience.</p>
<p>We must stop thinking ourselves as being central in this selling process and see ourselves as being a vehicle in which people can be, make the buying of print easier – the customer is ultimately what ultimately must be kept front and centre.</p>
<p>Just as armed conflicts or the threat of it clearly drives technology advances that then filter down to the rest of society (the internet being the best example), the pandemic will drive change for our solutions to be customer-centric based upon social distancing and working remotely. To facilitate this, we need a &quot;connection&quot; to that customer profile, whether it be a website or portal/storefront providing them with a convenient way in which to engage with us the print suppliers.</p>
<p><a href="/resources/web-to-print-guide">Web-to-Print</a> is not the out of the box solution that many providers will let you believe, it needs to be understood in parallel of the understanding of your customers. What a good solution does do very well is provide those common needs freely without additional expense or costly development, this is the most common reason why a well-priced feature-rich system will always succeed over a cheaper solution most often from a less advanced market.</p>
<p>Those features reduce the need for &quot;hidden costs&quot; which you will have to bear in order to make your online proposition work. A good Web-to-Print solution will get you going and engaging with customers, but the people behind that solution should support you in growing and developing both you and your teams understanding of how it can work for you longer term. This is so you can increasingly be more automated and thus more profitable by reducing unnecessary manual tasks and focus your team on real value delivery to your customers.</p>
<p>Alas, we don't know the outcome of 2021 and what is ahead of us, but some factors are very clear and well documented: we need to get online in order to service our customers, we need to provide a solution that can evolve and work around their needs in their environment and it must be something that is convenient in order to succeed. More than that, what embracing this type of change does is fundamentally make your adaptable, and that is what will ensure your business success across 2021.</p>
<p>[^1]: Leon C. Megginson, Professor of Management and Marketing at Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge commenting on Darwin's <em>Origin of Species</em> [^2]: https://www.sana-commerce.com/blog/b2b-ecommerce-trends/</p>


Adaptability and Convenience Are the Watchwords for Print

# Why Print Needs to Jump on Board the eCommerce Bullet Train

### **The demand for printed products in all their myriad shapes and forms will return to its natural level when the great disruptor of Covid-19 has abated, but – and it is a big one – what will never be the same again will be how it is specified, ordered and produced.**

A recent economic report from *eMarketer* provides a reference for being able to confidently make this bold statement. It estimates that from a global retail market of $25tn (£19.4tn) in 2019 – an increase of 4.5 percent on year-on-year – that $3.5bn (£2.7tn) was made up by eCommerce.

This startling and vitally important figure though is that it was rise of 20.7% year-on-year, and that with the Covid-19 Pandemic accelerating the trend, it will reach in excess of $5tn (£3.9tn) by 2021. *(Source: Global eCommerce 2019 report – emarketer.com)*

Kelvin Bell, Sales Director for Vpress puts into focus why these figures are so critical for the print industry and will ultimately play a major part in defining its future and the way its sector organisations do business: "Digital transformation has been around for quite some time; we have been witnessing that since before fax machines gave way to the internet. We use technology to move forward."

Kelvin continues: "By default purchasing has changed, we are led by our customers and they are buying things differently. They are leading, we are following and meeting the demand of the market. In the B2B sector large and medium organisations are using online eProcurement. That brings a huge number of opportunities where you can engage with customers in digitally.

###### "What do they want to do? They want to be able to order online, 24/7 365, no matter what the time zone is. And if you're the printer providing those items it is a huge opportunity, you are also more closely tied into the customer."

Kelvin adds: "For the B2C sector, you are again servicing the needs of the market. If they want something personalised and you have a digital press, then you can put ink on paper and again it increases the number of sheets you are bringing through into production."

Indeed, analysis from Statista highlights that eCommerce will make up a staggering 22 percent of the retail market worldwide by 2023 after factoring in its acceleration due to Covid-19.

What makes this such a fundamentally important trend for the print industry is that buying habits are changing, and those habits will cross over from consumer to business purchases. You expect to be able to order your shirts online at 22:00 in the evening and have them delivered the next day, the expectation of the print industry will be no different.

*(Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/534123/e-commerce-share-of-retail-sales-worldwide/)*

Fundamentally this means that [Web-to-Print](/products/coreprint) platforms and the pursuit of workflow automation will be a cornerstone upon which the print industry will be able to rebuild itself to meet new patterns of demand both during and after the current level of business disruption subsides.

### **Web-to-Print: an engine to adapt and grow**

A direct example to highlight the relevance to print in a real-world setting is Amazon. It started with the sale of a single printed book, and that was the start of a seismic event that would see it grow to become a $1.14tn (£900bn) company by 2020.

It founded its growth on using Web-to-Print and capturing the available market share in the eCommerce book sector before branching out. The point was proven then, and it needs to be heeded now, by every single print business operating today.

Vpress has witnessed a very significant trend of its own in this respect. It has found that print businesses that were once on the verges of exploring and trying to understand the application of online print systems, engines or bespoke software are now moving as quickly as possible to follow the mass exodus towards cloud-based print procurement.

"This process can seem daunting, but it isn't" continues Kelvin, who adds: "You have to look at it as though a strategy, it's changed, and change is difficult and the older we get the harder it is. But if you have a strategy it has to answer; are you meeting the demands of the customers you have now? Are you targeting the business to go for a particular market?

"Whether it is B2B or B2C, the software and workflow are fundamentally the same, but you really have to approach using Web-to-Print engines quite differently. The first requires a much more fundamental engagement with your client, and the other is about online strategy and understanding where you are in the market."

###### Kelvin adds: "The idea of a really good Web-to-Print system is that it is going to grow and encompass your expectations, as well as meet your customer's demands. Ultimately what Web-to-Print should be doing is giving you efficiency, scalability and profit.

"The initial set-up cost is just one part of it, you have to make sure you choose the right provider and make the right decisions early on in the process."

### **Bring your customers closer**

The advice from Vpress is clear, unnecessary manual tasks such as keying in customer requirements for stock products must be removed from print businesses. The online print engine provider's core philosophy – one that is being proven out in the market – is that automation will enhance profitability and make it more fluid to get orders from the customer.

Kelvin continues: "You may only be running your presses from 8am to 6pm, but if you have a Web-to-Print front end that is firing into an automated system, then your shop is open for business 24/7.

###### "You just get in there in the morning and the jobs are ready to print. If those jobs are already optimised to go straight on to the press, and through to delivery, then all of that is going to benefit the scalability, efficiency, accuracy and profitability of your business."

The final key to unlocking the potential of Web-to-Print technology – and joining the eCommerce revolution before it is too late – is that the online ordering and specification of print does not distance you from your customer. Far from it. It makes their working life easier day-to-day as they use platforms such as Coreprint Web-to-Print from Vpress to quickly and efficiently order what they want – without having to pick up a phone or write yet another arduous specification email.

###### Kelvin concludes: "Online print engines bring you closer to the customer because you make their life easier. The personal relationship with them can then be built up directly outside this transactional space, in fact it gives you more time to focus on understanding your customers' businesses, and ultimately delivering them more value."

Extrapolating out current market trends, researchers at Nasdaq have estimated that by 2040, around 95 percent of all purchases are expected to be via eCommerce. The key here is the word '<u>all</u>'. So, the question you should be asking yourself is: Why wait any longer to get on board with eCommerce?

(Source: https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/uk-online-shopping-and-e-commerce-statistics-2017-2017-03-14)

<h1>Why Print Needs to Jump on Board the eCommerce Bullet Train</h1>
<h3><strong>The demand for printed products in all their myriad shapes and forms will return to its natural level when the great disruptor of Covid-19 has abated, but – and it is a big one – what will never be the same again will be how it is specified, ordered and produced.</strong></h3>
<p>A recent economic report from <em>eMarketer</em> provides a reference for being able to confidently make this bold statement. It estimates that from a global retail market of $25tn (£19.4tn) in 2019 – an increase of 4.5 percent on year-on-year – that $3.5bn (£2.7tn) was made up by eCommerce.</p>
<p>This startling and vitally important figure though is that it was rise of 20.7% year-on-year, and that with the Covid-19 Pandemic accelerating the trend, it will reach in excess of $5tn (£3.9tn) by 2021. <em>(Source: Global eCommerce 2019 report – emarketer.com)</em></p>
<p>Kelvin Bell, Sales Director for Vpress puts into focus why these figures are so critical for the print industry and will ultimately play a major part in defining its future and the way its sector organisations do business: &quot;Digital transformation has been around for quite some time; we have been witnessing that since before fax machines gave way to the internet. We use technology to move forward.&quot;</p>
<p>Kelvin continues: &quot;By default purchasing has changed, we are led by our customers and they are buying things differently. They are leading, we are following and meeting the demand of the market. In the B2B sector large and medium organisations are using online eProcurement. That brings a huge number of opportunities where you can engage with customers in digitally.</p>
<h6>&quot;What do they want to do? They want to be able to order online, 24/7 365, no matter what the time zone is. And if you're the printer providing those items it is a huge opportunity, you are also more closely tied into the customer.&quot;</h6>
<p>Kelvin adds: &quot;For the B2C sector, you are again servicing the needs of the market. If they want something personalised and you have a digital press, then you can put ink on paper and again it increases the number of sheets you are bringing through into production.&quot;</p>
<p>Indeed, analysis from Statista highlights that eCommerce will make up a staggering 22 percent of the retail market worldwide by 2023 after factoring in its acceleration due to Covid-19.</p>
<p>What makes this such a fundamentally important trend for the print industry is that buying habits are changing, and those habits will cross over from consumer to business purchases. You expect to be able to order your shirts online at 22:00 in the evening and have them delivered the next day, the expectation of the print industry will be no different.</p>
<p><em>(Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/534123/e-commerce-share-of-retail-sales-worldwide/)</em></p>
<p>Fundamentally this means that <a href="/products/coreprint">Web-to-Print</a> platforms and the pursuit of workflow automation will be a cornerstone upon which the print industry will be able to rebuild itself to meet new patterns of demand both during and after the current level of business disruption subsides.</p>
<h3><strong>Web-to-Print: an engine to adapt and grow</strong></h3>
<p>A direct example to highlight the relevance to print in a real-world setting is Amazon. It started with the sale of a single printed book, and that was the start of a seismic event that would see it grow to become a $1.14tn (£900bn) company by 2020.</p>
<p>It founded its growth on using Web-to-Print and capturing the available market share in the eCommerce book sector before branching out. The point was proven then, and it needs to be heeded now, by every single print business operating today.</p>
<p>Vpress has witnessed a very significant trend of its own in this respect. It has found that print businesses that were once on the verges of exploring and trying to understand the application of online print systems, engines or bespoke software are now moving as quickly as possible to follow the mass exodus towards cloud-based print procurement.</p>
<p>&quot;This process can seem daunting, but it isn't&quot; continues Kelvin, who adds: &quot;You have to look at it as though a strategy, it's changed, and change is difficult and the older we get the harder it is. But if you have a strategy it has to answer; are you meeting the demands of the customers you have now? Are you targeting the business to go for a particular market?</p>
<p>&quot;Whether it is B2B or B2C, the software and workflow are fundamentally the same, but you really have to approach using Web-to-Print engines quite differently. The first requires a much more fundamental engagement with your client, and the other is about online strategy and understanding where you are in the market.&quot;</p>
<h6>Kelvin adds: &quot;The idea of a really good Web-to-Print system is that it is going to grow and encompass your expectations, as well as meet your customer's demands. Ultimately what Web-to-Print should be doing is giving you efficiency, scalability and profit.</h6>
<p>&quot;The initial set-up cost is just one part of it, you have to make sure you choose the right provider and make the right decisions early on in the process.&quot;</p>
<h3><strong>Bring your customers closer</strong></h3>
<p>The advice from Vpress is clear, unnecessary manual tasks such as keying in customer requirements for stock products must be removed from print businesses. The online print engine provider's core philosophy – one that is being proven out in the market – is that automation will enhance profitability and make it more fluid to get orders from the customer.</p>
<p>Kelvin continues: &quot;You may only be running your presses from 8am to 6pm, but if you have a Web-to-Print front end that is firing into an automated system, then your shop is open for business 24/7.</p>
<h6>&quot;You just get in there in the morning and the jobs are ready to print. If those jobs are already optimised to go straight on to the press, and through to delivery, then all of that is going to benefit the scalability, efficiency, accuracy and profitability of your business.&quot;</h6>
<p>The final key to unlocking the potential of Web-to-Print technology – and joining the eCommerce revolution before it is too late – is that the online ordering and specification of print does not distance you from your customer. Far from it. It makes their working life easier day-to-day as they use platforms such as Coreprint Web-to-Print from Vpress to quickly and efficiently order what they want – without having to pick up a phone or write yet another arduous specification email.</p>
<h6>Kelvin concludes: &quot;Online print engines bring you closer to the customer because you make their life easier. The personal relationship with them can then be built up directly outside this transactional space, in fact it gives you more time to focus on understanding your customers' businesses, and ultimately delivering them more value.&quot;</h6>
<p>Extrapolating out current market trends, researchers at Nasdaq have estimated that by 2040, around 95 percent of all purchases are expected to be via eCommerce. The key here is the word '<u>all</u>'. So, the question you should be asking yourself is: Why wait any longer to get on board with eCommerce?</p>
<p>(Source: https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/uk-online-shopping-and-e-commerce-statistics-2017-2017-03-14)</p>


Why Print Needs to Jump on Board the eCommerce Bullet Train

# A Day in the Life of a Vpress Account Manager...

and How it's Changed!

###### **February 2020 Tuesday morning:**

Early morning start at 5.30am coffee bring the feeling into my body and a piece of toast on the run to the train station. Slow train into town, I am hoping for a seat this morning, just to give me the chance to open the laptop on the way. The first meeting, central London 9 am requires the 7.08 am train in to get through to it.

Great meeting with Client A, lasted a little longer than expected, but coffee break time to catch up some emails and calls to other clients. Seems Client B is needing some help with a tender they are doing, they have asked if I can quickly complete a few questions for them. There are 54 IT and security questions ranging from hosting details through to some quite technical encryption questions. This is going to require me to gather at least 4 people from within Vpress to help answer these questions, nothing quick about this but will start with our Technical Director on that one.

Coffee is going down well and a sneaky cheese toastie, onto another request from Client C, do I have time to help with a client demo next week? Of course, that's something I love doing and could say pretty good at if I say so myself, probably because I enjoy it. Argghh, agreed to next week and Client C has replied quick that they do not have a demo site ready could we help with this. Professional Services team also love me on these requests, "NOT" no artwork, no brief, but can I have a branded demo site by Friday!!

Right, time to move, quick bus over to the east side of town for my next meeting. This is one of my quarterly client reviews, a run through their sites, usage, new features we now have and plans for the future. The client also has a couple of exciting opportunities coming our way, it's great to see the client thinking of how we can help them more, makes my job a little easier. Wow, where has the day gone, already 2.30 pm.

Another coffee shop, emails, missed calls, well actually 12 missed calls, need to call Client D back asap it seems. Interesting call, their client has realised that one of their users has been ordering far too much print material and wondered if there is something Coreprint can do to help. I have suggested putting this user on authorisation so their orders can be controlled, great idea, but how? A quick run-through over the phone and followed by an email with our help sheet on it works.

Ok, finally cleared the most important emails, looked up and 4pm is arriving. Do I start my journey home through rush hour or wait a while? Let's give it ago.. bus back to Waterloo Station, arrive two minutes after the train home leaves, so 30-40min wait until the next one. I suppose it gives me more time for more emails. Finally on the train, no seats so it's a standing challenge for the next hour and 15min. Home 7pm-ish, but at least it's not the same tomorrow, drive down the coast.

###### **June 2020 Friday morning:**

Well here we are locked down, but Coreprint is still running and clients are receiving jobs and work through, so support and account management are still here.

No travel, but I have a full diary with Zoom, Goto Meeting, Team meetings as well as emails and calls.

9 am first meeting of the day on Skype – the account management meeting to see how everyone is doing with these new times, interesting to see everyone's homes. Didn't realise Dave, the other account manager at Vpress, has such a great lounge with bi-fold doors!

A few laughs and discussions, now on to client work.

10\.30 am Webex with Client A to discuss how we can help with workflow from Coreprint through to their printing presses. XML order job submission to their MI and FTP transfer of artwork into their hot folders is just the trick.

11\.30 am Go to Meeting with Client B to demo our new Modal module, which allows for Coreprint templates and products to be used within other platforms and systems without the need for the user to be transferred into Coreprint. Good webex be long.

A quick sandwich and onto the next webex.

1 pm Webex to Client C's client demonstration of the system and answering question to secure the project for Client C.

2 pm Zoom with Client D in regards to a new project they have coming, this included 2 of my technical team.

3 pm Teams with Client A again, a couple of issues from the webex this morning, but easily resolved.

With a whole day of back to back Webex, its time to catch up on emails missed calls.

Ok, the last webex of the day coming up, 4.30 pm with one of my US clients. The only time they could do.

It's strange, I have not driven or left the house, but I feel exhausted. If this is going to be the new normal I think I am going to have to manage the Webex and calls differently. Maybe 45 min calls to enable a break and catchup, certainly allows me to be in contact with more clients in a day, but hard work.

So here is a before and after COVID sample day in the life of an account manager. I hope this has been of interest and useful to all, one thing which would be good to understand is if your account manager doesn't answer your phone immediately or reply to your email immediately please allow an hour or so, we are probably on a call or webex which may last for an hour or so. We will be in touch though as soon as we can.

Thanks for reading.

<h1>A Day in the Life of a Vpress Account Manager...</h1>
<p>and How it's Changed!</p>
<h6><strong>February 2020 Tuesday morning:</strong></h6>
<p>Early morning start at 5.30am coffee bring the feeling into my body and a piece of toast on the run to the train station. Slow train into town, I am hoping for a seat this morning, just to give me the chance to open the laptop on the way. The first meeting, central London 9 am requires the 7.08 am train in to get through to it.</p>
<p>Great meeting with Client A, lasted a little longer than expected, but coffee break time to catch up some emails and calls to other clients. Seems Client B is needing some help with a tender they are doing, they have asked if I can quickly complete a few questions for them. There are 54 IT and security questions ranging from hosting details through to some quite technical encryption questions. This is going to require me to gather at least 4 people from within Vpress to help answer these questions, nothing quick about this but will start with our Technical Director on that one.</p>
<p>Coffee is going down well and a sneaky cheese toastie, onto another request from Client C, do I have time to help with a client demo next week? Of course, that's something I love doing and could say pretty good at if I say so myself, probably because I enjoy it. Argghh, agreed to next week and Client C has replied quick that they do not have a demo site ready could we help with this. Professional Services team also love me on these requests, &quot;NOT&quot; no artwork, no brief, but can I have a branded demo site by Friday!!</p>
<p>Right, time to move, quick bus over to the east side of town for my next meeting. This is one of my quarterly client reviews, a run through their sites, usage, new features we now have and plans for the future. The client also has a couple of exciting opportunities coming our way, it's great to see the client thinking of how we can help them more, makes my job a little easier. Wow, where has the day gone, already 2.30 pm.</p>
<p>Another coffee shop, emails, missed calls, well actually 12 missed calls, need to call Client D back asap it seems. Interesting call, their client has realised that one of their users has been ordering far too much print material and wondered if there is something Coreprint can do to help. I have suggested putting this user on authorisation so their orders can be controlled, great idea, but how? A quick run-through over the phone and followed by an email with our help sheet on it works.</p>
<p>Ok, finally cleared the most important emails, looked up and 4pm is arriving. Do I start my journey home through rush hour or wait a while? Let's give it ago.. bus back to Waterloo Station, arrive two minutes after the train home leaves, so 30-40min wait until the next one. I suppose it gives me more time for more emails. Finally on the train, no seats so it's a standing challenge for the next hour and 15min. Home 7pm-ish, but at least it's not the same tomorrow, drive down the coast.</p>
<h6><strong>June 2020 Friday morning:</strong></h6>
<p>Well here we are locked down, but Coreprint is still running and clients are receiving jobs and work through, so support and account management are still here.</p>
<p>No travel, but I have a full diary with Zoom, Goto Meeting, Team meetings as well as emails and calls.</p>
<p>9 am first meeting of the day on Skype – the account management meeting to see how everyone is doing with these new times, interesting to see everyone's homes. Didn't realise Dave, the other account manager at Vpress, has such a great lounge with bi-fold doors!</p>
<p>A few laughs and discussions, now on to client work.</p>
<p>10.30 am Webex with Client A to discuss how we can help with workflow from Coreprint through to their printing presses. XML order job submission to their MI and FTP transfer of artwork into their hot folders is just the trick.</p>
<p>11.30 am Go to Meeting with Client B to demo our new Modal module, which allows for Coreprint templates and products to be used within other platforms and systems without the need for the user to be transferred into Coreprint. Good webex be long.</p>
<p>A quick sandwich and onto the next webex.</p>
<p>1 pm Webex to Client C's client demonstration of the system and answering question to secure the project for Client C.</p>
<p>2 pm Zoom with Client D in regards to a new project they have coming, this included 2 of my technical team.</p>
<p>3 pm Teams with Client A again, a couple of issues from the webex this morning, but easily resolved.</p>
<p>With a whole day of back to back Webex, its time to catch up on emails missed calls.</p>
<p>Ok, the last webex of the day coming up, 4.30 pm with one of my US clients. The only time they could do.</p>
<p>It's strange, I have not driven or left the house, but I feel exhausted. If this is going to be the new normal I think I am going to have to manage the Webex and calls differently. Maybe 45 min calls to enable a break and catchup, certainly allows me to be in contact with more clients in a day, but hard work.</p>
<p>So here is a before and after COVID sample day in the life of an account manager. I hope this has been of interest and useful to all, one thing which would be good to understand is if your account manager doesn't answer your phone immediately or reply to your email immediately please allow an hour or so, we are probably on a call or webex which may last for an hour or so. We will be in touch though as soon as we can.</p>
<p>Thanks for reading.</p>


A Day in the Life of a Vpress Account Manager... and How it's Changed!

## Print 4.0

Print 4.0 I hear you moan, what happened to Print 2.0 and where did Print 3.0 go! When recently asked about Print 4.0, I was taken aback as I really thought the "number.point.oh" thing was an overused marketing fad long lost in history, however using my trusty assistant Ms Google and a few hours of hard work it seems no, we really getting ready for Print 4.0 it is just we may know it as something else entirely!

The previous technology milestones of print were digital (it used to be terrible and unable to provide a solid colour), the rollout of the Internet (remember we had to unplug the phone), the engines that power the processing at Server level (slow loading of pages) not to mention the education and confidence of people using online platforms as which are now more the norm that not (security).

The pandemic has changed us, the Internet has grown up, rapidly within its shadow and we have run to it with gusto and more online ordering of "stuff", business essentials and lots of face time with various meeting applications. We now know why we have that 200Mb broadband, and it's still not enough. The Internet has changed the way we work, and we are embracing it, life as we once knew it would never be the same – so how does this encompass print and explain Print 4.0?

In essence "Print 4.0" is what we already have. It is just putting it together in a workable logical way for it to do what we want it to do – whatever that may be! It is in essence workflow working correctly to meet both our and our customer expectations with key integration where needed. In 2018 global research company McKinsey stated that 40-50% of machines needed to be replaced in manufacturing in order to keep up in general industry, but in print; presses are needed to be updated as standard as technology advances. Print 4.0 is getting these presses working both together and with other elements in a more integrated fashion. The advantages are huge both time, cost and more importantly, profitability. What we are talking about here is efficiency, joining up the dots to work better, true automation. Print 4.0 is not the new stuff in the process but the connection of what you have to be something better, giving real-time results (and more profit!).

Why now! Presently we are reasonably quiet, if your on furlough at the time of writing this with the sun out great but people in print sales and production should not be resting, now is the time to get automated, do the things you need to do to be more automated, make that workflow better and be ready. I only heard the term "loud marketing" two weeks ago, but since then I have never stopped hearing it – quarters 3 & 4 of this year are going to be loud as people have been penned in for months and business are keen to burst out and make some money. Loud Marketing is the release of the valve that has us all stuck at home and not doing what we do naturally – socialise. Print needs to be ready, and if you have prepared and made yourself ready you are more able to embrace what is to come, more jobs/work/orders – more of which will be online and more of which will benefit from the automation of some kind even if it is just re-keying in the same data from one system to another (Print 4.0).

We cannot really predict the future, despite some believing that Covid-19 was very likely to happen very few believed or were informed enough about it to make a decision unless you worked in a wet market deep in Wuhan.

Covid-19 has changed the way we work and indeed the Internet, but there are winners and losers as loyalty is transferrable and what we have now is the new normal. Print (Industry) 4.0 / Marketing 4.0; call it what you wish but never has there been a time to be more ready to embrace what is to come when the new normal kicks in.

<h2>Print 4.0</h2>
<p>Print 4.0 I hear you moan, what happened to Print 2.0 and where did Print 3.0 go! When recently asked about Print 4.0, I was taken aback as I really thought the &quot;number.point.oh&quot; thing was an overused marketing fad long lost in history, however using my trusty assistant Ms Google and a few hours of hard work it seems no, we really getting ready for Print 4.0 it is just we may know it as something else entirely!</p>
<p>The previous technology milestones of print were digital (it used to be terrible and unable to provide a solid colour), the rollout of the Internet (remember we had to unplug the phone), the engines that power the processing at Server level (slow loading of pages) not to mention the education and confidence of people using online platforms as which are now more the norm that not (security).</p>
<p>The pandemic has changed us, the Internet has grown up, rapidly within its shadow and we have run to it with gusto and more online ordering of &quot;stuff&quot;, business essentials and lots of face time with various meeting applications. We now know why we have that 200Mb broadband, and it's still not enough. The Internet has changed the way we work, and we are embracing it, life as we once knew it would never be the same – so how does this encompass print and explain Print 4.0?</p>
<p>In essence &quot;Print 4.0&quot; is what we already have. It is just putting it together in a workable logical way for it to do what we want it to do – whatever that may be! It is in essence workflow working correctly to meet both our and our customer expectations with key integration where needed. In 2018 global research company McKinsey stated that 40-50% of machines needed to be replaced in manufacturing in order to keep up in general industry, but in print; presses are needed to be updated as standard as technology advances. Print 4.0 is getting these presses working both together and with other elements in a more integrated fashion. The advantages are huge both time, cost and more importantly, profitability. What we are talking about here is efficiency, joining up the dots to work better, true automation. Print 4.0 is not the new stuff in the process but the connection of what you have to be something better, giving real-time results (and more profit!).</p>
<p>Why now! Presently we are reasonably quiet, if your on furlough at the time of writing this with the sun out great but people in print sales and production should not be resting, now is the time to get automated, do the things you need to do to be more automated, make that workflow better and be ready. I only heard the term &quot;loud marketing&quot; two weeks ago, but since then I have never stopped hearing it – quarters 3 &amp; 4 of this year are going to be loud as people have been penned in for months and business are keen to burst out and make some money. Loud Marketing is the release of the valve that has us all stuck at home and not doing what we do naturally – socialise. Print needs to be ready, and if you have prepared and made yourself ready you are more able to embrace what is to come, more jobs/work/orders – more of which will be online and more of which will benefit from the automation of some kind even if it is just re-keying in the same data from one system to another (Print 4.0).</p>
<p>We cannot really predict the future, despite some believing that Covid-19 was very likely to happen very few believed or were informed enough about it to make a decision unless you worked in a wet market deep in Wuhan.</p>
<p>Covid-19 has changed the way we work and indeed the Internet, but there are winners and losers as loyalty is transferrable and what we have now is the new normal. Print (Industry) 4.0 / Marketing 4.0; call it what you wish but never has there been a time to be more ready to embrace what is to come when the new normal kicks in.</p>


Print 4.0

## The Race is About to Begin!

When we heard the news on Covid-19 far away in China, not many of us thought about implications it may bring in only a month or so to our shores. Now, the stock markets have plummeted, the shops are struggling with demand. The bars, cinemas, art galleries, pubs, theatres, restaurants are closed and the events, whether social or business, are postponed or cancelled. The sky is blue (today at least) and, at least where I live, for the first time in a decade, there are no signs of air traffic. I had two instances like this before in my life. One after 11/09/2001 and the second when the ash cloud covered the European continent in 2010. The world has stalled, and we are told it's going to last for quite a while.

Since last month we have been redrawing our entire growth strategies and more recently, how we can ensure our businesses can indeed survive. We are coming up with the new innovative ideas on how to engage with the potential and current clients while making sure our businesses stay solvent during the current challenging times. Apart from some retail business giants and online retailers, our previous targets seem to be somewhat more challenging. All of that due to the uncertainty at an unprecedented level. Every company I have recently been talking to has stopped or limited to the bare minimum of its marketing spend. Activities are now limited to a survival level.

As at least three-quarters of the population must stay at home, all marketing professionals try to reach out to those who were asked to change their habits. We all are coming up with novel and unconventional ideas on how to grasp a moment of their attention. For the first time in our lives, all marketing communications, including adverts and offers, have to reach people's homes. Outdoor signs, posters have lost their appeal temporarily, and the radio stations listened during the morning and afternoon commutes have lost some of their audience. Instead, we are channelling everything online and stream all the communication to our mobiles and PC's on demand. But what about good old direct marketing. My guess is, it will be soon one of the most relevant channels of communications. Direct mail, ads in the local press and local community bulletins will regain their presence. All smart marketeers will be recycling the very traditional channels of communications to deliver clever new messaging to society before our current situation relaxes and returns to some kind of normality, soon hopefully.

But is this enough? Well, I can argue the case it is not. What we all should be doing is planning for the time post Covid-19. Sooner or later, our world will return to normal. Dust will settle, and the airlines and museums will resume full operations. Cinemas will reopen, and bars will serve food 24hrs. What is most exciting, no-one will stay at home, and everyone will be enjoying their lives spending time out and away from whence they were isolated! If you start planning your marketing activities around that time, you may as well pack your bags now. The critical thing is, as the world resets, and we don't know how much time it takes to reboot, we have to start planning now on how to get back into and win the race once the world's operating system is back up and running. At that point all the shops will need brand new points of sales for their product offers, every pub will have a promotion, each institution will require engaging adverts. All businesses will demand a new set of printing materials with a clever design and engaging positive messaging. Life as we knew it will bounce back!

Contrary to the previous status quo all of us and I mean all of us will have the same starting point, and all of us will have the same chances to win the most significant part of the cake called market share. The future state of your brand depends critically on the next few weeks and your plans and preparation to be active in the race. Start preparing now and let's be ready when the time comes!

<h2>The Race is About to Begin!</h2>
<p>When we heard the news on Covid-19 far away in China, not many of us thought about implications it may bring in only a month or so to our shores. Now, the stock markets have plummeted, the shops are struggling with demand. The bars, cinemas, art galleries, pubs, theatres, restaurants are closed and the events, whether social or business, are postponed or cancelled. The sky is blue (today at least) and, at least where I live, for the first time in a decade, there are no signs of air traffic. I had two instances like this before in my life. One after 11/09/2001 and the second when the ash cloud covered the European continent in 2010. The world has stalled, and we are told it's going to last for quite a while.</p>
<p>Since last month we have been redrawing our entire growth strategies and more recently, how we can ensure our businesses can indeed survive. We are coming up with the new innovative ideas on how to engage with the potential and current clients while making sure our businesses stay solvent during the current challenging times. Apart from some retail business giants and online retailers, our previous targets seem to be somewhat more challenging. All of that due to the uncertainty at an unprecedented level. Every company I have recently been talking to has stopped or limited to the bare minimum of its marketing spend. Activities are now limited to a survival level.</p>
<p>As at least three-quarters of the population must stay at home, all marketing professionals try to reach out to those who were asked to change their habits. We all are coming up with novel and unconventional ideas on how to grasp a moment of their attention. For the first time in our lives, all marketing communications, including adverts and offers, have to reach people's homes. Outdoor signs, posters have lost their appeal temporarily, and the radio stations listened during the morning and afternoon commutes have lost some of their audience. Instead, we are channelling everything online and stream all the communication to our mobiles and PC's on demand. But what about good old direct marketing. My guess is, it will be soon one of the most relevant channels of communications. Direct mail, ads in the local press and local community bulletins will regain their presence. All smart marketeers will be recycling the very traditional channels of communications to deliver clever new messaging to society before our current situation relaxes and returns to some kind of normality, soon hopefully.</p>
<p>But is this enough? Well, I can argue the case it is not. What we all should be doing is planning for the time post Covid-19. Sooner or later, our world will return to normal. Dust will settle, and the airlines and museums will resume full operations. Cinemas will reopen, and bars will serve food 24hrs. What is most exciting, no-one will stay at home, and everyone will be enjoying their lives spending time out and away from whence they were isolated! If you start planning your marketing activities around that time, you may as well pack your bags now. The critical thing is, as the world resets, and we don't know how much time it takes to reboot, we have to start planning now on how to get back into and win the race once the world's operating system is back up and running. At that point all the shops will need brand new points of sales for their product offers, every pub will have a promotion, each institution will require engaging adverts. All businesses will demand a new set of printing materials with a clever design and engaging positive messaging. Life as we knew it will bounce back!</p>
<p>Contrary to the previous status quo all of us and I mean all of us will have the same starting point, and all of us will have the same chances to win the most significant part of the cake called market share. The future state of your brand depends critically on the next few weeks and your plans and preparation to be active in the race. Start preparing now and let's be ready when the time comes!</p>


The Race is About to Begin!

## The Inevitable is Here

When it comes to Web-to-Print, it's certainly easier to say 'no, not right now' joining those sitting on the fence, **determined only to invest in it, when the opportunity arises; usually due to client demands**. So, for those who can feel the proverbial splinters poking them in the backside, or for those that are waiting for the splinters… I'd suggest it's time to climb down off that fence! Experience shows that trying to play catch up or taking a knee jerk approach to a customer's request for Web-to-Print, **does not produce an effective outcome, for either you, or your client**.

**Vpress are well versed in rapid turnaround customer deployments and projects**, and what we have noticed is that there are often several areas that **reveal gaps in the project thought process**. These typically fall into the categories of lack of forethought, poor technical qualification of the customer and a lack of understanding of the 'brand's' real needs. Beware, if executed badly, these could jeopardise the long term returns possible, when using a Web-to-Print platform to secure a customer.

## Be honest with yourself:

If you're still deciding on whether to invest in Web-to-Print, then you need should be considering the following questions:

1. **Can we afford to risk losing a customer** to a competitor, already offering Web-to-Print?
2. Am I already having **conversations with customers** about the benefits of Web-to-Print?
3. **Do my customer focused team members understand Web-to-Print** and how to communicate its relevance and benefits to customers?
4. Have we considered the **other areas in the business that would benefit from the introduction of Web-to-Print**, or the automation it can provide to the business?
5. Can I **accept and justify that the financial investment** needed to integrate two or more technologies, in order to give me a tangible Return on Investment (ROI)?

After honesty, comes truth.

### Customers

Print companies often seem to be shy when it comes to educating customers on the "**art of the possible**". Think about it, having a discussion with a customer about how you can help them reduce production and management costs by implementing Web-to-Print, **positions you as a valuable partner**. Web-to-Print can also **help your customers increase revenue through personalised and targeted marketing**, further increasing your value to their business.

**If you're not having these conversations with your customers, chances are one of your competitors will be**, so don't lose out.

### Your Business

Customers aren't the only ones to benefit from Web-to-Print, the automation it can trigger reduces the need for manual intervention across the print production process, by improving efficiency and reducing time and cost. This provides a very tangible ROI to your business and can increase margins significantly, or seen another way, ensures you remain competitively priced, whilst still retaining healthy margins.

The key to maximising these returns is integration by linking into internal systems, such as MIS and production workflows. Although achieving this is subject to a robust planning phase, involving a thorough evaluation of your business processes, repetitive manual tasks and associated areas for improvement; the returns can be staggering.

### Planning is Imperative

Don't be misled into thinking that a Web-to-Print platform is only suited to large and multinational customers. **Web-to-Print can be suitable for companies of any size**. Remember, **the more customers manage their data through an online shopping/procurement platform; the more likely you will be in securing their long-term business** and increasing your profits.

Web-to-Print enables businesses to **eliminate many of the 'grey' areas associated with manual/silo based processes**, which often leak cost savings made in other areas, so look carefully and don't ignore them just because you don't currently account for them.

**If you plan correctly, even a 'no' response from a customer can offer a positive outcome**. Taking a more holistic view of your technical infrastructure in relation to the many previously unconsidered aspects of your business, is a valuable exercise. **Very few companies just decide on a random Wednesday to link together every system and tool within their organisation**, they have spent time analysing the cost savings and are making a sound business decision to employ Web-to-Print.

### Speak to people!

Get out and about and **speak to people who have successfully migrated from more traditional methods to Web-to-Print**. If you are investing in an MIS, speak to the MIS providers' customers to find out how well the installation really went. If you already have an MIS, or a more home-grown system (of sorts), ask for guidance from the manufacturer and ask to speak with their customers too. There is no better reference, than one from those who have experienced the process first-hand.

**It's also useful to start talking to your customers**. Look at the systems they use, do they use an intranet, or an internal system, such as SAP, Oracle etc? Maybe they are using something more home-grown? Will they allow a Web-to-Print platform to link with their system? Do they acknowledge the benefits this would give them, in terms of time and costs savings, as well as eliminating uncontrolled stock, maverick spend and error?

## In summary:

Having examined all these aspects, you should now have a more solid argument for implementing Web-to-Print within your organisation, for the benefit of your customers and your business. In addition to efficiency gains and cost savings, you'll add a new robust service line to drive revenue increase and you will be tying customers in longer term.

**Still a little confused or maybe you would like to find out more?** Feel free to give our professional services team a call on **\+44 (0)1242 246970 or** [**book a demonstration**](/request-a-demonstration)**.**

<h2>The Inevitable is Here</h2>
<p>When it comes to Web-to-Print, it's certainly easier to say 'no, not right now' joining those sitting on the fence, <strong>determined only to invest in it, when the opportunity arises; usually due to client demands</strong>. So, for those who can feel the proverbial splinters poking them in the backside, or for those that are waiting for the splinters… I'd suggest it's time to climb down off that fence! Experience shows that trying to play catch up or taking a knee jerk approach to a customer's request for Web-to-Print, <strong>does not produce an effective outcome, for either you, or your client</strong>.</p>
<p><strong>Vpress are well versed in rapid turnaround customer deployments and projects</strong>, and what we have noticed is that there are often several areas that <strong>reveal gaps in the project thought process</strong>. These typically fall into the categories of lack of forethought, poor technical qualification of the customer and a lack of understanding of the 'brand's' real needs. Beware, if executed badly, these could jeopardise the long term returns possible, when using a Web-to-Print platform to secure a customer.</p>
<h2>Be honest with yourself:</h2>
<p>If you're still deciding on whether to invest in Web-to-Print, then you need should be considering the following questions:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Can we afford to risk losing a customer</strong> to a competitor, already offering Web-to-Print?</li>
<li>Am I already having <strong>conversations with customers</strong> about the benefits of Web-to-Print?</li>
<li><strong>Do my customer focused team members understand Web-to-Print</strong> and how to communicate its relevance and benefits to customers?</li>
<li>Have we considered the <strong>other areas in the business that would benefit from the introduction of Web-to-Print</strong>, or the automation it can provide to the business?</li>
<li>Can I <strong>accept and justify that the financial investment</strong> needed to integrate two or more technologies, in order to give me a tangible Return on Investment (ROI)?</li>
</ol>
<p>After honesty, comes truth.</p>
<h3>Customers</h3>
<p>Print companies often seem to be shy when it comes to educating customers on the &quot;<strong>art of the possible</strong>&quot;. Think about it, having a discussion with a customer about how you can help them reduce production and management costs by implementing Web-to-Print, <strong>positions you as a valuable partner</strong>. Web-to-Print can also <strong>help your customers increase revenue through personalised and targeted marketing</strong>, further increasing your value to their business.</p>
<p><strong>If you're not having these conversations with your customers, chances are one of your competitors will be</strong>, so don't lose out.</p>
<h3>Your Business</h3>
<p>Customers aren't the only ones to benefit from Web-to-Print, the automation it can trigger reduces the need for manual intervention across the print production process, by improving efficiency and reducing time and cost. This provides a very tangible ROI to your business and can increase margins significantly, or seen another way, ensures you remain competitively priced, whilst still retaining healthy margins.</p>
<p>The key to maximising these returns is integration by linking into internal systems, such as MIS and production workflows. Although achieving this is subject to a robust planning phase, involving a thorough evaluation of your business processes, repetitive manual tasks and associated areas for improvement; the returns can be staggering.</p>
<h3>Planning is Imperative</h3>
<p>Don't be misled into thinking that a Web-to-Print platform is only suited to large and multinational customers. <strong>Web-to-Print can be suitable for companies of any size</strong>. Remember, <strong>the more customers manage their data through an online shopping/procurement platform; the more likely you will be in securing their long-term business</strong> and increasing your profits.</p>
<p>Web-to-Print enables businesses to <strong>eliminate many of the 'grey' areas associated with manual/silo based processes</strong>, which often leak cost savings made in other areas, so look carefully and don't ignore them just because you don't currently account for them.</p>
<p><strong>If you plan correctly, even a 'no' response from a customer can offer a positive outcome</strong>. Taking a more holistic view of your technical infrastructure in relation to the many previously unconsidered aspects of your business, is a valuable exercise. <strong>Very few companies just decide on a random Wednesday to link together every system and tool within their organisation</strong>, they have spent time analysing the cost savings and are making a sound business decision to employ Web-to-Print.</p>
<h3>Speak to people!</h3>
<p>Get out and about and <strong>speak to people who have successfully migrated from more traditional methods to Web-to-Print</strong>. If you are investing in an MIS, speak to the MIS providers' customers to find out how well the installation really went. If you already have an MIS, or a more home-grown system (of sorts), ask for guidance from the manufacturer and ask to speak with their customers too. There is no better reference, than one from those who have experienced the process first-hand.</p>
<p><strong>It's also useful to start talking to your customers</strong>. Look at the systems they use, do they use an intranet, or an internal system, such as SAP, Oracle etc? Maybe they are using something more home-grown? Will they allow a Web-to-Print platform to link with their system? Do they acknowledge the benefits this would give them, in terms of time and costs savings, as well as eliminating uncontrolled stock, maverick spend and error?</p>
<h2>In summary:</h2>
<p>Having examined all these aspects, you should now have a more solid argument for implementing Web-to-Print within your organisation, for the benefit of your customers and your business. In addition to efficiency gains and cost savings, you'll add a new robust service line to drive revenue increase and you will be tying customers in longer term.</p>
<p><strong>Still a little confused or maybe you would like to find out more?</strong> Feel free to give our professional services team a call on <strong>+44 (0)1242 246970 or</strong> <a href="/request-a-demonstration"><strong>book a demonstration</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>


Ensuring Web-to-Print is a Good Investment for Your Business

# Here's What You Need to Launch it

###### 15 minute Read

Digital Asset Management (DAM) is not just software. It's a way of life. **It's a long-term commitment that is not as daunting as you may first think.** Once you have a DAM strategy and the means in place to implement it, you should start to see the return on your investment.

**The benefits of adopting DAM into your marketing processes cannot be overstated.** It will provide your teams with a way of working that will increase their productivity and reduce their risk of damaging your brand's integrity. With the correct procedures and strategy in place, using a DAM solution will change yours and your team's working life.

There are many theories are out there about **measuring the value of brand recognition and loyalty**. However, no one has ever argued that brand consistency is detrimental to a business's reputation and profitability.

A part of keeping that brand continuity is using the COPE model – **Create Once Publish Everywhere**. Taking this on board for your promotional activity will save your teams a lot of time (and therefore your budget). It means that you have something that is **ready to go across channels**, something you don't have to start again.

Knowing the benefits not only to your team, but across the business, **once you have purchased a solution, the pressure is on to make it work**. You need to have a solid plan in place.

**Having provided DAM functionality to our customers over the last 21 years** including some of the world's biggest brands – we believe we know a thing or two about what the key components of introducing and managing a DAM are and how best to plan your strategy for using it long-term.

If you are reading this blog, you probably want to make sure your DAM solution is working hard for you, or you have decided to purchase one. If you have made that decision – congratulations and welcome to the first day of the rest of your life!

The following points for **introducing a DAM strategy** is useful for the marketing, operations or procurement professional who is a stakeholder in this process.

## Introducing Governance

Your DAM strategy **begins with a leader with a vision**. What are you looking to achieve? **What are your measures of success for this project?**

The most important thing to communicate is that **the DAM is not a dumping ground**. It should not be left to just one person to mop up after everyone else either. What if that person were to leave or go on holiday taking all their knowledge and experience of process, taxonomy and future roadmap with them? How is the DAM going to survive without them? – **it cannot live with one person, as it will die there too.**

### **An Eight Point Plan to Get You Started**

1. **Why** are you introducing a DAM solution?
2. **How** will it work?
3. **Who is going to manage the solution on a strategic level as well as a day to day basis** – who is ultimately responsible for the success of this project?
4. Who is going to **audit, direct and guide** how the solution is used?
5. How is that direction translate into **regular communication with service users**?
6. What are the **metrics** you will use to report its success?
7. Who are the service users and what are their **expectations?**
8. What **accountability** is there in place for circumventing use of the DAM?

Your governance plan is a living and breathing being, it is going to change with regulation, with technological advances and changes to and within your organisation. **It needs someone to anticipate and move with those changes to your internal and external environment.**

Once you have the answers, it's time to get into the fun nitty gritty details. **Assets are also not just images** – this could mean documents, files, videos – anything you may store on your computer.

For some, this may be within their existing Web-to-Print solution.

## Who is Touching Your Things?

**If you have anyone 'touching' your digital assets, you need to know what is happening to them**.

1. Who has access to them?
2. Who is using them?
3. Who should be using them?
4. Who oversees keeping asset banks up to date?

You're in a very visible position when you have teams of people **relying on the content being up to date and easy to source.** In a content driven world it's not enough to make the collateral to shove into a folder and forget about.

Brand management can be a tricky job – and in larger companies it's a full-time job. If you don't have a team of people, whose responsibility it is to manage and maintain these assets then you may have a brand guardianship problem. **With no accountability comes chaos**, **and the possibility of using out of date campaign content or embargoed images or even worse – old branding!**

When you have a DAM and an effective strategy in place, you will know the answers to all the above, because it is there for you to see.

## Workflows Working for You

Getting a handle of the right DAM workflows is something you need to be thinking about when engaging a supplier. It's too late once the sale is made. No one knows your business, your teams like you and you know how these things need to run. However, **the right supplier can use the benefit of their experience to inform and advise** so you can make the most of their experience.

**With the right workflow in place, you can streamline and automate processes and increase communication between team members.** Unfortunately, with the wrong workflow in place, you can end up with something convoluted, something that is easy to make mistakes hurt your team as they descend into a blame game as things go wrong.

The following workflows that you need to consider are as follows:

### **Set up, Taxonomy & Administration**

We talked about governance because it one of the first things that you need to think of. **Now you have your team selected, knowing who is going to do what takes time and consideration.** How the implementation starts will inform how you work with your DAM for a very long time – no pressure there!

**One of the major problems that organisations experience before implementing a DAM is the duplication of effort** – taking time to find assets for content – or recreating content for campaigns that is already there. The waste of time, resource and money for an organisation spent on inefficient processes for searching and creating assets cannot be underestimated.

**The responsible person for your new DAM solution may not be the person who uses the DAM in day-to-day operations,** so it is important that they understand how these users will source and amend their images. This is where a **clear taxonomy structure** is the to the success of this project. **Assets need to be laid out in a clear and logical fashion**. There is no point in having an image bank for example set out for print campaigns with imagery that is more appropriate for a digital campaign. Searching through a clear folder structure is the way that most users would search – specially to find inspiration. This highlights why taxonomy is so important – it is the very beginning of the user's experience of the DAM. The easier it is to use for them, the more they will use it.

**Your DAM administrator will need to think about who needs what and how they are going to access these items**. Another good way to source imagery is to use meta tags: you can use the search terms for the type of campaign you want by channel, but also by the sort of content you want to see. It can take a little time to get the assets all searchable in a uniform way, but once you find out how much quicker it is to search for and create campaigns with much less effort than before, the little bit of extra time for the brand guardians to set up that little bit of administration will save time across teams company-wide.

### **Approval and Permissions**

Finding and creating assets isn't where the story begins and ends – **there's still the sign off process to consider.** Depending on the organisation, it could be any range of people in any order who is involved in signing off material.

**For organisations that are heavily regulated – for example the FCA or the company's legal team, it's more than checking the creative and messaging.**

Being able to create a simple workflow where all stakeholders in the creative and sign off process **can be as simple as inputting an email address when it is time for your collateral to make it to the sign off process**. It shows why our DAM functionality isn't just reserved for marketing. If integrated with the company procurement software, briefs can be submitted, artwork created, approval given to then make its merry way to the customer.

Using a solution such as this demonstrates that not everyone can be the same. **Not everybody should have or need the same permissions**. Some users may be allowed to access certain assets – like internal company documents and others will need access to the full marketing suite and authority to sign off on the cost before purchase. **Identifying these needs at the time of set up will make it much easier to communicate company wide what expectations are for using this solution and help to make the implementation smoother as you're sure at the time of introducing the DAM solution to all stakeholders.**

### **The Lifecycle of Assets**

You can perhaps see now why this can be a **full-time job for more than one person** for a large international organisation. The **DAM is a single point of truth to thousands of people**. To effectively put across a global brand and attractive messaging for each market, marketing content needs to be created faster than most teams can make it. This is why COPE (Create Once Publish Everywhere) can be an essential part of many organisation's DAM Strategy.

Sometimes, it is **appropriate to reuse assets** over a longer period. This could be in the case of different countries or market segments. It is very helpful if it is possible to be able to do that, but all good things must come to an end. This could be due to new campaigns, a rebranding or licences for images expiring.

If your brand guardian set up and implemented the solution in a clear and usable way, then this is a procedure that should not be too painful. Remember the section about taxonomy and metadata above?

## Ring Fencing Your Assets – More About Security

As decentralised teams access assets and collate materials, it makes sense to have your DAM in one place. **Your teams have reduced the risk of using out of date material or straying away from brand guidelines.**

But what about the **security of the central DAM solution**?

You need to ask your suppler **how are your assets kept safe**? It might sound counter intuitive from everything we all know not to keep everything in one place.

**Your provider will be able to explain to you the levels of security** that they have to keep your business and your data safe. Coreprint is 100% cloud based which is the most secure way of operating software in this instance. This could involve explaining the security protocols in place for hosting, GDPR implications, disaster and recovery procedures, etc.

A good supplier will be able to answer any questions that you may have. They will also bring your attention to anything that you may have missed.

**There are key questions you need to ask at the time of interacting with your sales contact. As the key person responsible for the DAM, you will need to have this information and possible contingency plans in place.** It needs to be relevant to their organisation about data security and recovery procedures. While your IT department will be a key stakeholder in the overall implementation and management of your DAM solution.

## Conclusion

**We can't tell you what your full DAM strategy should be** – only you know your business and how it works. Understanding your internal and external customers as well as key stakeholders in the process will help you to create something that is used as you envisioned.

If you are **looking for a solution** that helps you to integrate your marketing collateral in with your ERP/CRM solution – contact us to find out more.

Enjoyed this post? Make sure that you **keep up to date** with our latest features and news and **sign up to our newsletter**.

#### More Resources from Vpress:

* Your Web-to-Print Guide
* Choosing a Web-to-Print supplier
* Why Should Printers Give a DAM about Digital Asset Management?

<h1>Here's What You Need to Launch it</h1>
<h6>15 minute Read</h6>
<p>Digital Asset Management (DAM) is not just software. It's a way of life. <strong>It's a long-term commitment that is not as daunting as you may first think.</strong> Once you have a DAM strategy and the means in place to implement it, you should start to see the return on your investment.</p>
<p><strong>The benefits of adopting DAM into your marketing processes cannot be overstated.</strong> It will provide your teams with a way of working that will increase their productivity and reduce their risk of damaging your brand's integrity. With the correct procedures and strategy in place, using a DAM solution will change yours and your team's working life.</p>
<p>There are many theories are out there about <strong>measuring the value of brand recognition and loyalty</strong>. However, no one has ever argued that brand consistency is detrimental to a business's reputation and profitability.</p>
<p>A part of keeping that brand continuity is using the COPE model – <strong>Create Once Publish Everywhere</strong>. Taking this on board for your promotional activity will save your teams a lot of time (and therefore your budget). It means that you have something that is <strong>ready to go across channels</strong>, something you don't have to start again.</p>
<p>Knowing the benefits not only to your team, but across the business, <strong>once you have purchased a solution, the pressure is on to make it work</strong>. You need to have a solid plan in place.</p>
<p><strong>Having provided DAM functionality to our customers over the last 21 years</strong> including some of the world's biggest brands – we believe we know a thing or two about what the key components of introducing and managing a DAM are and how best to plan your strategy for using it long-term.</p>
<p>If you are reading this blog, you probably want to make sure your DAM solution is working hard for you, or you have decided to purchase one. If you have made that decision – congratulations and welcome to the first day of the rest of your life!</p>
<p>The following points for <strong>introducing a DAM strategy</strong> is useful for the marketing, operations or procurement professional who is a stakeholder in this process.</p>
<h2>Introducing Governance</h2>
<p>Your DAM strategy <strong>begins with a leader with a vision</strong>. What are you looking to achieve? <strong>What are your measures of success for this project?</strong></p>
<p>The most important thing to communicate is that <strong>the DAM is not a dumping ground</strong>. It should not be left to just one person to mop up after everyone else either. What if that person were to leave or go on holiday taking all their knowledge and experience of process, taxonomy and future roadmap with them? How is the DAM going to survive without them? – <strong>it cannot live with one person, as it will die there too.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>An Eight Point Plan to Get You Started</strong></h3>
<ol>
<li><strong>Why</strong> are you introducing a DAM solution?</li>
<li><strong>How</strong> will it work?</li>
<li><strong>Who is going to manage the solution on a strategic level as well as a day to day basis</strong> – who is ultimately responsible for the success of this project?</li>
<li>Who is going to <strong>audit, direct and guide</strong> how the solution is used?</li>
<li>How is that direction translate into <strong>regular communication with service users</strong>?</li>
<li>What are the <strong>metrics</strong> you will use to report its success?</li>
<li>Who are the service users and what are their <strong>expectations?</strong></li>
<li>What <strong>accountability</strong> is there in place for circumventing use of the DAM?</li>
</ol>
<p>Your governance plan is a living and breathing being, it is going to change with regulation, with technological advances and changes to and within your organisation. <strong>It needs someone to anticipate and move with those changes to your internal and external environment.</strong></p>
<p>Once you have the answers, it's time to get into the fun nitty gritty details. <strong>Assets are also not just images</strong> – this could mean documents, files, videos – anything you may store on your computer.</p>
<p>For some, this may be within their existing Web-to-Print solution.</p>
<h2>Who is Touching Your Things?</h2>
<p><strong>If you have anyone 'touching' your digital assets, you need to know what is happening to them</strong>.</p>
<ol>
<li>Who has access to them?</li>
<li>Who is using them?</li>
<li>Who should be using them?</li>
<li>Who oversees keeping asset banks up to date?</li>
</ol>
<p>You're in a very visible position when you have teams of people <strong>relying on the content being up to date and easy to source.</strong> In a content driven world it's not enough to make the collateral to shove into a folder and forget about.</p>
<p>Brand management can be a tricky job – and in larger companies it's a full-time job. If you don't have a team of people, whose responsibility it is to manage and maintain these assets then you may have a brand guardianship problem. <strong>With no accountability comes chaos</strong>, <strong>and the possibility of using out of date campaign content or embargoed images or even worse – old branding!</strong></p>
<p>When you have a DAM and an effective strategy in place, you will know the answers to all the above, because it is there for you to see.</p>
<h2>Workflows Working for You</h2>
<p>Getting a handle of the right DAM workflows is something you need to be thinking about when engaging a supplier. It's too late once the sale is made. No one knows your business, your teams like you and you know how these things need to run. However, <strong>the right supplier can use the benefit of their experience to inform and advise</strong> so you can make the most of their experience.</p>
<p><strong>With the right workflow in place, you can streamline and automate processes and increase communication between team members.</strong> Unfortunately, with the wrong workflow in place, you can end up with something convoluted, something that is easy to make mistakes hurt your team as they descend into a blame game as things go wrong.</p>
<p>The following workflows that you need to consider are as follows:</p>
<h3><strong>Set up, Taxonomy &amp; Administration</strong></h3>
<p>We talked about governance because it one of the first things that you need to think of. <strong>Now you have your team selected, knowing who is going to do what takes time and consideration.</strong> How the implementation starts will inform how you work with your DAM for a very long time – no pressure there!</p>
<p><strong>One of the major problems that organisations experience before implementing a DAM is the duplication of effort</strong> – taking time to find assets for content – or recreating content for campaigns that is already there. The waste of time, resource and money for an organisation spent on inefficient processes for searching and creating assets cannot be underestimated.</p>
<p><strong>The responsible person for your new DAM solution may not be the person who uses the DAM in day-to-day operations,</strong> so it is important that they understand how these users will source and amend their images. This is where a <strong>clear taxonomy structure</strong> is the to the success of this project. <strong>Assets need to be laid out in a clear and logical fashion</strong>. There is no point in having an image bank for example set out for print campaigns with imagery that is more appropriate for a digital campaign. Searching through a clear folder structure is the way that most users would search – specially to find inspiration. This highlights why taxonomy is so important – it is the very beginning of the user's experience of the DAM. The easier it is to use for them, the more they will use it.</p>
<p><strong>Your DAM administrator will need to think about who needs what and how they are going to access these items</strong>. Another good way to source imagery is to use meta tags: you can use the search terms for the type of campaign you want by channel, but also by the sort of content you want to see. It can take a little time to get the assets all searchable in a uniform way, but once you find out how much quicker it is to search for and create campaigns with much less effort than before, the little bit of extra time for the brand guardians to set up that little bit of administration will save time across teams company-wide.</p>
<h3><strong>Approval and Permissions</strong></h3>
<p>Finding and creating assets isn't where the story begins and ends – <strong>there's still the sign off process to consider.</strong> Depending on the organisation, it could be any range of people in any order who is involved in signing off material.</p>
<p><strong>For organisations that are heavily regulated – for example the FCA or the company's legal team, it's more than checking the creative and messaging.</strong></p>
<p>Being able to create a simple workflow where all stakeholders in the creative and sign off process <strong>can be as simple as inputting an email address when it is time for your collateral to make it to the sign off process</strong>. It shows why our DAM functionality isn't just reserved for marketing. If integrated with the company procurement software, briefs can be submitted, artwork created, approval given to then make its merry way to the customer.</p>
<p>Using a solution such as this demonstrates that not everyone can be the same. <strong>Not everybody should have or need the same permissions</strong>. Some users may be allowed to access certain assets – like internal company documents and others will need access to the full marketing suite and authority to sign off on the cost before purchase. <strong>Identifying these needs at the time of set up will make it much easier to communicate company wide what expectations are for using this solution and help to make the implementation smoother as you're sure at the time of introducing the DAM solution to all stakeholders.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>The Lifecycle of Assets</strong></h3>
<p>You can perhaps see now why this can be a <strong>full-time job for more than one person</strong> for a large international organisation. The <strong>DAM is a single point of truth to thousands of people</strong>. To effectively put across a global brand and attractive messaging for each market, marketing content needs to be created faster than most teams can make it. This is why COPE (Create Once Publish Everywhere) can be an essential part of many organisation's DAM Strategy.</p>
<p>Sometimes, it is <strong>appropriate to reuse assets</strong> over a longer period. This could be in the case of different countries or market segments. It is very helpful if it is possible to be able to do that, but all good things must come to an end. This could be due to new campaigns, a rebranding or licences for images expiring.</p>
<p>If your brand guardian set up and implemented the solution in a clear and usable way, then this is a procedure that should not be too painful. Remember the section about taxonomy and metadata above?</p>
<h2>Ring Fencing Your Assets – More About Security</h2>
<p>As decentralised teams access assets and collate materials, it makes sense to have your DAM in one place. <strong>Your teams have reduced the risk of using out of date material or straying away from brand guidelines.</strong></p>
<p>But what about the <strong>security of the central DAM solution</strong>?</p>
<p>You need to ask your suppler <strong>how are your assets kept safe</strong>? It might sound counter intuitive from everything we all know not to keep everything in one place.</p>
<p><strong>Your provider will be able to explain to you the levels of security</strong> that they have to keep your business and your data safe. Coreprint is 100% cloud based which is the most secure way of operating software in this instance. This could involve explaining the security protocols in place for hosting, GDPR implications, disaster and recovery procedures, etc.</p>
<p>A good supplier will be able to answer any questions that you may have. They will also bring your attention to anything that you may have missed.</p>
<p><strong>There are key questions you need to ask at the time of interacting with your sales contact. As the key person responsible for the DAM, you will need to have this information and possible contingency plans in place.</strong> It needs to be relevant to their organisation about data security and recovery procedures. While your IT department will be a key stakeholder in the overall implementation and management of your DAM solution.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p><strong>We can't tell you what your full DAM strategy should be</strong> – only you know your business and how it works. Understanding your internal and external customers as well as key stakeholders in the process will help you to create something that is used as you envisioned.</p>
<p>If you are <strong>looking for a solution</strong> that helps you to integrate your marketing collateral in with your ERP/CRM solution – contact us to find out more.</p>
<p>Enjoyed this post? Make sure that you <strong>keep up to date</strong> with our latest features and news and <strong>sign up to our newsletter</strong>.</p>
<h4>More Resources from Vpress:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Your Web-to-Print Guide</li>
<li>Choosing a Web-to-Print supplier</li>
<li>Why Should Printers Give a DAM about Digital Asset Management?</li>
</ul>


Yes, You Need a DAM Strategy... Here's What You Need to Launch it

## Digital Asset Management Strategy: Here's What You Need to Launch it

Digital Asset Management (DAM) is not just software. It's a way of life. **It's a long-term commitment that is not as daunting as you may first think.** Once you have a DAM strategy and the means in place to implement it, you should start to see the return on your investment.

**The benefits of adopting DAM into your marketing processes cannot be overstated.** It will provide your teams with a way of working that will increase their productivity and reduce their risk of damaging your brand's integrity. With the correct procedures and strategy in place, using a DAM solution will change yours and your team's working life.

There are many theories are out there about **measuring the value of brand recognition and loyalty**. However, no one has ever argued that brand consistency is detrimental to a business's reputation and profitability.

A part of keeping that brand continuity is using the COPE model – **Create Once Publish Everywhere**. Taking this on board for your promotional activity will save your teams a lot of time (and therefore your budget). It means that you have something that is **ready to go across channels**, something you don't have to start again.

Knowing the benefits not only to your team, but across the business, **once you have purchased a solution, the pressure is on to make it work**. You need to have a solid plan in place.

**Having provided DAM functionality to our customers over the last 21 years** including some of the world's biggest brands – we believe we know a thing or two about what the key components of introducing and managing a DAM are and how best to plan your strategy for using it long-term.

## Introducing Governance

Your DAM strategy **begins with a leader with a vision**. What are you looking to achieve? **What are your measures of success for this project?**

The most important thing to communicate is that **the DAM is not a dumping ground**. It should not be left to just one person to mop up after everyone else either. What if that person were to leave or go on holiday taking all their knowledge and experience of process, taxonomy and future roadmap with them? How is the DAM going to survive without them? – **it cannot live with one person, as it will die there too.**

### **An Eight Point Plan to Get You Started**

1. **Why** are you introducing a DAM solution?
2. **How** will it work?
3. **Who is going to manage the solution on a strategic level as well as a day to day basis** – who is ultimately responsible for the success of this project?
4. Who is going to **audit, direct and guide** how the solution is used?
5. How is that direction translate into **regular communication with service users**?
6. What are the **metrics** you will use to report its success?
7. Who are the service users and what are their **expectations?**
8. What **accountability** is there in place for circumventing use of the DAM?

Your governance plan is a living and breathing being, it is going to change with regulation, with technological advances and changes to and within your organisation. **It needs someone to anticipate and move with those changes to your internal and external environment.**

## Who is Touching Your Things?

**If you have anyone 'touching' your digital assets, you need to know what is happening to them**.

1. Who has access to them?
2. Who is using them?
3. Who should be using them?
4. Who oversees keeping asset banks up to date?

You're in a very visible position when you have teams of people **relying on the content being up to date and easy to source.** In a content driven world it's not enough to make the collateral to shove into a folder and forget about.

## Workflows Working for You

Getting a handle of the right DAM workflows is something you need to be thinking about when engaging a supplier. It's too late once the sale is made. No one knows your business, your teams like you and you know how these things need to run. However, **the right supplier can use the benefit of their experience to inform and advise** so you can make the most of their experience.

**With the right workflow in place, you can streamline and automate processes and increase communication between team members.** Unfortunately, with the wrong workflow in place, you can end up with something convoluted, something that is easy to make mistakes hurt your team as they descend into a blame game as things go wrong.

## Ring Fencing Your Assets – More About Security

As decentralised teams access assets and collate materials, it makes sense to have your DAM in one place. **Your teams have reduced the risk of using out of date material or straying away from brand guidelines.**

But what about the **security of the central DAM solution**?

You need to ask your suppler **how are your assets kept safe**? It might sound counter intuitive from everything we all know not to keep everything in one place.

## Conclusion

**We can't tell you what your full DAM strategy should be** – only you know your business and how it works. Understanding your internal and external customers as well as key stakeholders in the process will help you to create something that is used as you envisioned.

If you are **looking for a solution** that helps you to integrate your marketing collateral in with your ERP/CRM solution – contact us to find out more.

<h2>Digital Asset Management Strategy: Here's What You Need to Launch it</h2>
<p>Digital Asset Management (DAM) is not just software. It's a way of life. <strong>It's a long-term commitment that is not as daunting as you may first think.</strong> Once you have a DAM strategy and the means in place to implement it, you should start to see the return on your investment.</p>
<p><strong>The benefits of adopting DAM into your marketing processes cannot be overstated.</strong> It will provide your teams with a way of working that will increase their productivity and reduce their risk of damaging your brand's integrity. With the correct procedures and strategy in place, using a DAM solution will change yours and your team's working life.</p>
<p>There are many theories are out there about <strong>measuring the value of brand recognition and loyalty</strong>. However, no one has ever argued that brand consistency is detrimental to a business's reputation and profitability.</p>
<p>A part of keeping that brand continuity is using the COPE model – <strong>Create Once Publish Everywhere</strong>. Taking this on board for your promotional activity will save your teams a lot of time (and therefore your budget). It means that you have something that is <strong>ready to go across channels</strong>, something you don't have to start again.</p>
<p>Knowing the benefits not only to your team, but across the business, <strong>once you have purchased a solution, the pressure is on to make it work</strong>. You need to have a solid plan in place.</p>
<p><strong>Having provided DAM functionality to our customers over the last 21 years</strong> including some of the world's biggest brands – we believe we know a thing or two about what the key components of introducing and managing a DAM are and how best to plan your strategy for using it long-term.</p>
<h2>Introducing Governance</h2>
<p>Your DAM strategy <strong>begins with a leader with a vision</strong>. What are you looking to achieve? <strong>What are your measures of success for this project?</strong></p>
<p>The most important thing to communicate is that <strong>the DAM is not a dumping ground</strong>. It should not be left to just one person to mop up after everyone else either. What if that person were to leave or go on holiday taking all their knowledge and experience of process, taxonomy and future roadmap with them? How is the DAM going to survive without them? – <strong>it cannot live with one person, as it will die there too.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>An Eight Point Plan to Get You Started</strong></h3>
<ol>
<li><strong>Why</strong> are you introducing a DAM solution?</li>
<li><strong>How</strong> will it work?</li>
<li><strong>Who is going to manage the solution on a strategic level as well as a day to day basis</strong> – who is ultimately responsible for the success of this project?</li>
<li>Who is going to <strong>audit, direct and guide</strong> how the solution is used?</li>
<li>How is that direction translate into <strong>regular communication with service users</strong>?</li>
<li>What are the <strong>metrics</strong> you will use to report its success?</li>
<li>Who are the service users and what are their <strong>expectations?</strong></li>
<li>What <strong>accountability</strong> is there in place for circumventing use of the DAM?</li>
</ol>
<p>Your governance plan is a living and breathing being, it is going to change with regulation, with technological advances and changes to and within your organisation. <strong>It needs someone to anticipate and move with those changes to your internal and external environment.</strong></p>
<h2>Who is Touching Your Things?</h2>
<p><strong>If you have anyone 'touching' your digital assets, you need to know what is happening to them</strong>.</p>
<ol>
<li>Who has access to them?</li>
<li>Who is using them?</li>
<li>Who should be using them?</li>
<li>Who oversees keeping asset banks up to date?</li>
</ol>
<p>You're in a very visible position when you have teams of people <strong>relying on the content being up to date and easy to source.</strong> In a content driven world it's not enough to make the collateral to shove into a folder and forget about.</p>
<h2>Workflows Working for You</h2>
<p>Getting a handle of the right DAM workflows is something you need to be thinking about when engaging a supplier. It's too late once the sale is made. No one knows your business, your teams like you and you know how these things need to run. However, <strong>the right supplier can use the benefit of their experience to inform and advise</strong> so you can make the most of their experience.</p>
<p><strong>With the right workflow in place, you can streamline and automate processes and increase communication between team members.</strong> Unfortunately, with the wrong workflow in place, you can end up with something convoluted, something that is easy to make mistakes hurt your team as they descend into a blame game as things go wrong.</p>
<h2>Ring Fencing Your Assets – More About Security</h2>
<p>As decentralised teams access assets and collate materials, it makes sense to have your DAM in one place. <strong>Your teams have reduced the risk of using out of date material or straying away from brand guidelines.</strong></p>
<p>But what about the <strong>security of the central DAM solution</strong>?</p>
<p>You need to ask your suppler <strong>how are your assets kept safe</strong>? It might sound counter intuitive from everything we all know not to keep everything in one place.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p><strong>We can't tell you what your full DAM strategy should be</strong> – only you know your business and how it works. Understanding your internal and external customers as well as key stakeholders in the process will help you to create something that is used as you envisioned.</p>
<p>If you are <strong>looking for a solution</strong> that helps you to integrate your marketing collateral in with your ERP/CRM solution – contact us to find out more.</p>


Digital Asset Management Strategy - Here's What You Need to Launch it

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