Let’s be honest: if you’re running a print business today, your "to-do" list probably looks a lot different than it did five years ago. It’s no longer just about the "ink on paper". Today, you’re part logistics coordinator, part brand guardian, and part IT consultant.

The market is shifting. While traditional print volumes in some sectors are stabilising, the expectations around how that print is ordered, managed, and delivered have skyrocketed. If you find yourself stuck in a loop of quoting individual jobs and fighting over pennies on a spreadsheet, you’re in the "Transactional Trap".

The good news? There’s a way out, and it’s built on two pillars: [the right web to print infrastructure](/resources/web-to-print-guide "Web to Print Guide") and a consultative approach to selling.

## The Shift from Commodity to Consultant

In the old days, a sales call was about turnaround times and price lists. Today, that’s a quick way to get ghosted. Corporate clients-especially those with multiple locations or complex marketing needs-aren’t looking for a printer; they’re looking for a way to claw back time.

Recent research from **Printing United (2025)** shows that over **70% of print service providers** have already diversified into creative, mailing, and analytics services to stay relevant. Why? Because when you solve a business problem, you stop being a line item and start being a partner.

*Mike Newman* (<a href="https://thespc.net/" title="theSPC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">theSPC</a>) puts it perfectly:

> The minute you stop asking 'What’s the job?' and start asking 'What business problem are you trying to solve?', your role changes instantly. You aren't just selling a brochure; you’re selling a solution to a marketing team that’s drowning in manual admin.

## Why Web to Print is Your Secret Retention Tool

We won’t bore you with a technical definition, but in a B2B context, web to print is much more than an "online shop". It’s a bridge between your production floor and your client’s internal workflow.

For corporate clients, a dedicated portal provides:

* **Brand Security**: No more "rogue" flyers with the wrong logo or off-brand colours.
* **Decentralised Ordering**: Regional managers can order what they need, while head office keeps the keys to the budget.
* **Data Visibility**: Real-time reporting on who is spending what, where.

The commercial impact is real. According to **Smithers (2025)**, digital print and the software ecosystems supporting it are growing at a rate that is outpacing traditional methods, largely because they allow for the "mass-customisation" corporate brands now crave.

## The 20% Efficiency Gain: It’s Not Just a Number

It’s often cited that automation can shave up to **20% off operating expenses**, but where does that actually come from? It’s the "hidden" labour:

1. **Zero-Touch Prepress**: When a client uses a template in your web to print portal, the file arrives press-ready. No back-and-forth emails about bleeds or fonts.
2. **Reduced Rework**: Integrated approvals mean the client signs off on exactly what they see on screen.
3. **Automated Quoting**: Studies by **Alliance Insights (2025)** suggest that manual quoting is one of the biggest bottlenecks for PSPs. Moving to a self-service model for standard items frees up your team to focus on high-value, complex projects.

## Tech is the Engine, but You Need a Pilot

We’ve all seen it: a printer invests in a shiny new **web to print** platform, only for it to sit on a shelf because the sales team doesn't know how to pitch it, or the clients don't know how to use it.

This is where "Consultative Selling" comes in. It’s about change management - helping your clients transition from their messy, manual processes to sleek, automated ones.

As *Mike Newman* notes:

> Technology is the engine, but without a skilled navigator, the business never reaches its destination. Implementation is only half the battle; the real win is in cultural adoption-both for your staff and your customers.

## The Bottom Line

The most resilient print businesses in 2026 aren't the ones with the fastest presses. They are the ones that have embedded themselves into their clients' daily lives. By combining a robust [web to print platform](/products/coreprint "Coreprint Web-to-Print Platform") with a consultative mindset, you aren't just selling print-you’re selling efficiency, brand control, and peace of mind.

And in a market this competitive, that’s the most valuable thing you can offer.

Let’s be honest: if you’re running a print business today, your &quot;to-do&quot; list probably looks a lot different than it did five years ago. It’s no longer just about the &quot;ink on paper&quot;. Today, you’re part logistics coordinator, part brand guardian, and part IT consultant.
The market is shifting. While traditional print volumes in some sectors are stabilising, the expectations around how that print is ordered, managed, and delivered have skyrocketed. If you find yourself stuck in a loop of quoting individual jobs and fighting over pennies on a spreadsheet, you’re in the &quot;Transactional Trap&quot;.
The good news? There’s a way out, and it’s built on two pillars: <a href="/resources/web-to-print-guide" title="Web to Print Guide">the right web to print infrastructure</a> and a consultative approach to selling.
<h2>The Shift from Commodity to Consultant</h2>
In the old days, a sales call was about turnaround times and price lists. Today, that’s a quick way to get ghosted. Corporate clients-especially those with multiple locations or complex marketing needs-aren’t looking for a printer; they’re looking for a way to claw back time.
Recent research from Printing United (2025) shows that over 70% of print service providers have already diversified into creative, mailing, and analytics services to stay relevant. Why? Because when you solve a business problem, you stop being a line item and start being a partner.
Mike Newman (<a href="https://thespc.net/" title="theSPC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">theSPC</a>) puts it perfectly:
<blockquote>
The minute you stop asking 'What’s the job?' and start asking 'What business problem are you trying to solve?', your role changes instantly. You aren't just selling a brochure; you’re selling a solution to a marketing team that’s drowning in manual admin.
</blockquote>
<h2>Why Web to Print is Your Secret Retention Tool</h2>
We won’t bore you with a technical definition, but in a B2B context, web to print is much more than an &quot;online shop&quot;. It’s a bridge between your production floor and your client’s internal workflow.
For corporate clients, a dedicated portal provides:
<ul>
<li>Brand Security: No more &quot;rogue&quot; flyers with the wrong logo or off-brand colours.</li>
<li>Decentralised Ordering: Regional managers can order what they need, while head office keeps the keys to the budget.</li>
<li>Data Visibility: Real-time reporting on who is spending what, where.</li>
</ul>
The commercial impact is real. According to Smithers (2025), digital print and the software ecosystems supporting it are growing at a rate that is outpacing traditional methods, largely because they allow for the &quot;mass-customisation&quot; corporate brands now crave.
<h2>The 20% Efficiency Gain: It’s Not Just a Number</h2>
It’s often cited that automation can shave up to 20% off operating expenses, but where does that actually come from? It’s the &quot;hidden&quot; labour:
<ol>
<li>Zero-Touch Prepress: When a client uses a template in your web to print portal, the file arrives press-ready. No back-and-forth emails about bleeds or fonts.</li>
<li>Reduced Rework: Integrated approvals mean the client signs off on exactly what they see on screen.</li>
<li>Automated Quoting: Studies by Alliance Insights (2025) suggest that manual quoting is one of the biggest bottlenecks for PSPs. Moving to a self-service model for standard items frees up your team to focus on high-value, complex projects.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Tech is the Engine, but You Need a Pilot</h2>
We’ve all seen it: a printer invests in a shiny new web to print platform, only for it to sit on a shelf because the sales team doesn't know how to pitch it, or the clients don't know how to use it.
This is where &quot;Consultative Selling&quot; comes in. It’s about change management - helping your clients transition from their messy, manual processes to sleek, automated ones.
As Mike Newman notes:
<blockquote>
Technology is the engine, but without a skilled navigator, the business never reaches its destination. Implementation is only half the battle; the real win is in cultural adoption-both for your staff and your customers.
</blockquote>
<h2>The Bottom Line</h2>
The most resilient print businesses in 2026 aren't the ones with the fastest presses. They are the ones that have embedded themselves into their clients' daily lives. By combining a robust <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Coreprint Web-to-Print Platform">web to print platform</a> with a consultative mindset, you aren't just selling print-you’re selling efficiency, brand control, and peace of mind.
And in a market this competitive, that’s the most valuable thing you can offer.

See how our B2B web-to-print portals can help you win - and keep - higher-value corporate clients. Let’s build a more resilient future for your business.

Ready to escape the transactional trap?

Beyond the Press: Why the Future of Print is a Strategic Partnership

Whether your Web-to-Print (W2P) strategy is scaling your margin or silently eroding it depends on how much manual effort remains hidden behind your storefront. As we move through 2026, the industry has reached a critical tipping point. According to the **PRINTING United Alliance State of the Industry Report 2025**, sales remained flat or declined for 62.8% of commercial printers, creating a landscape where "growth" is no longer guaranteed by volume alone. The answer lies in **Mastering the Fundamentals** of digital automation; by removing the "invisible" manual touches that plague every order, you can turn administrative overhead into pure profit.

The US industry is currently locked in a relentless "profit squeeze." Operating cost inflation-driven by persistent labor shortages and material costs - is currently averaging between **2\.9% and 5.0%**, while market pricing power has lagged behind at just **2\.1%** (**Source**: PRINTING United Alliance / Technavio 2025). This gap means that simply "selling more" is a failing strategy if your cost-per-job remains high. To protect your bottom line in 2026, you must move beyond the "shiny" front-end features of W2P and adopt a platform that automates the entire transition from the customer’s procurement desk to your production floor.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## The $12 Gap: The Hidden Cost of Manual Touchpoints

Every time a staff member has to intervene in a job - whether to fix a file, chase a PO, or re-type a shipping address - your margin evaporates. Industry benchmarks from the **Institute of Finance & Management (IOFM)** and **Resolve Pay** show that manual administrative processing typically costs between **$15 and $16 per order**.

When a workflow is automated through a competent Web-to-Print (W2P) system, those costs drop to as low as **$3 per job**.

**Industry Insight**: Inefficient manual workflows and reworks caused by preventable errors are estimated to drain **10–20% of a print provider’s annual revenue** (**Source**: *IT Strategies / Printing Impressions*). For an agile printer, recovering this "lost" revenue is the fastest way to fund growth without increasing headcount.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## The Integration Trap: Don’t Get Distracted by 'Shiny' Features

Many W2P providers sell on the "wow factor" of hundreds of complex integrations - connecting to obscure marketing tools or niche social platforms. While these sound impressive in a tender, they are often a **Loss of Focus**.

Peripheral integrations often take months to set up, require constant IT maintenance, and deliver tiny marginal wins. The reality is that you are better off picking the most important integrations to your business and not getting distracted by periphery setups that end up taking a huge amount of time to deliver almost zero ROI.

### The Pragmatic Approach

The most profitable printers focus on **Operational Excellence**. They don't try to integrate with *everything*; they integrate perfectly with the vital few systems that drive their business - primarily their MIS, accounting software, and their major clients' procurement systems. A platform that executes these fundamental connections flawlessly 100% of the time is infinitely more profitable than a platform that does 100 "cool" things unreliably.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## Mastering the Fundamentals: Where the Money is Made

Where does the real margin increase happen? It is in the "Production-Ready" journey. Success isn't just about a "good file"; it's about avoiding the "bad job" where prepress must manually marry artwork with fragmented production information.

* **Guaranteed Production-Ready Artwork**: To protect margins, a workflow must enforce rigorous standards before a file ever reaches the press:
  * **Automated Technical Accuracy:** Automatically manage bleeds, color profiles, and font integration to eliminate manual pre-flighting.
  * **Metadata Integration:** Ensure every file carries the exact specifications your equipment needs for immediate processing.
  * **Error Prevention:** Removing these manual "touches" at the start prevents the delays and reprints that erode profit.
* **Procurement Data Accuracy**: Accounts need to know which cost center or PO to invoice against before the job starts. By capturing this data at the source, you eliminate the "chase" at the end of the month.
* **Dispatch Intelligence**: Dispatch teams need to get the product delivered to specific customer requirements without re-typing addresses. Locking this in at the point of order ensures 100% accuracy.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## The Real Cost of the Learning Curve

It is common for printers to hesitate over the complexity of new software. However, as Marco Boer, President of IT Strategies, points out, the risk of waiting is a loss of competitive standing.

> Automation is a key to driving consistency in a manufacturing process... The real cost isn't the investment in equipment; the real cost is the learning curve. The sooner you come up that learning curve, the more competitively advantageous you'll be compared to your peers.

[Marco Boer, President, IT Strategies, Inc.](https://www.it-strategies.com/about "Marco Boer")

By mastering these fundamentals now, you ensure that your business is the one setting the pace in tenders, offering a level of consistency and data-driven reliability that unautomated competitors simply cannot match.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## How Vpress Solves the Efficiency Gap

Vpress doesn't just provide a storefront; we provide an end-to-end "Operational Engine" that [removes the friction from every stage of the job lifecycle](/services/automation "Web to Print Automation").

### 1\. Unified Procurement Data and Automated Invoicing

Manual data entry is the primary cause of billing disputes and delayed payments.

* **The Vpress Solution**: Whether a user enters data directly into **Coreprint** or orders flow through an upstream integration (like a corporate procurement portal), Vpress captures **all** essential procurement information upfront.
* **The Result**: We provide comprehensive reporting and feed this data directly into your back-office MIS or ERP system. This allows for **accurate, automated invoicing** that matches your customer's internal requirements perfectly, ensuring you get paid faster with zero manual reconciliation.

### 2\. Dispatch Accuracy and Logistics Integration

Shipping is often an administrative bottleneck where errors lead to costly reprints or lost packages.

* **The Vpress Solution**: [Coreprint](/products/coreprint "Coreprint Web to Print Platform") captures specific delivery instructions and shipping requirements at the point of order. This data is passed directly to your warehouse or courier systems.
* **The Result**: We eliminate "swivel-chair" data entry, ensuring 100% accuracy in dispatch and providing real-time tracking for the end-user without any intervention from your team.

### 3\. Technically Perfect, Production-Ready Jobs

A "good file" isn't enough; you need a production-ready job.

* **The Vpress Solution**: Coreprint enforces strict print standards at the point of creation. It generates technically perfect artwork - complete with correct bleeds, color spaces, and font embedding - paired with the metadata your press needs.
* **The Result**: Jobs flow directly to the RIP or prepress queue. For more examples of how this transforms operations, you can explore our Success Stories.

### 4\. Scalability for the Agile Printer

The most significant benefit of mastering these fundamentals is the ability to scale.

* **The Vpress Solution**: By automating the high-frequency, low-value tasks that bury your admin team, Vpress allows you to handle 10x the order volume without adding 10x the staff.
* **The Result**: This levels the playing field, allowing smaller, agile printers to target and win massive corporate contracts by proving they have the digital infrastructure to deliver reliably at scale.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## Conclusion: Turning Dollars into Significant Sums

If you get the fundamentals right and scale them with volume, saving just a few dollars in administrative labor per job quickly amounts to significant annual sums. This is capital for growth. By focusing on doing the basics really well, you protect your margin and ensure every order is contributing to a healthy bottom line.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

## About Vpress

With over 25 years of innovation in **print procurement technology**, [Vpress](/about "About Vpress") is a leading provider of **Web-to-Print and workflow automation solutions**. Our technology is designed to deliver measurable commercial returns by improving operational efficiency, enabling sustainable scalability, and strengthening customer retention. At Vpress, partnering with our customers for long-term success isn't just a marketing message - it is the principle that underpins everything we do.

Whether your Web-to-Print (W2P) strategy is scaling your margin or silently eroding it depends on how much manual effort remains hidden behind your storefront. As we move through 2026, the industry has reached a critical tipping point. According to the PRINTING United Alliance State of the Industry Report 2025, sales remained flat or declined for 62.8% of commercial printers, creating a landscape where &quot;growth&quot; is no longer guaranteed by volume alone. The answer lies in Mastering the Fundamentals of digital automation; by removing the &quot;invisible&quot; manual touches that plague every order, you can turn administrative overhead into pure profit.
The US industry is currently locked in a relentless &quot;profit squeeze.&quot; Operating cost inflation-driven by persistent labor shortages and material costs - is currently averaging between 2.9% and 5.0%, while market pricing power has lagged behind at just 2.1% (Source: PRINTING United Alliance / Technavio 2025). This gap means that simply &quot;selling more&quot; is a failing strategy if your cost-per-job remains high. To protect your bottom line in 2026, you must move beyond the &quot;shiny&quot; front-end features of W2P and adopt a platform that automates the entire transition from the customer’s procurement desk to your production floor.
________________________________________
<h2>The $12 Gap: The Hidden Cost of Manual Touchpoints</h2>
Every time a staff member has to intervene in a job - whether to fix a file, chase a PO, or re-type a shipping address - your margin evaporates. Industry benchmarks from the Institute of Finance &amp; Management (IOFM) and Resolve Pay show that manual administrative processing typically costs between $15 and $16 per order.
When a workflow is automated through a competent Web-to-Print (W2P) system, those costs drop to as low as $3 per job.
Industry Insight: Inefficient manual workflows and reworks caused by preventable errors are estimated to drain 10–20% of a print provider’s annual revenue (Source: IT Strategies / Printing Impressions). For an agile printer, recovering this &quot;lost&quot; revenue is the fastest way to fund growth without increasing headcount.
________________________________________
<h2>The Integration Trap: Don’t Get Distracted by 'Shiny' Features</h2>
Many W2P providers sell on the &quot;wow factor&quot; of hundreds of complex integrations - connecting to obscure marketing tools or niche social platforms. While these sound impressive in a tender, they are often a Loss of Focus.
Peripheral integrations often take months to set up, require constant IT maintenance, and deliver tiny marginal wins. The reality is that you are better off picking the most important integrations to your business and not getting distracted by periphery setups that end up taking a huge amount of time to deliver almost zero ROI.
<h3>The Pragmatic Approach</h3>
The most profitable printers focus on Operational Excellence. They don't try to integrate with everything; they integrate perfectly with the vital few systems that drive their business - primarily their MIS, accounting software, and their major clients' procurement systems. A platform that executes these fundamental connections flawlessly 100% of the time is infinitely more profitable than a platform that does 100 &quot;cool&quot; things unreliably.
________________________________________
<h2>Mastering the Fundamentals: Where the Money is Made</h2>
Where does the real margin increase happen? It is in the &quot;Production-Ready&quot; journey. Success isn't just about a &quot;good file&quot;; it's about avoiding the &quot;bad job&quot; where prepress must manually marry artwork with fragmented production information.
<ul>
<li>Guaranteed Production-Ready Artwork: To protect margins, a workflow must enforce rigorous standards before a file ever reaches the press:
<ul>
<li>Automated Technical Accuracy: Automatically manage bleeds, color profiles, and font integration to eliminate manual pre-flighting.</li>
<li>Metadata Integration: Ensure every file carries the exact specifications your equipment needs for immediate processing.</li>
<li>Error Prevention: Removing these manual &quot;touches&quot; at the start prevents the delays and reprints that erode profit.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Procurement Data Accuracy: Accounts need to know which cost center or PO to invoice against before the job starts. By capturing this data at the source, you eliminate the &quot;chase&quot; at the end of the month.</li>
<li>Dispatch Intelligence: Dispatch teams need to get the product delivered to specific customer requirements without re-typing addresses. Locking this in at the point of order ensures 100% accuracy.</li>
</ul>
________________________________________
<h2>The Real Cost of the Learning Curve</h2>
It is common for printers to hesitate over the complexity of new software. However, as Marco Boer, President of IT Strategies, points out, the risk of waiting is a loss of competitive standing.
<blockquote>
Automation is a key to driving consistency in a manufacturing process... The real cost isn't the investment in equipment; the real cost is the learning curve. The sooner you come up that learning curve, the more competitively advantageous you'll be compared to your peers.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.it-strategies.com/about" title="Marco Boer">Marco Boer, President, IT Strategies, Inc.</a>
By mastering these fundamentals now, you ensure that your business is the one setting the pace in tenders, offering a level of consistency and data-driven reliability that unautomated competitors simply cannot match.
________________________________________
<h2>How Vpress Solves the Efficiency Gap</h2>
Vpress doesn't just provide a storefront; we provide an end-to-end &quot;Operational Engine&quot; that <a href="/services/automation" title="Web to Print Automation">removes the friction from every stage of the job lifecycle</a>.
<h3>1. Unified Procurement Data and Automated Invoicing</h3>
Manual data entry is the primary cause of billing disputes and delayed payments.
<ul>
<li>The Vpress Solution: Whether a user enters data directly into Coreprint or orders flow through an upstream integration (like a corporate procurement portal), Vpress captures all essential procurement information upfront.</li>
<li>The Result: We provide comprehensive reporting and feed this data directly into your back-office MIS or ERP system. This allows for accurate, automated invoicing that matches your customer's internal requirements perfectly, ensuring you get paid faster with zero manual reconciliation.</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Dispatch Accuracy and Logistics Integration</h3>
Shipping is often an administrative bottleneck where errors lead to costly reprints or lost packages.
<ul>
<li>The Vpress Solution: <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Coreprint Web to Print Platform">Coreprint</a> captures specific delivery instructions and shipping requirements at the point of order. This data is passed directly to your warehouse or courier systems.</li>
<li>The Result: We eliminate &quot;swivel-chair&quot; data entry, ensuring 100% accuracy in dispatch and providing real-time tracking for the end-user without any intervention from your team.</li>
</ul>
<h3>3. Technically Perfect, Production-Ready Jobs</h3>
A &quot;good file&quot; isn't enough; you need a production-ready job.
<ul>
<li>The Vpress Solution: Coreprint enforces strict print standards at the point of creation. It generates technically perfect artwork - complete with correct bleeds, color spaces, and font embedding - paired with the metadata your press needs.</li>
<li>The Result: Jobs flow directly to the RIP or prepress queue. For more examples of how this transforms operations, you can explore our Success Stories.</li>
</ul>
<h3>4. Scalability for the Agile Printer</h3>
The most significant benefit of mastering these fundamentals is the ability to scale.
<ul>
<li>The Vpress Solution: By automating the high-frequency, low-value tasks that bury your admin team, Vpress allows you to handle 10x the order volume without adding 10x the staff.</li>
<li>The Result: This levels the playing field, allowing smaller, agile printers to target and win massive corporate contracts by proving they have the digital infrastructure to deliver reliably at scale.</li>
</ul>
________________________________________
<h2>Conclusion: Turning Dollars into Significant Sums</h2>
If you get the fundamentals right and scale them with volume, saving just a few dollars in administrative labor per job quickly amounts to significant annual sums. This is capital for growth. By focusing on doing the basics really well, you protect your margin and ensure every order is contributing to a healthy bottom line.
________________________________________
<h2>About Vpress</h2>
With over 25 years of innovation in print procurement technology, <a href="/about" title="About Vpress">Vpress</a> is a leading provider of Web-to-Print and workflow automation solutions. Our technology is designed to deliver measurable commercial returns by improving operational efficiency, enabling sustainable scalability, and strengthening customer retention. At Vpress, partnering with our customers for long-term success isn't just a marketing message - it is the principle that underpins everything we do.

See Vpress in action: We will show you exactly how our data-driven workflow removes touchpoints and secures your margins on every job.

Stop guessing and start growing

The Profit Paradox: Is Your Web-to-Print Strategy Scaling Your Margin - or Eroding It?

In the current e-commerce landscape, standard "off-the-shelf" products are no longer enough to guarantee customer loyalty. Whether you are running a Shopify store, a WordPress site, or a bespoke e-commerce platform, the demand for product personalisation is skyrocketing. Customers want to put their stamp on what they buy, and [businesses](/industries/printers "specialised software for printers") that offer this "sticky" experience see higher engagement and better margins.

However, for many business owners and developers, the path to finding the right web-to-print software to power this experience is paved with expensive mistakes.

A search for "web-to-print solutions" yields hundreds of results. On the surface, they all look similar: a design tool pops up, the customer personalises a template, and an order is placed. But beneath that surface, many web-to-print platforms suffer from fundamental architectural flaws that can damage your brand and throttle your growth.

Before you choose a technology partner to embed into your website, ensure you aren't walking into one of these five common traps.

## 1\. The Fulfillment Trap: Losing Your Customer

One of the most common models in the personalisation market is the "service bureau" approach. These providers offer a plugin that looks like it belongs to you, but they are essentially embedding their shop inside yours.

The danger here is twofold. First, they handle the fulfillment, often giving you a small commission while they take the lion's share of the margin. You lose control over quality, shipping times, and packaging.

Second, and more critically, they capture your customer data. Because they are fulfilling the order, they have the contact details and buying habits of your users. You are effectively handing your hard-earned traffic to a third party who can market directly to them in the future, cutting you out of the loop entirely.

The Fix: Look for technology that is purely software-based, allowing you to route orders to your own production facility or your own trusted network of suppliers.

## 2\. The Shiny Front-End / Broken Back-End

It is easy to be seduced by a slick, shiny user interface. Many plugins offer a decent design experience for the consumer, often relying on standard frameworks like Shopify or WooCommerce to handle the transaction.

However, a "shiny front end" is useless if the back end relies on manual processes. If your website is successful, you need to plan for volume. If every order requires a staff member to manually download a file, check it, rename it, and move it to a hot folder, you have created a bottleneck.

> The challenge with most web-to-print tools isn't the user interface; it's the data. If the software doesn't produce a PDF that is technically perfect for a specific press, the cost of manual intervention will quickly eat every penny of your profit margin.

**Frank Romano**, Professor Emeritus, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and world-renowned printing industry expert.

As soon as order volumes spike, this manual download process fails. You will be left with a backlog of orders, late deliveries, and burned-out staff.

The Fix: True scalability requires workflow automation. The technology must not only capture the design but also automate the transition from "checkout" to "production queue" without human intervention.

## 3\. The 'Not Production-Ready' File

There is a massive difference between a file that looks good on a smartphone screen and a file that is ready for a professional printing press.

Many lightweight personalisation plugins generate basic PDF or image outputs that lack professional print specifications. They may be RGB instead of CMYK, lack bleed areas, or have insufficient resolution.

If you cannot 100% rely on the integrity of the output file, you are putting your production process at risk. You face two expensive outcomes:

The Cost of Correction: Your pre-press team has to fix every file manually.

The Cost of Reputation: You print the file as-is, the customer receives a poor-quality product, and you face refunds and bad reviews.

The Fix: Ensure the software generates production-ready files (e.g. high-res PDFs with variable data support) that are strictly validated before they ever reach your production floor.

## 4\. The Integration Nightmare

You want a professional tool embedded in your site, but you don't want to burn through your budget paying developers to reinvent the wheel.

Some solutions require complex server-side installations, messy third-party licensing, or even a rewrite of your existing system architecture. This leads to weeks of painful testing, deployment issues, and ongoing maintenance headaches.

The Fix: You need a solution designed for seamless integration. Whether via API or a pre-built plugin, the technology should feel like it has always been there, requiring minimal developer time to deploy and zero disruption to your existing hosting environment.

## 5\. The Disjointed User Journey (The 'Pop-Out')

User Experience (UX) is the currency of e-commerce. A major flaw in many legacy personalisation tools is the "iframe" or "pop-out" method, where the user clicks "personalise" and is visibly taken to a different URL or a jarringly different interface to design their product, only to be thrown back to the cart afterward.

This breaks the trust chain. The customer feels like they have left your secure environment. This disjointed experience increases cart abandonment rates as users lose confidence in the security and professional nature of the site.

> In e-commerce, friction is the ultimate conversion killer. If a customer feels they are being handed off to a third-party tool that doesn't look or feel like your brand, they don't see 'personalisation' -  they see a security risk. A seamless, embedded experience is no longer a luxury; it’s a requirement for trust.

**Nielsen Norman** Group (UX Research Insights)

The Fix: The editor must be fully embeddable. It should adopt your CSS, your branding, and keep the user firmly within your domain throughout the entire journey.

## Conclusion: Solving the Puzzle with Vpress Embedded Tech

Finding a web-to-print solution that balances a great user experience with professional-grade production integrity is difficult. Most software providers are either good at the "web" part (pretty interfaces) or the "print" part (production files) - rarely both.

> The most successful print-on-demand businesses are those that own their technology stack and their data. By embedding personalisation directly into your site rather than outsourcing the whole shop, you maintain the relationship with the customer - which is the most valuable asset you have.

**Jennifer Matt**, President of WhatTheyThink.

At Vpress, we built our Embedded Tech specifically to solve these five challenges, utilizing 25 years of hard-learned industry experience. We don't want your customers or your fulfillment margin; we simply provide the world-class [web-to-print platform](/ "professional web-to-print platform") to power your growth.

Our technology allows you to:

* **Own the Workflow**: Connect customer designs directly to your production workflow (or your suppliers) via our [integrated web-to-print solution](/products/coreprint "integrated web-to-print solution") for fully automated fulfillment.
* **Guarantee Quality**: Every design becomes a production-ready file, eliminating manual checks and the "hidden costs" of pre-press errors.
* **Integrate Effortlessly**: With developer-friendly APIs, comprehensive documentation, and a dedicated Shopify plugin, you can be up and running fast.
* **Keep Your Customers**: Our editor embeds seamlessly into your site, offering a white-label experience that keeps the spotlight on your brand, not ours.

In the current e-commerce landscape, standard &quot;off-the-shelf&quot; products are no longer enough to guarantee customer loyalty. Whether you are running a Shopify store, a WordPress site, or a bespoke e-commerce platform, the demand for product personalisation is skyrocketing. Customers want to put their stamp on what they buy, and <a href="/industries/printers" title="specialised software for printers">businesses</a> that offer this &quot;sticky&quot; experience see higher engagement and better margins.
However, for many business owners and developers, the path to finding the right web-to-print software to power this experience is paved with expensive mistakes.
A search for &quot;web-to-print solutions&quot; yields hundreds of results. On the surface, they all look similar: a design tool pops up, the customer personalises a template, and an order is placed. But beneath that surface, many web-to-print platforms suffer from fundamental architectural flaws that can damage your brand and throttle your growth.
Before you choose a technology partner to embed into your website, ensure you aren't walking into one of these five common traps.
<h2>1. The Fulfillment Trap: Losing Your Customer</h2>
One of the most common models in the personalisation market is the &quot;service bureau&quot; approach. These providers offer a plugin that looks like it belongs to you, but they are essentially embedding their shop inside yours.
The danger here is twofold. First, they handle the fulfillment, often giving you a small commission while they take the lion's share of the margin. You lose control over quality, shipping times, and packaging.
Second, and more critically, they capture your customer data. Because they are fulfilling the order, they have the contact details and buying habits of your users. You are effectively handing your hard-earned traffic to a third party who can market directly to them in the future, cutting you out of the loop entirely.
The Fix: Look for technology that is purely software-based, allowing you to route orders to your own production facility or your own trusted network of suppliers.
<h2>2. The Shiny Front-End / Broken Back-End</h2>
It is easy to be seduced by a slick, shiny user interface. Many plugins offer a decent design experience for the consumer, often relying on standard frameworks like Shopify or WooCommerce to handle the transaction.
However, a &quot;shiny front end&quot; is useless if the back end relies on manual processes. If your website is successful, you need to plan for volume. If every order requires a staff member to manually download a file, check it, rename it, and move it to a hot folder, you have created a bottleneck.
<blockquote>
The challenge with most web-to-print tools isn't the user interface; it's the data. If the software doesn't produce a PDF that is technically perfect for a specific press, the cost of manual intervention will quickly eat every penny of your profit margin.
</blockquote>
Frank Romano, Professor Emeritus, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and world-renowned printing industry expert.
As soon as order volumes spike, this manual download process fails. You will be left with a backlog of orders, late deliveries, and burned-out staff.
The Fix: True scalability requires workflow automation. The technology must not only capture the design but also automate the transition from &quot;checkout&quot; to &quot;production queue&quot; without human intervention.
<h2>3. The 'Not Production-Ready' File</h2>
There is a massive difference between a file that looks good on a smartphone screen and a file that is ready for a professional printing press.
Many lightweight personalisation plugins generate basic PDF or image outputs that lack professional print specifications. They may be RGB instead of CMYK, lack bleed areas, or have insufficient resolution.
If you cannot 100% rely on the integrity of the output file, you are putting your production process at risk. You face two expensive outcomes:
The Cost of Correction: Your pre-press team has to fix every file manually.
The Cost of Reputation: You print the file as-is, the customer receives a poor-quality product, and you face refunds and bad reviews.
The Fix: Ensure the software generates production-ready files (e.g. high-res PDFs with variable data support) that are strictly validated before they ever reach your production floor.
<h2>4. The Integration Nightmare</h2>
You want a professional tool embedded in your site, but you don't want to burn through your budget paying developers to reinvent the wheel.
Some solutions require complex server-side installations, messy third-party licensing, or even a rewrite of your existing system architecture. This leads to weeks of painful testing, deployment issues, and ongoing maintenance headaches.
The Fix: You need a solution designed for seamless integration. Whether via API or a pre-built plugin, the technology should feel like it has always been there, requiring minimal developer time to deploy and zero disruption to your existing hosting environment.
<h2>5. The Disjointed User Journey (The 'Pop-Out')</h2>
User Experience (UX) is the currency of e-commerce. A major flaw in many legacy personalisation tools is the &quot;iframe&quot; or &quot;pop-out&quot; method, where the user clicks &quot;personalise&quot; and is visibly taken to a different URL or a jarringly different interface to design their product, only to be thrown back to the cart afterward.
This breaks the trust chain. The customer feels like they have left your secure environment. This disjointed experience increases cart abandonment rates as users lose confidence in the security and professional nature of the site.
<blockquote>
In e-commerce, friction is the ultimate conversion killer. If a customer feels they are being handed off to a third-party tool that doesn't look or feel like your brand, they don't see 'personalisation' - they see a security risk. A seamless, embedded experience is no longer a luxury; it’s a requirement for trust.
</blockquote>
Nielsen Norman Group (UX Research Insights)
The Fix: The editor must be fully embeddable. It should adopt your CSS, your branding, and keep the user firmly within your domain throughout the entire journey.
<h2>Conclusion: Solving the Puzzle with Vpress Embedded Tech</h2>
Finding a web-to-print solution that balances a great user experience with professional-grade production integrity is difficult. Most software providers are either good at the &quot;web&quot; part (pretty interfaces) or the &quot;print&quot; part (production files) - rarely both.
<blockquote>
The most successful print-on-demand businesses are those that own their technology stack and their data. By embedding personalisation directly into your site rather than outsourcing the whole shop, you maintain the relationship with the customer - which is the most valuable asset you have.
</blockquote>
Jennifer Matt, President of WhatTheyThink.
At Vpress, we built our Embedded Tech specifically to solve these five challenges, utilizing 25 years of hard-learned industry experience. We don't want your customers or your fulfillment margin; we simply provide the world-class <a href="/" title="professional web-to-print platform">web-to-print platform</a> to power your growth.
Our technology allows you to:
<ul>
<li>Own the Workflow: Connect customer designs directly to your production workflow (or your suppliers) via our <a href="/products/coreprint" title="integrated web-to-print solution">integrated web-to-print solution</a> for fully automated fulfillment.</li>
<li>Guarantee Quality: Every design becomes a production-ready file, eliminating manual checks and the &quot;hidden costs&quot; of pre-press errors.</li>
<li>Integrate Effortlessly: With developer-friendly APIs, comprehensive documentation, and a dedicated Shopify plugin, you can be up and running fast.</li>
<li>Keep Your Customers: Our editor embeds seamlessly into your site, offering a white-label experience that keeps the spotlight on your brand, not ours.</li>
</ul>

If you are a commercial printer, print manager, or creative agency looking to unleash the power of product personalisation on your e-commerce site without the technical headaches, discover Vpress Embedded Tech today.

The Simple Path to Seamless Web-to-Print Integration

Web-to-Print Software: 5 Risks of Product Personalisation Integration

QR code usage **grew 323%** between 2021-2024 (*QR TIGER*). That small square transforms static print into a measurable, dynamic marketing channel. **Web-to-Print platforms** are integrating QR capabilities to **bridge the digital-physical divide**.

The physical permanence and tactile nature of print materials remains an unmatched marketing tool. A brochure, a postcard, or a business card offers a tangible connection that digital screens simply can’t replicate. From the texture of specialised paper stock to the evocative, unique smell of fresh ink, print engages multiple senses, creating a deeper, more memorable experience for the consumer.

But in an era defined by instant gratification and dynamic information, static print has a limitation: it can’t change... but this is where the unassuming square - the QR Code came into it's own.

We'll explore the history, power, and advanced use of the QR Code - the technology that allows print to become dynamic and measurable - and explain why integrating it into a [web-to-print solution](/products/coreprint "Coreprint Web to Print Solution") is the key to creating impactful print.

## What is a QR Code?

A QR Code (Quick Response Code) is a type of two-dimensional barcode. Unlike a traditional barcode which only reads horizontally, a QR Code stores data both horizontally and vertically, allowing it to hold significantly more information.

**Definition**: When scanned by a smartphone camera or a dedicated scanner, the code instantly translates the stored data into an action, most commonly linking to a website, displaying text, or saving contact information.

Born in 1994 by Denso Wave in Japan, originally to track vehicle parts on the factory floor, the Quick Response (QR) Code has had a slow, steady, and ultimately explosive growth trajectory. For years it was a niche curiosity, but today, with every smartphone acting as a high-powered scanner, the QR Code has become the simplest, most elegant bridge between print and the entire digital world. It has become print’s perfect complement.

While the technology has been around for decades, its global adoption accelerated rapidly in recent years due to:

* Widespread ownership of smartphones.
* Smartphones gaining native scanning capabilities (eliminating the need for separate apps).
* The global need for touchless and contactless data exchange.

## Why QR Codes are Print’s Perfect Complement: Proving the ROI

For both [Printers](/industries/printers "Web to Print for Printers") and [Corporate](/industries/corporate "Coreporate Web to Print") Clients alike, QR Codes solve a fundamental challenge in print communication: the need for dynamic content and measurable results. It transforms a static printed piece into a powerful, two-way communication device.

> The inclusion of QR codes has introduced a crucial aspect of interactivity to a world that has grown increasingly numb to conventional, passive advertising methods. People have become accustomed to simply viewing adverts without engaging, but QR codes break the fourth wall and invite viewers to interact with the brand’s message.

### Enhanced Consumer Engagement and Interactivity

QR codes break the barrier between the physical product and the digital experience, inviting the consumer to take immediate action, which significantly increases the chance of a successful Call-to-Action (CTA).

Instant Engagement and Reduced Friction: Print prompts an action (scan), not just a passive read. This immediate access is critical because it captures the customer's attention in the moment of interest. Crucially, when a QR code links to a sign-up form, contest entry, or "fill-your-details" page, the user's mobile browser often auto-fills stored information (like name, email, and phone number). This eliminates manual typing, reducing friction and resulting in a much higher completion rate.

* **Multimedia Experiences**: They allow print materials to link to engaging multimedia content, which is a significant boost to user interaction.
 * **Real-World Case**: Major Retailer's Contest: A large national clothing retailer used QR codes on in-store flyers and print advertisements to direct customers to an instant entry form for a weekly prize draw. Because the mobile form auto-filled most customer details from their browser cache, the retailer saw a 40% increase in form submissions compared to their standard website entry method, proving the power of this seamless digital hand-off.
 * **Augmented Reality Example**: 19 Crimes Wine uses QR codes on its bottle labels to trigger an Augmented Reality (AR) experience where the historical figure on the label "comes to life" and tells their story, increasing customer dwell time and brand connection.

### Actionable Tracking and Measurable ROI

One of the most valuable characteristics of an integrated QR Code solution is its capacity for detailed analytics. This allows print to finally compete with digital media in terms of data.

* **Trackability & Analytics**: Dynamic QR Codes (a feature available in advanced web-to-print solutions) allow marketers to track when, where, and how often a code is scanned, providing valuable data on campaign effectiveness, geographic interest, and peak engagement times.
 * **Real-World Case**: MDL Marinas Group successfully used QR codes in printed welcome packs and posters to capture over 900 customer email addresses and track engagement with specific partner offers, proving the codes' effectiveness across different customer segments.
 * **Retail Example**: L'Oréal and Sephora have used QR codes in print ads and in-store displays to link directly to virtual try-on features or product tutorials, merging the physical browsing experience with online personalisation.

### Streamlining Processes and Information Access

Beyond marketing, QR Codes are used to provide essential utility, making processes easier for both the customer and the business.

* **Cost-Effective Agility**: The destination link behind a QR code can be modified in real-time without reprinting the physical material. This ensures that offers, contact details, or seasonal menus are always current.
 * **Customer Service**: McDonald's places QR codes on packaging that link instantly to detailed nutritional information, offering immediate access to required information and enhancing customer service.
* **Logistics and Transparency**: Companies like Friso (FrieslandCampina) use QR codes on product packaging to allow consumers to track the 'grass-to-glass' journey of their dairy product, providing supply chain transparency and building trust.

These examples illustrate that QR Codes have matured from a novelty into a powerful, versatile tool that is critical for any organisation looking to make its print dynamic, measurable, and highly interactive.

### Dive Deep: The Different Types of QR Codes

To truly maximise the value of a QR Code, we must first understand the primary data types it can deliver.

* **Linking to Websites (URLs)**

 The most common use, directing the user to a company homepage, product page, or campaign landing page. This is the simplest way to get a printed call-to-action online.

* **Sharing Contact Information (vCards and MeCards)**

 These codes store structured contact data (Name, Phone, Email, Title). When scanned, the data can be instantly imported into the user’s mobile contacts application, ensuring accurate and seamless professional networking.

* **Delivering Plain Text, SMS, or Email**

 These codes pre-populate a text message, an email, or simply display a block of static information. They are excellent for fast, low-friction communication, such as pre-populating an email to "Request a Quote."

### Advanced QR Code Utility: The Power of Personalisation and Verification

When integrated with sophisticated backend systems, the QR Code moves beyond generic linking and becomes a mechanism for delivering unique, trackable, and verified digital interactions.

For regulated industries (such as finance, healthcare, and government), where compliance, security, and audit trails are non-negotiable, the QR Code moves beyond convenience and becomes a vital tool for risk mitigation and accountability.

**Verification and Access Control** The code holds encrypted, personal data (such as a unique user ID or event registration number). When scanned at an entry point or checkpoint, the system cross-references this data with a secure database to verify the user’s identity or access permissions. This is essential for event tickets and corporate access passes.

**Enabling Personalised Referrals and Commission Tracking** The QR Code links to a generic sign-up page but includes a unique tracking parameter that identifies the specific print recipient or distributor (the referrer). When the user completes the sign-up, the system automatically ensures the correct person gets the commission or credit, seamlessly digitising the referral process.

**Secure and Personalised Digital Document Delivery** For sensitive or frequently updated documents, the QR Code provides a powerful digital equivalent to the printed material. The code links the user to a secure, dedicated portal containing the digital version of the printed item. This solves issues of document obsolescence and security, ensuring users always receive the correct version and providing valuable analytics.

### The Solution: Coreprint Web-to-Print’s Integrated QR Code Capability

Implementing this level of sophisticated, integrated functionality requires a purpose-built [web-to-print solution](/products/coreprint "Coreprint Web to Print Solution").

Platforms that manage the full spectrum of print ordering, customisation, and delivery, like Coreprint, are uniquely equipped to handle these advanced QR Code needs. Coreprint ensures that every code generated from a branded vCard to a complex, personalised verification key, is seamlessly integrated into the production workflow.

### Conclusion: Turning Print Into a Powerful, Dynamic Asset

The QR Code has truly come of age, moving from a novelty to a fundamental component of a modern, data-driven print strategy.

Achieving this high level of sophisticated, integrated functionality requires a purpose-built platform. Solutions must be designed to embed this intelligence directly into the production workflow.

By focusing on solutions that excel at integrated and personalised QR Code generation, businesses can move beyond basic linking. This technology allows every printed piece to become a dynamic, measurable asset capable of driving verified access, tracking referrals, and ensuring instant, secure digital document delivery. Achieving this level of comprehensive, sophisticated control requires a dedicated web-to-print platform.

This sophisticated approach is best facilitated by the power of a platform like Coreprint and its innovative [Vdocs](/products/vdocs "Vdocs The Web to Print Digital Solution") module, which provides the seamless technology required to deliver next-generation print-to-digital results.

QR code usage grew 323% between 2021-2024 (QR TIGER). That small square transforms static print into a measurable, dynamic marketing channel. Web-to-Print platforms are integrating QR capabilities to bridge the digital-physical divide.
The physical permanence and tactile nature of print materials remains an unmatched marketing tool. A brochure, a postcard, or a business card offers a tangible connection that digital screens simply can’t replicate. From the texture of specialised paper stock to the evocative, unique smell of fresh ink, print engages multiple senses, creating a deeper, more memorable experience for the consumer.
But in an era defined by instant gratification and dynamic information, static print has a limitation: it can’t change... but this is where the unassuming square - the QR Code came into it's own.
We'll explore the history, power, and advanced use of the QR Code - the technology that allows print to become dynamic and measurable - and explain why integrating it into a <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Coreprint Web to Print Solution">web-to-print solution</a> is the key to creating impactful print.
<h2>What is a QR Code?</h2>
A QR Code (Quick Response Code) is a type of two-dimensional barcode. Unlike a traditional barcode which only reads horizontally, a QR Code stores data both horizontally and vertically, allowing it to hold significantly more information.
Definition: When scanned by a smartphone camera or a dedicated scanner, the code instantly translates the stored data into an action, most commonly linking to a website, displaying text, or saving contact information.
Born in 1994 by Denso Wave in Japan, originally to track vehicle parts on the factory floor, the Quick Response (QR) Code has had a slow, steady, and ultimately explosive growth trajectory. For years it was a niche curiosity, but today, with every smartphone acting as a high-powered scanner, the QR Code has become the simplest, most elegant bridge between print and the entire digital world. It has become print’s perfect complement.
While the technology has been around for decades, its global adoption accelerated rapidly in recent years due to:
<ul>
<li>Widespread ownership of smartphones.</li>
<li>Smartphones gaining native scanning capabilities (eliminating the need for separate apps).</li>
<li>The global need for touchless and contactless data exchange.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Why QR Codes are Print’s Perfect Complement: Proving the ROI</h2>
For both <a href="/industries/printers" title="Web to Print for Printers">Printers</a> and <a href="/industries/corporate" title="Coreporate Web to Print">Corporate</a> Clients alike, QR Codes solve a fundamental challenge in print communication: the need for dynamic content and measurable results. It transforms a static printed piece into a powerful, two-way communication device.
<blockquote>
The inclusion of QR codes has introduced a crucial aspect of interactivity to a world that has grown increasingly numb to conventional, passive advertising methods. People have become accustomed to simply viewing adverts without engaging, but QR codes break the fourth wall and invite viewers to interact with the brand’s message.
</blockquote>
<h3>Enhanced Consumer Engagement and Interactivity</h3>
QR codes break the barrier between the physical product and the digital experience, inviting the consumer to take immediate action, which significantly increases the chance of a successful Call-to-Action (CTA).
Instant Engagement and Reduced Friction: Print prompts an action (scan), not just a passive read. This immediate access is critical because it captures the customer's attention in the moment of interest. Crucially, when a QR code links to a sign-up form, contest entry, or &quot;fill-your-details&quot; page, the user's mobile browser often auto-fills stored information (like name, email, and phone number). This eliminates manual typing, reducing friction and resulting in a much higher completion rate.
<ul>
<li>Multimedia Experiences: They allow print materials to link to engaging multimedia content, which is a significant boost to user interaction.
<ul>
<li>Real-World Case: Major Retailer's Contest: A large national clothing retailer used QR codes on in-store flyers and print advertisements to direct customers to an instant entry form for a weekly prize draw. Because the mobile form auto-filled most customer details from their browser cache, the retailer saw a 40% increase in form submissions compared to their standard website entry method, proving the power of this seamless digital hand-off.</li>
<li>Augmented Reality Example: 19 Crimes Wine uses QR codes on its bottle labels to trigger an Augmented Reality (AR) experience where the historical figure on the label &quot;comes to life&quot; and tells their story, increasing customer dwell time and brand connection.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Actionable Tracking and Measurable ROI</h3>
One of the most valuable characteristics of an integrated QR Code solution is its capacity for detailed analytics. This allows print to finally compete with digital media in terms of data.
<ul>
<li>Trackability &amp; Analytics: Dynamic QR Codes (a feature available in advanced web-to-print solutions) allow marketers to track when, where, and how often a code is scanned, providing valuable data on campaign effectiveness, geographic interest, and peak engagement times.
<ul>
<li>Real-World Case: MDL Marinas Group successfully used QR codes in printed welcome packs and posters to capture over 900 customer email addresses and track engagement with specific partner offers, proving the codes' effectiveness across different customer segments.</li>
<li>Retail Example: L'Oréal and Sephora have used QR codes in print ads and in-store displays to link directly to virtual try-on features or product tutorials, merging the physical browsing experience with online personalisation.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Streamlining Processes and Information Access</h3>
Beyond marketing, QR Codes are used to provide essential utility, making processes easier for both the customer and the business.
<ul>
<li>Cost-Effective Agility: The destination link behind a QR code can be modified in real-time without reprinting the physical material. This ensures that offers, contact details, or seasonal menus are always current.
<ul>
<li>Customer Service: McDonald's places QR codes on packaging that link instantly to detailed nutritional information, offering immediate access to required information and enhancing customer service.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Logistics and Transparency: Companies like Friso (FrieslandCampina) use QR codes on product packaging to allow consumers to track the 'grass-to-glass' journey of their dairy product, providing supply chain transparency and building trust.</li>
</ul>
These examples illustrate that QR Codes have matured from a novelty into a powerful, versatile tool that is critical for any organisation looking to make its print dynamic, measurable, and highly interactive.
<h3>Dive Deep: The Different Types of QR Codes</h3>
To truly maximise the value of a QR Code, we must first understand the primary data types it can deliver.
<ul>
<li>
Linking to Websites (URLs)
The most common use, directing the user to a company homepage, product page, or campaign landing page. This is the simplest way to get a printed call-to-action online.
</li>
<li>
Sharing Contact Information (vCards and MeCards)
These codes store structured contact data (Name, Phone, Email, Title). When scanned, the data can be instantly imported into the user’s mobile contacts application, ensuring accurate and seamless professional networking.
</li>
<li>
Delivering Plain Text, SMS, or Email
These codes pre-populate a text message, an email, or simply display a block of static information. They are excellent for fast, low-friction communication, such as pre-populating an email to &quot;Request a Quote.&quot;
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Advanced QR Code Utility: The Power of Personalisation and Verification</h3>
When integrated with sophisticated backend systems, the QR Code moves beyond generic linking and becomes a mechanism for delivering unique, trackable, and verified digital interactions.
For regulated industries (such as finance, healthcare, and government), where compliance, security, and audit trails are non-negotiable, the QR Code moves beyond convenience and becomes a vital tool for risk mitigation and accountability.
Verification and Access Control The code holds encrypted, personal data (such as a unique user ID or event registration number). When scanned at an entry point or checkpoint, the system cross-references this data with a secure database to verify the user’s identity or access permissions. This is essential for event tickets and corporate access passes.
Enabling Personalised Referrals and Commission Tracking The QR Code links to a generic sign-up page but includes a unique tracking parameter that identifies the specific print recipient or distributor (the referrer). When the user completes the sign-up, the system automatically ensures the correct person gets the commission or credit, seamlessly digitising the referral process.
Secure and Personalised Digital Document Delivery For sensitive or frequently updated documents, the QR Code provides a powerful digital equivalent to the printed material. The code links the user to a secure, dedicated portal containing the digital version of the printed item. This solves issues of document obsolescence and security, ensuring users always receive the correct version and providing valuable analytics.
<h3>The Solution: Coreprint Web-to-Print’s Integrated QR Code Capability</h3>
Implementing this level of sophisticated, integrated functionality requires a purpose-built <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Coreprint Web to Print Solution">web-to-print solution</a>.
Platforms that manage the full spectrum of print ordering, customisation, and delivery, like Coreprint, are uniquely equipped to handle these advanced QR Code needs. Coreprint ensures that every code generated from a branded vCard to a complex, personalised verification key, is seamlessly integrated into the production workflow.
<h3>Conclusion: Turning Print Into a Powerful, Dynamic Asset</h3>
The QR Code has truly come of age, moving from a novelty to a fundamental component of a modern, data-driven print strategy.
Achieving this high level of sophisticated, integrated functionality requires a purpose-built platform. Solutions must be designed to embed this intelligence directly into the production workflow.
By focusing on solutions that excel at integrated and personalised QR Code generation, businesses can move beyond basic linking. This technology allows every printed piece to become a dynamic, measurable asset capable of driving verified access, tracking referrals, and ensuring instant, secure digital document delivery. Achieving this level of comprehensive, sophisticated control requires a dedicated web-to-print platform.
This sophisticated approach is best facilitated by the power of a platform like Coreprint and its innovative <a href="/products/vdocs" title="Vdocs The Web to Print Digital Solution">Vdocs</a> module, which provides the seamless technology required to deliver next-generation print-to-digital results.

Book a demo today to see how the Coreprint platform can transform your printed materials into powerful, measurable digital assets.

Ready to See the Power of Integrated QR Codes?

The Power of QR Codes in Print: How Next-Generation Solutions Bridge the Digital-Physical Divide

When a Print Service Provider (PSP) evaluates a Web-to-Print vendor, the true measure of risk is not where the sales headquarters are located, but where the **data is processed (hosting)** and where the **platform is built (development)**. The location of these "back office" functions dictates the risk of massive fines and liability passed down from your corporate clients (Data Controllers).

## I. Jurisdictional Risk: The Liability Cascade

The vendor's registered address (Headquarters) is irrelevant to data and IP compliance. The governing laws are determined by the location of the **data subjects (your customers' customers)** and the **physical servers**. As the Data Controller (the Corporate Client) is ultimately liable, any failing by the **Web-to-Print (W2P)** platform (the Sub-Processor) flows directly up to the PSP (the Processor).

<table><tbody><tr><td>Risk Area</td><td>Headquarter Location (Front Office)</td><td>Processing Location (Back Office)</td></tr><tr><td>Legal Basis</td><td>Dictates where you sue the vendor (contract law).</td><td>Dictates the legal framework for data access (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, CLOUD Act), which impacts your corporate client's compliance.</td></tr><tr><td>Data Security</td><td>Irrelevant.</td><td>Determines the physical security and access laws enforced by local governments.</td></tr><tr><td>Compliance Costs</td><td>Low impact.</td><td>High impact. The PSP bears the audit and contractual cost of assuring the corporate client that the SaaS provider meets requirements.</td></tr><tr><td>Financial Liability</td><td>Minimal direct risk to the PSP.</td><td>High. A breach here means the corporate client (Controller) faces fines, which they will recoup from the PSP (Processor).</td></tr></tbody></table>

## II. Data Hosting Location: Compliance, Scalability, and Sovereign Access

The physical location of the server determines the applicable data privacy and sovereignty laws, but the infrastructure choice determines performance and reliability.

### A. Legal Compliance & Data Residency

* **Risk for the PSP**: Hosting customer PII (including names, addresses, and order history) outside of regions with "adequacy decisions" (UK, EU/EEA, US under the DPF, etc.) triggers complex requirements like Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) or UK International Data Transfer Agreements (IDTAs). If the PSP fails to get proper assurances from the W2P SaaS vendor, the PSP is in breach of its contract with the corporate client and risks severe financial penalties and regulatory fines (up to 4% of global turnover) being levied against the Controller, who will then pursue the PSP for indemnity.
* **Mitigation**: The contract must include a Data Residency Guarantee stating that all sensitive customer data will be physically stored and processed exclusively in UK, US, or EU regions.

### B. High Availability, Scalability, and Resilient Cloud Architecture

* **Risk for the Corporate Client**: Relying on non-accredited infrastructure or self-managed data centres inherently introduces weaknesses in resilience, leading to single points of failure, manual scaling limits, and potential catastrophic outages. This translates directly to an inability to meet contracted uptime guarantees, violating the Availability objective of ISO/IEC 27001 and undermining the core principles of ISO 22301 (Business Continuity) by failing to maintain service delivery during periods of disruption or peak demand.
* **Mitigation**: Ensure the Web-to-Print SaaS provider can demonstrate a robust approach to infrastructure resilience and quality assurance, ensuring compliance with ISO 22301 (Business Continuity). Specifically, they must demonstrate that they leverage resilient and proven Design & Reliability (D&R) planning and testing, such as:
 * **Active-Active Failover**: Implementing a fully redundant architecture where critical services are deployed across geographically separate locations, enabling near-instant failover with zero data loss.
 * **Automated Elasticity**: Utilising dynamic, automated scaling groups to instantly handle unpredictable surges in client order volumes and peak seasonal workloads.
 * **Tested Business Continuity**: Providing formal, documented proof of regular testing and validation of Disaster Recovery (DR) and Business Continuity (BC) plans to ensure seamless service restoration and the ability to handle peak volumes under crisis conditions.

## III. Development Location: The Risk of Low-Cost Jurisdictions to Platform Integrity

If the Web-to-Print platform's development (where the code is written) is outsourced to teams in low-cost jurisdictions, the security risk to the intellectual property (IP) and system integrity skyrockets, directly compromising the data security the corporate client requires.

> If you think good architecture is expensive, try bad architecture.

*Bjarne Stroustrup (Creator of the programming language C++)*

### A. Insider Threat and Malicious Code Injection

Developers hold the "keys to the kingdom"- access to source code, deployment pipelines, and production environments. Lax development controls in an outsourced location create a direct, catastrophic risk to the PSP and its corporate client.

* **Risk**: A development partner with high staff turnover or lax internal controls increases the risk of malicious code injection (backdoors, logic bombs) or a major data breach caused by a disgruntled employee or a compromised contractor (insider threat). This risk is compounded by the threat of IP leakage, where proprietary algorithms or database structures are copied, making the threat actor better equipped to execute a breach on the live Web-to-Print platform.
* **Actionable Due Diligence**: Require documentation of their security practices, including:
 * **Vetting**: Background checks on all key developers.
 * **Code Review**: Mandatory review for all production code deployments.
 * **Access Control**: Strict Need-to-Know (least privilege) access to production systems, automatically revoking access upon termination.
 * **IP Protection**: Proof of a legally sound IP Assignment Deed (Work-for-Hire) specific to the development country's laws, confirming 100% IP ownership rests with the SaaS vendor, which acts as a secondary layer of risk control.

### B. Code Quality, Technical Debt, and Maintainability

Outsourcing development purely to chase the lowest labour cost introduces a high risk of poor code quality, which translates into an unstable system and high Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over the contract life.

* **Risk**: For mission-critical platforms like Web-to-Print systems, the choice of a low-cost development jurisdiction is a direct risk signal. This cost-driven approach forces developers to prioritise speed over quality, systematically neglecting robust system architecture, peer-review, and integrated testing. The direct result is a brittle Web-to-Print system characterised by system fragility - where frequent, complex bugs disrupt client workflows and order processing - and a relentless increase in technical debt (poorly written code). This poor quality makes the platform inherently expensive to maintain, slow to adapt, and risky to operate in the long term, eventually leading to costly downtime and the need for early, disruptive replacement for the corporate client.
* **Mitigation**: Demand proof that the development team follows rigorous, auditable quality standards, including:
 * **Automated Testing**: Requirement for unit, integration, and end-to-end testing integrated into the CI/CD pipeline.
 * **Architectural Oversight**: Evidence that senior, local architects oversee code contributions to ensure best practices are maintained and technical debt is actively managed and reduced.

## IV. The Ultimate Requirement and Competitive Advantage

The central risk is a lack of verifiable transparency and demonstrable control over the technology supply chain. The provider’s sales presence is irrelevant; their security protocols at the point of development and data processing are everything. Corporate clients will demand proof of control over the entire supply chain.

The contractual requirement must be demonstrable organisational maturity and rigorous process control. If the provider cannot transparently evidence that the teams building the Web-to-Print platform follow mature internal processes—and that their hosting is managed under a certified standard like ISO 27001 (global credibility) or SOC 2 Type II (US enterprise trust)—the risks are unacceptable to your high-value corporate customers. The focus must be on verifiable process control that eliminates systemic failure points.

## V. The Long-Term Reward: Competitive Advantage and TCO Reduction

These stringent security requirements are not just defensive costs; they are proactive investments that dramatically improve your competitive position and reduce the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over the contract's lifespan.

### A. Win Enterprise Deals and Shorten Sales Cycles

In the Web-to-Print SaaS sector, security certifications are the fastest path to closing enterprise deals. Procurement teams view **ISO 27001** and **SOC 2 Type II** compliance not as optional extras, but as proof of operational maturity.

* **Market Differentiator**: Compliance transforms your security posture from a potential liability into a unique selling proposition (USP). You can immediately qualify for RFPs (Request for Proposals) that exclude non-compliant vendors.
* **Simplified Due Diligence**: Instead of spending weeks on exhaustive security questionnaires and due diligence, we provide transparent documentation of our operational maturity, including our partner's ISO certifications and full evidence of our in-house UK development processes. This transparency simplifies the client's risk assessment for the Web-to-Print system, significantly accelerating the vendor onboarding process.

### B. Scalability, Reliability, and TCO Efficiency

Leveraging robust cloud infrastructure like AWS is an investment in elasticity, which fundamentally lowers the operational TCO and fuels sustainable growth.

* **Cost-Efficient Pricing**: The platform's use of a pay-as-you-go cloud model eliminates the massive, fixed capital expenditure (CapEx) associated with owning physical servers. This optimised Operational Expenditure (OpEx) model allows us to offer more competitive and stable long-term subscription pricing for the Web-to-Print service, directly benefitting the client's TCO.
* **Guaranteed Uptime**: Multi-AZ deployments and automated failover capabilities baked into modern cloud architecture guarantee higher uptime metrics (we have an SLA of 99.95% or better) than any single-server solution. This resilience ensures uninterrupted service, preventing costly lost revenue and client churn caused by system outages.
* **Future-Proofing**: Cloud infrastructure provides instant access to advanced features (AI services, global expansion, enhanced security services) without requiring core architectural changes. This flexibility ensures your W2P platform can adapt to future client demands and remain technologically competitive without expensive, disruptive overhauls.

### C. Design, Reliability, and Continuous Engineering (D&R)

Our 100% in-house, UK-based development team is mandated to follow stringent Design and Reliability (D&R) principles. This focus on engineering quality throughout the development lifecycle is a key defense against technical debt, ensuring the platform remains stable, performant, and easily maintainable for the long term.

* **Lower Technical Debt**: By prioritising clean architecture, test-driven development, and mandatory peer-review for all code deployments, we significantly reduce the technical debt that plagues outsourced or rushed software projects. Lower technical debt translates directly into faster feature development, fewer bugs, and improved long-term reliability.

> Left unchecked, technical debt will ensure that the only work that gets done is unplanned work!

*Gene Kim (Author, The Phoenix Project)*

* **Stability through Continuous Integration**: Our continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline is designed with automated, multi-stage testing, ensuring that every update improves platform stability rather than jeopardising it. This rigorous approach to D&R guarantees that the total cost of ownership (TCO) remains predictable and low over the life of the contract.

## VI. Vendor Assurance: Stability, Compliance, and a Hybrid Future

For over two decades, [Vpress](/about "Vpress") has established itself as a **cornerstone of the Web-to-Print industry**, translating deep market experience into a secure and **highly reliable solution**. Our maturity is reflected in our robust, hybrid cloud architecture, designed specifically to meet the non-negotiable standards of large enterprise clients.

> Every shortcut in engineering is a withdrawal from future competitive velocity. You don't get faster by cutting corners; you simply place your customer's core business operations in direct jeopardy.

James Hall, Technical Director, Vpress

### A. Dedicated UK Private Cloud and Operational Maturity

To ensure absolute control over data sovereignty and performance, the core processing platform is managed within a high-security, private cloud environment located exclusively in the UK. This infrastructure is overseen by a trusted, long-standing UK hosting partner—a recognised expert in managed cloud services with decades of operational experience.

* **Certified Operations**: The infrastructure and operational processes are independently certified, with our long-standing UK hosting partner holding the following key ISO accreditations:
 * **ISO/IEC 27001**: The auditable international standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
 * **ISO 22301**: The international standard for Business Continuity Management Systems, providing assurance that the partner maintains robust business continuity plans in the event of a crisis.
 * **ISO 9001**: Based on quality management principles, demonstrating adherence to documented operational processes implemented across the business.
* **Resilience and Focus**: Leveraging this specialised partner ensures that critical systems are managed 24/7/365 by security and infrastructure experts, allowing the platform's development team to focus solely on innovating the Web-to-Print software.

### B. Strategic Use of AWS for Global Elasticity

While the core platform resides in the highly controlled UK Private Cloud, we strategically leverage global public cloud platforms, such as AWS, to maximise elasticity and geographic reach:

* **Massive Scalability**: AWS provides the capability for us to instantly scale capacity up or down to handle unpredictable peak seasonal workloads and accommodate the aggressive global expansion of our clients' operations.
* **Future-Proofing**: This hybrid approach grants us immediate access to cutting-edge cloud features (like advanced AI services) and deployment regions, ensuring the platform remains technologically superior and adaptable without compromising the stability of the core Web-to-Print data environment.

### C. Dedicated In-House UK Development Team

The most significant mitigation against development-related risks (Section III) is our commitment to a 100% in-house development model, exclusively based in the UK. This approach eliminates the risks inherent in outsourced, globally distributed coding teams.

* **Unwavering Control**: We maintain absolute, direct control over the platform's source code, deployment pipelines, and IP. All development staff are subject to the provider's rigorous UK employment contracts, vetting, and internal security protocols.
* **IP Protection**: By keeping the entire development lifecycle within the UK jurisdiction, we simplify intellectual property rights and maintain data integrity, significantly lowering the exposure to threats like malicious code injection or foreign government access.

### D. A Proven Track Record of Enterprise Trust

Our operational rigor, transparent compliance, and two decades of stability are underpinned by our core philosophy: "**Partnering customers to success**." We recognise that our responsibility is to provide the most **reliable and secure Web-to-Print platform possible**, ensuring **our customers are successful with their clients and their end-users**. This commitment has **earned us the trust of the world's largest and most demanding organisations**.

We are **proud to serve mission-critical applications** for major clients across the public sector and global private enterprises, confirming our **stability and credibility as a long-term technology partner**. This proven track record provides the ultimate assurance that **our platform is built on secure, mature foundations designed to withstand the scrutiny and requirements of global enterprise operations**.

When a Print Service Provider (PSP) evaluates a Web-to-Print vendor, the true measure of risk is not where the sales headquarters are located, but where the data is processed (hosting) and where the platform is built (development). The location of these &quot;back office&quot; functions dictates the risk of massive fines and liability passed down from your corporate clients (Data Controllers).
<h2>I. Jurisdictional Risk: The Liability Cascade</h2>
The vendor's registered address (Headquarters) is irrelevant to data and IP compliance. The governing laws are determined by the location of the data subjects (your customers' customers) and the physical servers. As the Data Controller (the Corporate Client) is ultimately liable, any failing by the Web-to-Print (W2P) platform (the Sub-Processor) flows directly up to the PSP (the Processor).
<table><tbody><tr><td>Risk Area</td><td>Headquarter Location (Front Office)</td><td>Processing Location (Back Office)</td></tr><tr><td>Legal Basis</td><td>Dictates where you sue the vendor (contract law).</td><td>Dictates the legal framework for data access (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, CLOUD Act), which impacts your corporate client's compliance.</td></tr><tr><td>Data Security</td><td>Irrelevant.</td><td>Determines the physical security and access laws enforced by local governments.</td></tr><tr><td>Compliance Costs</td><td>Low impact.</td><td>High impact. The PSP bears the audit and contractual cost of assuring the corporate client that the SaaS provider meets requirements.</td></tr><tr><td>Financial Liability</td><td>Minimal direct risk to the PSP.</td><td>High. A breach here means the corporate client (Controller) faces fines, which they will recoup from the PSP (Processor).</td></tr></tbody></table>
<h2>II. Data Hosting Location: Compliance, Scalability, and Sovereign Access</h2>
The physical location of the server determines the applicable data privacy and sovereignty laws, but the infrastructure choice determines performance and reliability.
<h3>A. Legal Compliance &amp; Data Residency</h3>
<ul>
<li>Risk for the PSP: Hosting customer PII (including names, addresses, and order history) outside of regions with &quot;adequacy decisions&quot; (UK, EU/EEA, US under the DPF, etc.) triggers complex requirements like Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) or UK International Data Transfer Agreements (IDTAs). If the PSP fails to get proper assurances from the W2P SaaS vendor, the PSP is in breach of its contract with the corporate client and risks severe financial penalties and regulatory fines (up to 4% of global turnover) being levied against the Controller, who will then pursue the PSP for indemnity.</li>
<li>Mitigation: The contract must include a Data Residency Guarantee stating that all sensitive customer data will be physically stored and processed exclusively in UK, US, or EU regions.</li>
</ul>
<h3>B. High Availability, Scalability, and Resilient Cloud Architecture</h3>
<ul>
<li>Risk for the Corporate Client: Relying on non-accredited infrastructure or self-managed data centres inherently introduces weaknesses in resilience, leading to single points of failure, manual scaling limits, and potential catastrophic outages. This translates directly to an inability to meet contracted uptime guarantees, violating the Availability objective of ISO/IEC 27001 and undermining the core principles of ISO 22301 (Business Continuity) by failing to maintain service delivery during periods of disruption or peak demand.</li>
<li>Mitigation: Ensure the Web-to-Print SaaS provider can demonstrate a robust approach to infrastructure resilience and quality assurance, ensuring compliance with ISO 22301 (Business Continuity). Specifically, they must demonstrate that they leverage resilient and proven Design &amp; Reliability (D&amp;R) planning and testing, such as:
<ul>
<li>Active-Active Failover: Implementing a fully redundant architecture where critical services are deployed across geographically separate locations, enabling near-instant failover with zero data loss.</li>
<li>Automated Elasticity: Utilising dynamic, automated scaling groups to instantly handle unpredictable surges in client order volumes and peak seasonal workloads.</li>
<li>Tested Business Continuity: Providing formal, documented proof of regular testing and validation of Disaster Recovery (DR) and Business Continuity (BC) plans to ensure seamless service restoration and the ability to handle peak volumes under crisis conditions.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>III. Development Location: The Risk of Low-Cost Jurisdictions to Platform Integrity</h2>
If the Web-to-Print platform's development (where the code is written) is outsourced to teams in low-cost jurisdictions, the security risk to the intellectual property (IP) and system integrity skyrockets, directly compromising the data security the corporate client requires.
<blockquote>
If you think good architecture is expensive, try bad architecture.
</blockquote>
Bjarne Stroustrup (Creator of the programming language C++)
<h3>A. Insider Threat and Malicious Code Injection</h3>
Developers hold the &quot;keys to the kingdom&quot;- access to source code, deployment pipelines, and production environments. Lax development controls in an outsourced location create a direct, catastrophic risk to the PSP and its corporate client.
<ul>
<li>Risk: A development partner with high staff turnover or lax internal controls increases the risk of malicious code injection (backdoors, logic bombs) or a major data breach caused by a disgruntled employee or a compromised contractor (insider threat). This risk is compounded by the threat of IP leakage, where proprietary algorithms or database structures are copied, making the threat actor better equipped to execute a breach on the live Web-to-Print platform.</li>
<li>Actionable Due Diligence: Require documentation of their security practices, including:
<ul>
<li>Vetting: Background checks on all key developers.</li>
<li>Code Review: Mandatory review for all production code deployments.</li>
<li>Access Control: Strict Need-to-Know (least privilege) access to production systems, automatically revoking access upon termination.</li>
<li>IP Protection: Proof of a legally sound IP Assignment Deed (Work-for-Hire) specific to the development country's laws, confirming 100% IP ownership rests with the SaaS vendor, which acts as a secondary layer of risk control.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>B. Code Quality, Technical Debt, and Maintainability</h3>
Outsourcing development purely to chase the lowest labour cost introduces a high risk of poor code quality, which translates into an unstable system and high Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over the contract life.
<ul>
<li>Risk: For mission-critical platforms like Web-to-Print systems, the choice of a low-cost development jurisdiction is a direct risk signal. This cost-driven approach forces developers to prioritise speed over quality, systematically neglecting robust system architecture, peer-review, and integrated testing. The direct result is a brittle Web-to-Print system characterised by system fragility - where frequent, complex bugs disrupt client workflows and order processing - and a relentless increase in technical debt (poorly written code). This poor quality makes the platform inherently expensive to maintain, slow to adapt, and risky to operate in the long term, eventually leading to costly downtime and the need for early, disruptive replacement for the corporate client.</li>
<li>Mitigation: Demand proof that the development team follows rigorous, auditable quality standards, including:
<ul>
<li>Automated Testing: Requirement for unit, integration, and end-to-end testing integrated into the CI/CD pipeline.</li>
<li>Architectural Oversight: Evidence that senior, local architects oversee code contributions to ensure best practices are maintained and technical debt is actively managed and reduced.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>IV. The Ultimate Requirement and Competitive Advantage</h2>
The central risk is a lack of verifiable transparency and demonstrable control over the technology supply chain. The provider’s sales presence is irrelevant; their security protocols at the point of development and data processing are everything. Corporate clients will demand proof of control over the entire supply chain.
The contractual requirement must be demonstrable organisational maturity and rigorous process control. If the provider cannot transparently evidence that the teams building the Web-to-Print platform follow mature internal processes—and that their hosting is managed under a certified standard like ISO 27001 (global credibility) or SOC 2 Type II (US enterprise trust)—the risks are unacceptable to your high-value corporate customers. The focus must be on verifiable process control that eliminates systemic failure points.
<h2>V. The Long-Term Reward: Competitive Advantage and TCO Reduction</h2>
These stringent security requirements are not just defensive costs; they are proactive investments that dramatically improve your competitive position and reduce the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over the contract's lifespan.
<h3>A. Win Enterprise Deals and Shorten Sales Cycles</h3>
In the Web-to-Print SaaS sector, security certifications are the fastest path to closing enterprise deals. Procurement teams view ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type II compliance not as optional extras, but as proof of operational maturity.
<ul>
<li>Market Differentiator: Compliance transforms your security posture from a potential liability into a unique selling proposition (USP). You can immediately qualify for RFPs (Request for Proposals) that exclude non-compliant vendors.</li>
<li>Simplified Due Diligence: Instead of spending weeks on exhaustive security questionnaires and due diligence, we provide transparent documentation of our operational maturity, including our partner's ISO certifications and full evidence of our in-house UK development processes. This transparency simplifies the client's risk assessment for the Web-to-Print system, significantly accelerating the vendor onboarding process.</li>
</ul>
<h3>B. Scalability, Reliability, and TCO Efficiency</h3>
Leveraging robust cloud infrastructure like AWS is an investment in elasticity, which fundamentally lowers the operational TCO and fuels sustainable growth.
<ul>
<li>Cost-Efficient Pricing: The platform's use of a pay-as-you-go cloud model eliminates the massive, fixed capital expenditure (CapEx) associated with owning physical servers. This optimised Operational Expenditure (OpEx) model allows us to offer more competitive and stable long-term subscription pricing for the Web-to-Print service, directly benefitting the client's TCO.</li>
<li>Guaranteed Uptime: Multi-AZ deployments and automated failover capabilities baked into modern cloud architecture guarantee higher uptime metrics (we have an SLA of 99.95% or better) than any single-server solution. This resilience ensures uninterrupted service, preventing costly lost revenue and client churn caused by system outages.</li>
<li>Future-Proofing: Cloud infrastructure provides instant access to advanced features (AI services, global expansion, enhanced security services) without requiring core architectural changes. This flexibility ensures your W2P platform can adapt to future client demands and remain technologically competitive without expensive, disruptive overhauls.</li>
</ul>
<h3>C. Design, Reliability, and Continuous Engineering (D&amp;R)</h3>
Our 100% in-house, UK-based development team is mandated to follow stringent Design and Reliability (D&amp;R) principles. This focus on engineering quality throughout the development lifecycle is a key defense against technical debt, ensuring the platform remains stable, performant, and easily maintainable for the long term.
<ul>
<li>Lower Technical Debt: By prioritising clean architecture, test-driven development, and mandatory peer-review for all code deployments, we significantly reduce the technical debt that plagues outsourced or rushed software projects. Lower technical debt translates directly into faster feature development, fewer bugs, and improved long-term reliability.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Left unchecked, technical debt will ensure that the only work that gets done is unplanned work!
</blockquote>
Gene Kim (Author, The Phoenix Project)
<ul>
<li>Stability through Continuous Integration: Our continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipeline is designed with automated, multi-stage testing, ensuring that every update improves platform stability rather than jeopardising it. This rigorous approach to D&amp;R guarantees that the total cost of ownership (TCO) remains predictable and low over the life of the contract.</li>
</ul>
<h2>VI. Vendor Assurance: Stability, Compliance, and a Hybrid Future</h2>
For over two decades, <a href="/about" title="Vpress">Vpress</a> has established itself as a cornerstone of the Web-to-Print industry, translating deep market experience into a secure and highly reliable solution. Our maturity is reflected in our robust, hybrid cloud architecture, designed specifically to meet the non-negotiable standards of large enterprise clients.
<blockquote>
Every shortcut in engineering is a withdrawal from future competitive velocity. You don't get faster by cutting corners; you simply place your customer's core business operations in direct jeopardy.
</blockquote>
James Hall, Technical Director, Vpress
<h3>A. Dedicated UK Private Cloud and Operational Maturity</h3>
To ensure absolute control over data sovereignty and performance, the core processing platform is managed within a high-security, private cloud environment located exclusively in the UK. This infrastructure is overseen by a trusted, long-standing UK hosting partner—a recognised expert in managed cloud services with decades of operational experience.
<ul>
<li>Certified Operations: The infrastructure and operational processes are independently certified, with our long-standing UK hosting partner holding the following key ISO accreditations:
<ul>
<li>ISO/IEC 27001: The auditable international standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.</li>
<li>ISO 22301: The international standard for Business Continuity Management Systems, providing assurance that the partner maintains robust business continuity plans in the event of a crisis.</li>
<li>ISO 9001: Based on quality management principles, demonstrating adherence to documented operational processes implemented across the business.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Resilience and Focus: Leveraging this specialised partner ensures that critical systems are managed 24/7/365 by security and infrastructure experts, allowing the platform's development team to focus solely on innovating the Web-to-Print software.</li>
</ul>
<h3>B. Strategic Use of AWS for Global Elasticity</h3>
While the core platform resides in the highly controlled UK Private Cloud, we strategically leverage global public cloud platforms, such as AWS, to maximise elasticity and geographic reach:
<ul>
<li>Massive Scalability: AWS provides the capability for us to instantly scale capacity up or down to handle unpredictable peak seasonal workloads and accommodate the aggressive global expansion of our clients' operations.</li>
<li>Future-Proofing: This hybrid approach grants us immediate access to cutting-edge cloud features (like advanced AI services) and deployment regions, ensuring the platform remains technologically superior and adaptable without compromising the stability of the core Web-to-Print data environment.</li>
</ul>
<h3>C. Dedicated In-House UK Development Team</h3>
The most significant mitigation against development-related risks (Section III) is our commitment to a 100% in-house development model, exclusively based in the UK. This approach eliminates the risks inherent in outsourced, globally distributed coding teams.
<ul>
<li>Unwavering Control: We maintain absolute, direct control over the platform's source code, deployment pipelines, and IP. All development staff are subject to the provider's rigorous UK employment contracts, vetting, and internal security protocols.</li>
<li>IP Protection: By keeping the entire development lifecycle within the UK jurisdiction, we simplify intellectual property rights and maintain data integrity, significantly lowering the exposure to threats like malicious code injection or foreign government access.</li>
</ul>
<h3>D. A Proven Track Record of Enterprise Trust</h3>
Our operational rigor, transparent compliance, and two decades of stability are underpinned by our core philosophy: &quot;Partnering customers to success.&quot; We recognise that our responsibility is to provide the most reliable and secure Web-to-Print platform possible, ensuring our customers are successful with their clients and their end-users. This commitment has earned us the trust of the world's largest and most demanding organisations.
We are proud to serve mission-critical applications for major clients across the public sector and global private enterprises, confirming our stability and credibility as a long-term technology partner. This proven track record provides the ultimate assurance that our platform is built on secure, mature foundations designed to withstand the scrutiny and requirements of global enterprise operations.

You've read about the hidden dangers of fragile code, supply chain liability, and outsourced development. It's time to stop auditing risk and start partnering with guaranteed resilience.

See how our 100% in-house UK development team and ISO-certified hybrid cloud infrastructure ensure your Web-to-Print platform delivers predictable TCO, absolute compliance, and market-leading uptime.

Don't Just Manage Risk - Guarantee Operational Success

Web-to-Print Risk: What's Your Exposure from Hosting and Development Location?

In today’s fast-moving, digitally driven print landscape, customers expect more control, more confidence, and absolute convenience when ordering personalised print and merchandise online. Whether they’re a marketing manager ordering branded merchandise or a business client purchasing corporate stationery, the expectation is simple: **what they see online is exactly what they’ll get in hand.**

### Discover how Web-to-Print automation eliminates manual mistakes, builds customer trust, and safeguards your margins against the risk of reprints.

With an estimated 50–60% of personalised print products now ordered online, the proofing stage has become not just an option, but a critical business safeguard. Offering a digital proof protects both you, the Print Service Provider (PSP) or supplier, and your customer from costly misunderstandings. And in an increasingly automated world, **Web-to-Print platforms** make this process simple, seamless, and fully integrated into your production workflow.

> The customer's perception is your reality. Make the customer the hero of your story.

As we approach the busy festive season, where turnaround times tighten and order volumes surge, ensuring your proofing and automation processes - powered by Web-to-Print - are watertight is more important than ever.

## Web-to-Print Proofing: Your Unbreakable Business Insurance Policy

When a customer orders a personalised product online, be it branded packaging, promotional items, or printed collateral, they’re buying something unique to them. Unlike a standard stock product, these items can’t be resold or repurposed if something goes wrong or is misunderstood.

> Proofing is without doubt the most important step of the printing process. Approximately 99% of all reprints are caused by not doing a thorough job of proofing. Skipping this step can lead to costly mistakes, wasted materials, and delays that impact your business’s timeline and reputation.

Without a proofing stage, your business is exposed to significant risk:

* **Design errors** (misaligned logos, incorrect fonts, or colours) lead to expensive reprints.
* **Customer expectations** may not match the final output, leading to disputes and chargebacks.
* **Refund requests** leave you with unusable, fully branded stock that can’t be resold.

From a PSP’s point of view, that’s money lost on materials, ink, labour, and production time. For printers operating on tight margins, just a few refund requests a month can erode profitability fast.

A proof, delivered instantly via your Web-to-Print system, mitigates these risks by providing visual confirmation that the design is correct before you hit print. It turns uncertainty into clarity.

&nbsp;

## From Uncertainty to Contract: Proofs Are Your Legal Safety Net

Offering a proof does more than prevent mistakes; it builds trust and accountability between you and your customers.

> To earn the respect and eventually the love of your customers, you first have to respect those customers. By allowing clients to see exactly what will be printed, trust is built between both parties. This transparency fosters stronger relationships and encourages repeat business.

***Ian Nicholson, Key Account Manager, Vpress (and Former Account Director at Precision Proco)***

**For the End Client (B2B and B2C):**

* **Brand Protection**: For marketing managers, a proof provides reassurance that their brand will be represented correctly across all assets.
* **Visual Assurance**: The client sees exactly how the final product will look, colour and layout included, giving them confidence in their purchase.
* **Faster Sign-Off**: An intuitive, automated proofing tool means the client can approve their design instantly, accelerating their project timeline.

**For the Print Service Provider:**

A signed-off digital proof is a safety net - clear, time-stamped evidence that the customer approved the final design before production began. In the event of a dispute, that approval serves as a transparent record, protecting your business from unnecessary refunds and reputational harm.

Simply put, an automated proof isn’t just a file; it’s a mutual, legally defensible agreement, ensuring everyone is aligned before the production process begins.

&nbsp;

## The Profit Killer: How Skipping Proofs Cripples Your Margins

It’s tempting to streamline the ordering process by skipping steps, especially when order volumes spike. But skipping proofs can backfire badly.

Imagine this: a customer uploads a logo with a white background, unaware that it will appear as a visible block on their printed mug. The items are produced, shipped, and paid for, but when the box arrives, the customer complains and requests a refund. Suddenly you’re left with a batch of unusable stock and a dissatisfied client.

Multiply that scenario by a few customers, and it’s easy to see how quickly avoidable errors can eat into your profits.

In contrast, providing an instant proof, which customers sign off with confidence, eliminates ambiguity. That approval protects your business and enhances the customer experience simultaneously. This is where modern Web-to-Print technology proves its worth.

**Vpress: Turning Manual Proofing Nightmares into Instant, Automated Approvals**

Modern Web-to-Print systems like [Coreprint](/products/coreprint "Coreprint Web to Print") from Vpress have transformed proofing from a time-consuming, back-and-forth email exchange into an instant, automated, smooth experience.

Customers can log in, upload artwork, edit templates, and see a live, on-screen preview of their final product, all before checkout. The system automatically generates a proof for review and sign-off, ensuring the design meets both their expectations and your production standards.

For PSPs and suppliers, this means fewer manual touchpoints and dramatically reduced risk of error. Proofs are stored, tracked, and linked to each order, ensuring full transparency across your workflow, a core benefit of a robust Web-to-Print solution.

&nbsp;

## Beyond Proofing: Unlocking 24/7 Profit with Full Web-to-Print Automation

Proofing is just one piece of the automation puzzle. Web-to-Print technology extends far beyond the proofing stage to create a fully streamlined workflow from order to production.

> Web-to-Print and automation have eliminated the need for lengthy back-and-forth communication and manual order placements. By minimising human intervention, errors are reduced, and the reduction of turnaround time is achieved through the automation of the prepress and proofing process. This automated, low-touch workflow makes using the portal the most cost-effective route to production for our customers, as the expense of manual steps is removed.

***Dawn Galley, Galloways - Print and Media Specialists***

When integrated into your MIS or production workflow, it enables orders to flow directly into your workflow 24/7, 365 days a year, ready for scheduling, printing, and dispatch without the need for manual intervention.

**The Key Advantages of Web-to-Print Automation**

<table><thead><tr><td>Business Benefit</td><td>How Web-to-Print Delivers</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Increased Sales</td><td>Round-the-clock order capture: Your online storefront never sleeps.</td></tr><tr><td>Cost Reduction</td><td>Automation eliminates repetitive manual tasks like quoting and artwork approval.</td></tr><tr><td>Faster Turnaround</td><td>Automatic proof approval means production can start immediately, crucial during peak seasons.</td></tr><tr><td>Error Reduction</td><td>Automated workflows reduce human input, minimising the risk of file or data handling mistakes.</td></tr><tr><td>Scalability</td><td>Handle more orders without needing to increase staffing or resources.</td></tr><tr><td>Client Retention</td><td>A smooth, transparent, and efficient ordering experience keeps customers coming back.</td></tr></tbody></table>

Automation doesn’t just make operations faster; it makes them smarter. It allows your business to adapt to customer demand in real time, freeing your team to focus on higher-value activities like production optimisation, sales, and client relationships.

## Final Thoughts: Why Web-to-Print Proofing is the Future

In a world where an estimated 50–60% of personalised print and merchandise orders are placed online, proofing has evolved from a quality control step to a critical business process. It protects PSPs and suppliers from unnecessary losses, safeguards brand integrity, and builds lasting customer trust.

When combined with automation tools like Vpress Web-to-Print, it becomes even more powerful - enabling 24/7 order capture, streamlined workflows, and error-free production all year round.

Now is the time to ensure your proofing and automation systems are in place and performing at their best. Because in print, as in business, Web-to-Print proof really does make perfect.

In today’s fast-moving, digitally driven print landscape, customers expect more control, more confidence, and absolute convenience when ordering personalised print and merchandise online. Whether they’re a marketing manager ordering branded merchandise or a business client purchasing corporate stationery, the expectation is simple: what they see online is exactly what they’ll get in hand.
<h3>Discover how Web-to-Print automation eliminates manual mistakes, builds customer trust, and safeguards your margins against the risk of reprints.</h3>
With an estimated 50–60% of personalised print products now ordered online, the proofing stage has become not just an option, but a critical business safeguard. Offering a digital proof protects both you, the Print Service Provider (PSP) or supplier, and your customer from costly misunderstandings. And in an increasingly automated world, Web-to-Print platforms make this process simple, seamless, and fully integrated into your production workflow.
<blockquote>
The customer's perception is your reality. Make the customer the hero of your story.
</blockquote>
As we approach the busy festive season, where turnaround times tighten and order volumes surge, ensuring your proofing and automation processes - powered by Web-to-Print - are watertight is more important than ever.
<h2>Web-to-Print Proofing: Your Unbreakable Business Insurance Policy</h2>
When a customer orders a personalised product online, be it branded packaging, promotional items, or printed collateral, they’re buying something unique to them. Unlike a standard stock product, these items can’t be resold or repurposed if something goes wrong or is misunderstood.
<blockquote>
Proofing is without doubt the most important step of the printing process. Approximately 99% of all reprints are caused by not doing a thorough job of proofing. Skipping this step can lead to costly mistakes, wasted materials, and delays that impact your business’s timeline and reputation.
</blockquote>
Without a proofing stage, your business is exposed to significant risk:
<ul>
<li>Design errors (misaligned logos, incorrect fonts, or colours) lead to expensive reprints.</li>
<li>Customer expectations may not match the final output, leading to disputes and chargebacks.</li>
<li>Refund requests leave you with unusable, fully branded stock that can’t be resold.</li>
</ul>
From a PSP’s point of view, that’s money lost on materials, ink, labour, and production time. For printers operating on tight margins, just a few refund requests a month can erode profitability fast.
A proof, delivered instantly via your Web-to-Print system, mitigates these risks by providing visual confirmation that the design is correct before you hit print. It turns uncertainty into clarity.
 
<h2>From Uncertainty to Contract: Proofs Are Your Legal Safety Net</h2>
Offering a proof does more than prevent mistakes; it builds trust and accountability between you and your customers.
<blockquote>
To earn the respect and eventually the love of your customers, you first have to respect those customers. By allowing clients to see exactly what will be printed, trust is built between both parties. This transparency fosters stronger relationships and encourages repeat business.
</blockquote>
Ian Nicholson, Key Account Manager, Vpress (and Former Account Director at Precision Proco)
For the End Client (B2B and B2C):
<ul>
<li>Brand Protection: For marketing managers, a proof provides reassurance that their brand will be represented correctly across all assets.</li>
<li>Visual Assurance: The client sees exactly how the final product will look, colour and layout included, giving them confidence in their purchase.</li>
<li>Faster Sign-Off: An intuitive, automated proofing tool means the client can approve their design instantly, accelerating their project timeline.</li>
</ul>
For the Print Service Provider:
A signed-off digital proof is a safety net - clear, time-stamped evidence that the customer approved the final design before production began. In the event of a dispute, that approval serves as a transparent record, protecting your business from unnecessary refunds and reputational harm.
Simply put, an automated proof isn’t just a file; it’s a mutual, legally defensible agreement, ensuring everyone is aligned before the production process begins.
 
<h2>The Profit Killer: How Skipping Proofs Cripples Your Margins</h2>
It’s tempting to streamline the ordering process by skipping steps, especially when order volumes spike. But skipping proofs can backfire badly.
Imagine this: a customer uploads a logo with a white background, unaware that it will appear as a visible block on their printed mug. The items are produced, shipped, and paid for, but when the box arrives, the customer complains and requests a refund. Suddenly you’re left with a batch of unusable stock and a dissatisfied client.
Multiply that scenario by a few customers, and it’s easy to see how quickly avoidable errors can eat into your profits.
In contrast, providing an instant proof, which customers sign off with confidence, eliminates ambiguity. That approval protects your business and enhances the customer experience simultaneously. This is where modern Web-to-Print technology proves its worth.
Vpress: Turning Manual Proofing Nightmares into Instant, Automated Approvals
Modern Web-to-Print systems like <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Coreprint Web to Print">Coreprint</a> from Vpress have transformed proofing from a time-consuming, back-and-forth email exchange into an instant, automated, smooth experience.
Customers can log in, upload artwork, edit templates, and see a live, on-screen preview of their final product, all before checkout. The system automatically generates a proof for review and sign-off, ensuring the design meets both their expectations and your production standards.
For PSPs and suppliers, this means fewer manual touchpoints and dramatically reduced risk of error. Proofs are stored, tracked, and linked to each order, ensuring full transparency across your workflow, a core benefit of a robust Web-to-Print solution.
 
<h2>Beyond Proofing: Unlocking 24/7 Profit with Full Web-to-Print Automation</h2>
Proofing is just one piece of the automation puzzle. Web-to-Print technology extends far beyond the proofing stage to create a fully streamlined workflow from order to production.
<blockquote>
Web-to-Print and automation have eliminated the need for lengthy back-and-forth communication and manual order placements. By minimising human intervention, errors are reduced, and the reduction of turnaround time is achieved through the automation of the prepress and proofing process. This automated, low-touch workflow makes using the portal the most cost-effective route to production for our customers, as the expense of manual steps is removed.
</blockquote>
Dawn Galley, Galloways - Print and Media Specialists
When integrated into your MIS or production workflow, it enables orders to flow directly into your workflow 24/7, 365 days a year, ready for scheduling, printing, and dispatch without the need for manual intervention.
The Key Advantages of Web-to-Print Automation
<table><thead><tr><td>Business Benefit</td><td>How Web-to-Print Delivers</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Increased Sales</td><td>Round-the-clock order capture: Your online storefront never sleeps.</td></tr><tr><td>Cost Reduction</td><td>Automation eliminates repetitive manual tasks like quoting and artwork approval.</td></tr><tr><td>Faster Turnaround</td><td>Automatic proof approval means production can start immediately, crucial during peak seasons.</td></tr><tr><td>Error Reduction</td><td>Automated workflows reduce human input, minimising the risk of file or data handling mistakes.</td></tr><tr><td>Scalability</td><td>Handle more orders without needing to increase staffing or resources.</td></tr><tr><td>Client Retention</td><td>A smooth, transparent, and efficient ordering experience keeps customers coming back.</td></tr></tbody></table>
Automation doesn’t just make operations faster; it makes them smarter. It allows your business to adapt to customer demand in real time, freeing your team to focus on higher-value activities like production optimisation, sales, and client relationships.
<h2>Final Thoughts: Why Web-to-Print Proofing is the Future</h2>
In a world where an estimated 50–60% of personalised print and merchandise orders are placed online, proofing has evolved from a quality control step to a critical business process. It protects PSPs and suppliers from unnecessary losses, safeguards brand integrity, and builds lasting customer trust.
When combined with automation tools like Vpress Web-to-Print, it becomes even more powerful - enabling 24/7 order capture, streamlined workflows, and error-free production all year round.
Now is the time to ensure your proofing and automation systems are in place and performing at their best. Because in print, as in business, Web-to-Print proof really does make perfect.

Founded over 20 years ago, [Vpress](/about "Vpress") is a pioneer and global leader in Web-to-Print and print automation solutions. Our market leading web to print platform [Coreprint](/products/coreprint "Coreprint") empowers print providers, marketing departments, and enterprises worldwide to streamline their print workflows, reduce costs, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

&nbsp;

Don't Risk the Reprint. See Proofing in Action. Request a personalised demo of the Vpress Coreprint platform today.

&nbsp;

Learn how Vpress can help your organisation simplify print ordering, scale efficiently, and build a more connected print ecosystem.

Ready to see the best in Web to Print Proofing?

The Power of Perfect Print: How Web-to-Print Proofing Protects Profit, Eliminates Errors, and Earns Client Trust

The global Procure-to-Pay (P2P) landscape is dominated by powerful, feature-rich software suites like SAP Ariba, Coupa, and Jaggaer. These platforms are brilliant at standardising transactions, enforcing contracts, and achieving spend visibility for simple, commodity items. They are the cornerstones of digital procurement.

However, they share a critical, often-overlooked limitation: they fundamentally struggle with the procurement of complex, customised, or variable print products.

This is where a modern Web to Print solution steps in, acting as the crucial piece of middleware that extends the capability of your multi-million-pound eProcurement system to handle everything from personalised business cards and bespoke stationery to complex marketing signage and branded merchandise.

## The Achilles' Heel of eProcurement: The Customisation Conundrum

Traditional eProcurement platforms are built on the principle of the Static SKU (Stock Keeping Unit). This works perfectly for simple, indirect spend goods:

*SKU 45291 = Black Pen, Box of 12 -&gt; Price: £15.00*

But when you try to procure a customised marketing brochure, the product definition explodes. Trying to manage every permutation of a complex product like this as a unique SKU directly within an ERP or eProcurement catalogue creates major enterprise headaches: **data overload, supplier management complexity**, and a frustrating, error-prone user experience. This is the gap that Web to Print software is specifically designed to fill.

## The Supplier's Dilemma: Catalogues and Order Chaos

While enterprises struggle with the buying experience, suppliers face an equally daunting challenge: maintaining accurate product data and efficiently processing orders. Standard P2P catalogue management systems demand that every product variation (even a business card with 10 variables) be represented by a vast, complex data file. This leads to data maintenance hell for the supplier, resulting in stale pricing, incorrect specifications, and a constant need for costly, manual updates.

A best-in-class Web to Print solution solves this by providing a single, intuitive Supplier Console. This platform allows the supplier to manage complex dynamic product templates, not thousands of rigid SKUs. Once configured, products are instantly published to the PunchOut catalogue. Crucially, when an order is received back from the P2P system, the Web to Print system processes the data into a clean, print-ready file, triggering fulfilment either directly through the portal's integrated workflow or via configurable automation channels straight into the supplier’s internal order fulfilment processes. This transforms a manual, high-risk workflow into a seamless, automated operation.

## Web to Print: The Engine for Complex Product Procurement

A modern, enterprise-grade Web to Print solution resolves this complexity by handling the product configuration outside the rigid data structures of the core eProcurement platform. This delivers a complete solution for print brand compliance.

### Beyond Print: The Advantage of Complexity

While the technology is called "Web to Print," its capability is no longer limited to paper. Because print items involve numerous interdependent variables (paper weight, coating, imposition, finishing, cutting, etc.), the underlying Web to Print logic is arguably the most robust dynamic configuration engine available in ProcureTech.

This means that once a Web to Print system is in place, managing other complex, branded, or customised products becomes comparatively easy:

* Branded Merchandise: Configure an item by size, colour, logo placement, and embroidery/print method.
* Uniforms/Apparel: Select size, gender, department, and custom patch location.
* Signage: Input dimensions and material (e.g., acrylic vs. vinyl) for an instant, accurate price.

The Web to Print system becomes a single complex product configurator gateway, centralising the procurement of all bespoke corporate assets.

### Enforcing Brand and Contract Compliance

The most powerful strategic role of Web to Print is its function as a brand governance tool.

When a Web to Print template controls the procurement process, it inherently prevents maverick spending and brand violation. Every item procured through the portal is guaranteed to use the approved vendor, the contracted pricing, and the official brand assets. The buyer is given creative freedom only within pre-defined, compliant guardrails, ensuring consistent brand application globally.

## The Technical Crux: Web to Print via PunchOut Catalogue Integration

The magic that allows Web to Print to work within the confines of an existing eProcurement system is the PunchOut Catalogue integration protocol. This is how the specialised Web to Print tool talks to the centralised P2P platform (SAP Ariba, Coupa, etc.) while ensuring financial control and process compliance are maintained.

### A Legacy of Integration Excellence:

Over 20 years ago, our Vpress technical team carried out one of the very first PunchOut roundtrip integrations for a major global organisation seeking to streamline its brand materials ordering. This pioneering work laid the foundation for the numerous successful integrations we have since delivered for some of the largest, most complex enterprises across the globe. We specialise in making the seamless connection between your world-class eProcurement software and the specialised needs of Web to Print.

### The PunchOut Process Flow (cXML)

1. **Entry**: The user logs into their SAP Ariba or Coupa application and finds a link to the approved print vendor's catalogue.
2. **PunchOut**: The user clicks the link, which sends a secure, encrypted message (typically using cXML) that "punches out" the user from the eProcurement site to the supplier's Web to Print storefront.
3. **Configuration**: The user configures their complex, customised item on the specialised Web to Print platform.
4. **Cart Return**: When the user clicks "Checkout" on the Web to Print site, the system packages the complex configuration and dynamic pricing into a single, structured line item and "punches back" the cart data into the user's shopping basket within the original eProcurement system.
5. **P2P Governance**: The eProcurement system takes back control. The item is now subject to the corporate approval hierarchy, budget controls, and Purchase Order (PO) creation processes.

## Strategic Benefits for the ProcureTech Industry

By leveraging a robust Web to Print solution, organisations transform the procurement of variable goods from a high-touch, error-prone, non-compliant process into a highly automated, self-service channel.

<table><thead><tr><td>Benefit</td><td>Impact on P2P Metrics (via Web to Print Solutions)</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Operational Efficiency</td><td>Reduced P2P Cycle Time: Eliminates manual steps (quoting, emailing, proofing) from the requisition-to-PO process.</td></tr><tr><td>Spend Under Management</td><td>100% Contract Compliance: Ensures every order uses pre-negotiated prices and approved vendors, dramatically reducing non-compliant spend.</td></tr><tr><td>Brand Management</td><td>Global Consistency: Guarantees all branded assets adhere to corporate guidelines, protecting brand equity.</td></tr></tbody></table>

## A Crucial Distinction: Not All Web to Print Companies are Equal

The concept of a "Web to Print storefront" is common, but the ability to execute the enterprise-level, **roundtrip PunchOut integration**, which is absolutely vital for ProcureTech governance, is not. This is a technical hurdle that separates niche solutions from genuine enterprise enablers.

> I believe we are on the cusp of more procurement organisations... realizing that the gains from better information far outweigh the costs of investment in specific technologies. Transformation is hard... but you have to just believe, 'okay, I have to keep talking about it'. They will come around, it's just natural.

Jason Busch, Founder of SpendMatters .

To realise the full efficiency and compliance gains referenced by industry experts like Mr. Busch, your Web to Print solution must be built for seamless, robust integration.

[Vpress](/about "About Vpress") was not only a pioneer in this complex integration space two decades ago but has continually evolved its platform to be a future-proof bridge between the complexity of customised products and the control of enterprise eProcurement. When seeking to finally conquer your complex product spend, choosing a proven, specialised integration provider is the most critical decision. **We believe Vpress offers the most reliable, battle-tested Web to Print solution for this purpose globally.**

The global Procure-to-Pay (P2P) landscape is dominated by powerful, feature-rich software suites like SAP Ariba, Coupa, and Jaggaer. These platforms are brilliant at standardising transactions, enforcing contracts, and achieving spend visibility for simple, commodity items. They are the cornerstones of digital procurement.
However, they share a critical, often-overlooked limitation: they fundamentally struggle with the procurement of complex, customised, or variable print products.
This is where a modern Web to Print solution steps in, acting as the crucial piece of middleware that extends the capability of your multi-million-pound eProcurement system to handle everything from personalised business cards and bespoke stationery to complex marketing signage and branded merchandise.
<h2>The Achilles' Heel of eProcurement: The Customisation Conundrum</h2>
Traditional eProcurement platforms are built on the principle of the Static SKU (Stock Keeping Unit). This works perfectly for simple, indirect spend goods:
SKU 45291 = Black Pen, Box of 12 -&gt; Price: £15.00
But when you try to procure a customised marketing brochure, the product definition explodes. Trying to manage every permutation of a complex product like this as a unique SKU directly within an ERP or eProcurement catalogue creates major enterprise headaches: data overload, supplier management complexity, and a frustrating, error-prone user experience. This is the gap that Web to Print software is specifically designed to fill.
<h2>The Supplier's Dilemma: Catalogues and Order Chaos</h2>
While enterprises struggle with the buying experience, suppliers face an equally daunting challenge: maintaining accurate product data and efficiently processing orders. Standard P2P catalogue management systems demand that every product variation (even a business card with 10 variables) be represented by a vast, complex data file. This leads to data maintenance hell for the supplier, resulting in stale pricing, incorrect specifications, and a constant need for costly, manual updates.
A best-in-class Web to Print solution solves this by providing a single, intuitive Supplier Console. This platform allows the supplier to manage complex dynamic product templates, not thousands of rigid SKUs. Once configured, products are instantly published to the PunchOut catalogue. Crucially, when an order is received back from the P2P system, the Web to Print system processes the data into a clean, print-ready file, triggering fulfilment either directly through the portal's integrated workflow or via configurable automation channels straight into the supplier’s internal order fulfilment processes. This transforms a manual, high-risk workflow into a seamless, automated operation.
<h2>Web to Print: The Engine for Complex Product Procurement</h2>
A modern, enterprise-grade Web to Print solution resolves this complexity by handling the product configuration outside the rigid data structures of the core eProcurement platform. This delivers a complete solution for print brand compliance.
<h3>Beyond Print: The Advantage of Complexity</h3>
While the technology is called &quot;Web to Print,&quot; its capability is no longer limited to paper. Because print items involve numerous interdependent variables (paper weight, coating, imposition, finishing, cutting, etc.), the underlying Web to Print logic is arguably the most robust dynamic configuration engine available in ProcureTech.
This means that once a Web to Print system is in place, managing other complex, branded, or customised products becomes comparatively easy:
<ul>
<li>Branded Merchandise: Configure an item by size, colour, logo placement, and embroidery/print method.</li>
<li>Uniforms/Apparel: Select size, gender, department, and custom patch location.</li>
<li>Signage: Input dimensions and material (e.g., acrylic vs. vinyl) for an instant, accurate price.</li>
</ul>
The Web to Print system becomes a single complex product configurator gateway, centralising the procurement of all bespoke corporate assets.
<h3>Enforcing Brand and Contract Compliance</h3>
The most powerful strategic role of Web to Print is its function as a brand governance tool.
When a Web to Print template controls the procurement process, it inherently prevents maverick spending and brand violation. Every item procured through the portal is guaranteed to use the approved vendor, the contracted pricing, and the official brand assets. The buyer is given creative freedom only within pre-defined, compliant guardrails, ensuring consistent brand application globally.
<h2>The Technical Crux: Web to Print via PunchOut Catalogue Integration</h2>
The magic that allows Web to Print to work within the confines of an existing eProcurement system is the PunchOut Catalogue integration protocol. This is how the specialised Web to Print tool talks to the centralised P2P platform (SAP Ariba, Coupa, etc.) while ensuring financial control and process compliance are maintained.
<h3>A Legacy of Integration Excellence:</h3>
Over 20 years ago, our Vpress technical team carried out one of the very first PunchOut roundtrip integrations for a major global organisation seeking to streamline its brand materials ordering. This pioneering work laid the foundation for the numerous successful integrations we have since delivered for some of the largest, most complex enterprises across the globe. We specialise in making the seamless connection between your world-class eProcurement software and the specialised needs of Web to Print.
<h3>The PunchOut Process Flow (cXML)</h3>
<ol>
<li>Entry: The user logs into their SAP Ariba or Coupa application and finds a link to the approved print vendor's catalogue.</li>
<li>PunchOut: The user clicks the link, which sends a secure, encrypted message (typically using cXML) that &quot;punches out&quot; the user from the eProcurement site to the supplier's Web to Print storefront.</li>
<li>Configuration: The user configures their complex, customised item on the specialised Web to Print platform.</li>
<li>Cart Return: When the user clicks &quot;Checkout&quot; on the Web to Print site, the system packages the complex configuration and dynamic pricing into a single, structured line item and &quot;punches back&quot; the cart data into the user's shopping basket within the original eProcurement system.</li>
<li>P2P Governance: The eProcurement system takes back control. The item is now subject to the corporate approval hierarchy, budget controls, and Purchase Order (PO) creation processes.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Strategic Benefits for the ProcureTech Industry</h2>
By leveraging a robust Web to Print solution, organisations transform the procurement of variable goods from a high-touch, error-prone, non-compliant process into a highly automated, self-service channel.
<table><thead><tr><td>Benefit</td><td>Impact on P2P Metrics (via Web to Print Solutions)</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Operational Efficiency</td><td>Reduced P2P Cycle Time: Eliminates manual steps (quoting, emailing, proofing) from the requisition-to-PO process.</td></tr><tr><td>Spend Under Management</td><td>100% Contract Compliance: Ensures every order uses pre-negotiated prices and approved vendors, dramatically reducing non-compliant spend.</td></tr><tr><td>Brand Management</td><td>Global Consistency: Guarantees all branded assets adhere to corporate guidelines, protecting brand equity.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<h2>A Crucial Distinction: Not All Web to Print Companies are Equal</h2>
The concept of a &quot;Web to Print storefront&quot; is common, but the ability to execute the enterprise-level, roundtrip PunchOut integration, which is absolutely vital for ProcureTech governance, is not. This is a technical hurdle that separates niche solutions from genuine enterprise enablers.
<blockquote>
I believe we are on the cusp of more procurement organisations... realizing that the gains from better information far outweigh the costs of investment in specific technologies. Transformation is hard... but you have to just believe, 'okay, I have to keep talking about it'. They will come around, it's just natural.
</blockquote>
Jason Busch, Founder of SpendMatters .
To realise the full efficiency and compliance gains referenced by industry experts like Mr. Busch, your Web to Print solution must be built for seamless, robust integration.
<a href="/about" title="About Vpress">Vpress</a> was not only a pioneer in this complex integration space two decades ago but has continually evolved its platform to be a future-proof bridge between the complexity of customised products and the control of enterprise eProcurement. When seeking to finally conquer your complex product spend, choosing a proven, specialised integration provider is the most critical decision. We believe Vpress offers the most reliable, battle-tested Web to Print solution for this purpose globally.

Whether you're an enterprise looking to gain control over customised spend and ensure brand consistency, or a supplier aiming to simplify product management and automate order fulfilment, **Vpress's Coreprint Web to Print** platform offers the solution.

Discover how our pioneering technology bridges the gap between complex products and efficient eProcurement for both buyers and suppliers.

Request a Demo of Coreprint today and unlock smarter, more compliant procurement.

Ready to Streamline Complex Product Procurement?

Web to Print Integration: The Crucial Bridge Solving the Complex Procurement Gap in ProcureTech

When you’re looking to invest in new technology, the first stop is often online reviews. They promise quick insights and a convenient shortcut to finding the best platform. In the fast-paced world of online print ordering and web-to-print software, this initial research is crucial—but as smart print providers know, building a successful, long-term business means looking beyond the star ratings.

We’ve all heard the stories: the slick, well-marketed platform that turns out to be unstable; the company that’s great at selling but disappears when you need support. Unfortunately, a few bad actors make it difficult to discern substance from spin, often using inflated reviews to mask a lack of genuine experience or crucial support infrastructure.

A web-to-print solution is a foundational investment in your business, not a quick purchase. You deserve a partner who will truly stand by your business for years to come.

Here’s what matters most when selecting web-to-print technology to power your print business—and how to separate fleeting marketing from a dependable, long-term partnership.

## The Problem with Spin: Why Star Ratings Aren't Enough

Software review sites were designed to help businesses make better decisions through shared experiences. Unfortunately, they’ve also become easy targets for manipulation. Some vendors—often startups or existing companies with little experience in new markets—pay third parties to post hundreds of fake five-star reviews or create false user profiles to boost visibility.

For print businesses, this is a serious problem. You depend on robust, stable, and secure platforms to manage customer interactions, orders, approvals, and workflows. When your core platform fails, it doesn't just slow operations—it can halt revenue in its tracks, impacting your entire print workflow.

## The Cost of Complacency: Why Choosing Wisely is Your Best ROI

Choosing the wrong web-to-print system isn’t like picking the wrong office chair. It’s a decision that affects your entire production process, your brand experience, and even your customer retention.

A flashy interface or glowing online testimonials can easily mask deeper issues, such as poor support, unreliable hosting, limited integration options, or vendors who simply don’t understand the operational realities of the print industry. Once your business is committed to a platform that can’t scale or deliver, switching can be incredibly disruptive and expensive.

That’s why careful, deep evaluation is vital. Your business deserves a web-to-print partner with substance.

As Benjamin Franklin wisely advised

> An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

This timeless wisdom applies directly to selecting your web-to-print partner...

## The True Measures of a Partner: What to Demand from Your Vendor

When evaluating a web-to-print solution provider, it’s essential to look beyond the star ratings and dig into the fundamentals of who they are, how they operate, and what they can prove.

### 1\. Proven Outcomes: Look for Decades, Not Days

A credible vendor should have genuine pedigree—a proven, measurable track record of success, not just marketing claims.

At Vpress, for example, we’ve spent over two decades developing, refining, and supporting web-to-print solutions used by commercial printers and marketing organisations across the globe. This level of experience guarantees the stability and enterprise-grade technology that only comes from continuous, well-supported innovation.

When reviewing any vendor, ask these foundational questions: How long have they truly been in the web to print sector? Can they demonstrate measurable success through verifiable case studies?

### 2\. Real-World Success: Demand Verifiable Case Studies

Fake reviews are easy to create; real, documented case studies are not.

Look for vendors who can provide transparent, detailed examples of how their web to print software solutions have improved customers’ workflows, reduced costs, or enabled growth.

We work closely with our partners to document real-world success stories, from streamlined print procurement systems to seamless integration with ERP, CRM, and MIS systems. These stories show what our software delivers in partnership.

### 3\. Long-Term Stability: Check the Financial Foundation

The web-to-print software you choose is a long-term investment. It’s critical that your vendor is financially solvent and independently owned, ensuring continuity and stability for years to come.

Vpress remains privately owned and financially independent, allowing us to focus on customer needs rather than external investor pressures. We consistently reinvest in development and support, ensuring that our clients benefit from innovation that is sustainable and strategically aligned with their goals.

### 4\. Trust and Security: Where Is the Code Built?

Many software vendors outsource their development entirely to unregulated offshore regions, often to reduce costs. While this might appear efficient, it can introduce major risks, from data security vulnerabilities to limited accountability.

At Vpress, all development is managed within regulated environments under strict compliance and security standards. This guarantees peace of mind that your data and your infrastructure are safe, secure, and responsibly managed by a trusted web-to-print provider.

### 5\. Future-Proofing: Is the Platform Open, Cloud-First, and Scalable?

Modern print businesses demand flexibility. A good software platform should be cloud-based, SaaS-driven, and scalable to meet both current needs and future demands.

Vpress’s Coreprint platform is built for this modern environment, offering seamless scalability and a secure cloud infrastructure that grows as you do. Our system is built with open integration options, enabling easy connectivity with your existing tools. Choosing an open, standards-based system ensures your software investment stays relevant and adaptable.

## Your Due Diligence Checklist: Separating Spin from Substance

So how can you move beyond the marketing noise and find an authentic technology partner? Here are some simple but powerful checks:

* **Ask for references and contact them directly.** Genuine vendors will be proud to connect you with satisfied, long-term customers who use their web to print solutions.
* **Investigate the commitment to constant evolution.** A trustworthy vendor should clearly articulate their development roadmap and demonstrate active, reliable updates during the demo. This shows they are committed to future-proofing the platform for years to come.
* [**Request a live demonstration**](/request-a-demonstration "Request a live demo") using your data and real-world workflows.
* **Engage with the team.** A trustworthy vendor has experts who understand both print and technology, not just salespeople.
* **Check their community presence.** Do they attend industry events, publish insights, or contribute to print innovation? Real vendors are visible and accountable.

## Trust is Built on Actions, Not Reviews

Your online print storefront and web-to-print platform is the engine of your business growth. It's a relationship based on trust, stability, and mutual success.

At Vpress, we’re proud to have built our reputation over two decades on genuine results, long-term partnerships, and continuous, stable innovation. We believe in providing the industry with enterprise-grade web-to-print technology, developed to the highest security standards, and supported by people who truly understand print.

When choosing your web-to-print provider, don’t just look for high scores. Look for the partner who is happy to put you in touch with real customers, who shows genuine stability, and whose future is tied to yours.

Choose a partner who is here to stay, and here to help you grow your print business. In business, as in life, the partnerships you forge define your path. As the old proverb suggests

> Show me your friends and I'll show you your future.

This holds true for your web-to-print provider...

## About Vpress

Founded over 20 years ago, [Vpress](/about "About Vpress") is a pioneer and global leader in **web-to-print** and **print automation solutions**. Our [Coreprint platform](/products/coreprint "Coreprint Web to Print") empowers print providers, marketing departments, and enterprises worldwide to streamline their print workflows, reduce costs, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Privately owned, financially secure, and developed entirely within regulated markets, Vpress is proud to set the industry standard for reliability, security, and **print industry innovation**.

When you’re looking to invest in new technology, the first stop is often online reviews. They promise quick insights and a convenient shortcut to finding the best platform. In the fast-paced world of online print ordering and web-to-print software, this initial research is crucial—but as smart print providers know, building a successful, long-term business means looking beyond the star ratings.
We’ve all heard the stories: the slick, well-marketed platform that turns out to be unstable; the company that’s great at selling but disappears when you need support. Unfortunately, a few bad actors make it difficult to discern substance from spin, often using inflated reviews to mask a lack of genuine experience or crucial support infrastructure.
A web-to-print solution is a foundational investment in your business, not a quick purchase. You deserve a partner who will truly stand by your business for years to come.
Here’s what matters most when selecting web-to-print technology to power your print business—and how to separate fleeting marketing from a dependable, long-term partnership.
<h2>The Problem with Spin: Why Star Ratings Aren't Enough</h2>
Software review sites were designed to help businesses make better decisions through shared experiences. Unfortunately, they’ve also become easy targets for manipulation. Some vendors—often startups or existing companies with little experience in new markets—pay third parties to post hundreds of fake five-star reviews or create false user profiles to boost visibility.
For print businesses, this is a serious problem. You depend on robust, stable, and secure platforms to manage customer interactions, orders, approvals, and workflows. When your core platform fails, it doesn't just slow operations—it can halt revenue in its tracks, impacting your entire print workflow.
<h2>The Cost of Complacency: Why Choosing Wisely is Your Best ROI</h2>
Choosing the wrong web-to-print system isn’t like picking the wrong office chair. It’s a decision that affects your entire production process, your brand experience, and even your customer retention.
A flashy interface or glowing online testimonials can easily mask deeper issues, such as poor support, unreliable hosting, limited integration options, or vendors who simply don’t understand the operational realities of the print industry. Once your business is committed to a platform that can’t scale or deliver, switching can be incredibly disruptive and expensive.
That’s why careful, deep evaluation is vital. Your business deserves a web-to-print partner with substance.
As Benjamin Franklin wisely advised
<blockquote>
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
</blockquote>
This timeless wisdom applies directly to selecting your web-to-print partner...
<h2>The True Measures of a Partner: What to Demand from Your Vendor</h2>
When evaluating a web-to-print solution provider, it’s essential to look beyond the star ratings and dig into the fundamentals of who they are, how they operate, and what they can prove.
<h3>1. Proven Outcomes: Look for Decades, Not Days</h3>
A credible vendor should have genuine pedigree—a proven, measurable track record of success, not just marketing claims.
At Vpress, for example, we’ve spent over two decades developing, refining, and supporting web-to-print solutions used by commercial printers and marketing organisations across the globe. This level of experience guarantees the stability and enterprise-grade technology that only comes from continuous, well-supported innovation.
When reviewing any vendor, ask these foundational questions: How long have they truly been in the web to print sector? Can they demonstrate measurable success through verifiable case studies?
<h3>2. Real-World Success: Demand Verifiable Case Studies</h3>
Fake reviews are easy to create; real, documented case studies are not.
Look for vendors who can provide transparent, detailed examples of how their web to print software solutions have improved customers’ workflows, reduced costs, or enabled growth.
We work closely with our partners to document real-world success stories, from streamlined print procurement systems to seamless integration with ERP, CRM, and MIS systems. These stories show what our software delivers in partnership.
<h3>3. Long-Term Stability: Check the Financial Foundation</h3>
The web-to-print software you choose is a long-term investment. It’s critical that your vendor is financially solvent and independently owned, ensuring continuity and stability for years to come.
Vpress remains privately owned and financially independent, allowing us to focus on customer needs rather than external investor pressures. We consistently reinvest in development and support, ensuring that our clients benefit from innovation that is sustainable and strategically aligned with their goals.
<h3>4. Trust and Security: Where Is the Code Built?</h3>
Many software vendors outsource their development entirely to unregulated offshore regions, often to reduce costs. While this might appear efficient, it can introduce major risks, from data security vulnerabilities to limited accountability.
At Vpress, all development is managed within regulated environments under strict compliance and security standards. This guarantees peace of mind that your data and your infrastructure are safe, secure, and responsibly managed by a trusted web-to-print provider.
<h3>5. Future-Proofing: Is the Platform Open, Cloud-First, and Scalable?</h3>
Modern print businesses demand flexibility. A good software platform should be cloud-based, SaaS-driven, and scalable to meet both current needs and future demands.
Vpress’s Coreprint platform is built for this modern environment, offering seamless scalability and a secure cloud infrastructure that grows as you do. Our system is built with open integration options, enabling easy connectivity with your existing tools. Choosing an open, standards-based system ensures your software investment stays relevant and adaptable.
<h2>Your Due Diligence Checklist: Separating Spin from Substance</h2>
So how can you move beyond the marketing noise and find an authentic technology partner? Here are some simple but powerful checks:
<ul>
<li>Ask for references and contact them directly. Genuine vendors will be proud to connect you with satisfied, long-term customers who use their web to print solutions.</li>
<li>Investigate the commitment to constant evolution. A trustworthy vendor should clearly articulate their development roadmap and demonstrate active, reliable updates during the demo. This shows they are committed to future-proofing the platform for years to come.</li>
<li><a href="/request-a-demonstration" title="Request a live demo">Request a live demonstration</a> using your data and real-world workflows.</li>
<li>Engage with the team. A trustworthy vendor has experts who understand both print and technology, not just salespeople.</li>
<li>Check their community presence. Do they attend industry events, publish insights, or contribute to print innovation? Real vendors are visible and accountable.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Trust is Built on Actions, Not Reviews</h2>
Your online print storefront and web-to-print platform is the engine of your business growth. It's a relationship based on trust, stability, and mutual success.
At Vpress, we’re proud to have built our reputation over two decades on genuine results, long-term partnerships, and continuous, stable innovation. We believe in providing the industry with enterprise-grade web-to-print technology, developed to the highest security standards, and supported by people who truly understand print.
When choosing your web-to-print provider, don’t just look for high scores. Look for the partner who is happy to put you in touch with real customers, who shows genuine stability, and whose future is tied to yours.
Choose a partner who is here to stay, and here to help you grow your print business. In business, as in life, the partnerships you forge define your path. As the old proverb suggests
<blockquote>
Show me your friends and I'll show you your future.
</blockquote>
This holds true for your web-to-print provider...
<h2>About Vpress</h2>
Founded over 20 years ago, <a href="/about" title="About Vpress">Vpress</a> is a pioneer and global leader in web-to-print and print automation solutions. Our <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Coreprint Web to Print">Coreprint platform</a> empowers print providers, marketing departments, and enterprises worldwide to streamline their print workflows, reduce costs, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
Privately owned, financially secure, and developed entirely within regulated markets, Vpress is proud to set the industry standard for reliability, security, and print industry innovation.

The best way to evaluate a true technology partner is to experience their platform firsthand. Request a personalized demo of the Coreprint solution and discover how Vpress can help your organisation simplify **online print ordering**, scale efficiently, and build a more connected print ecosystem.

Ready to See the Difference?

The Smart Buyer's Guide to Web-to-Print: Finding a Partner, Not Just a Platform

**Vpress: Partnering with Procurement & Marketing Leaders**

In today's digital-first economy, the tools businesses use for mission-critical functions must be accessible to every single user, without exception. This is especially true for web-to-print applications, which serve everyone from the marketing team and HR, to individual employees across the organisation ordering essential materials.

At Vpress, we believe accessibility is not a niche feature, but a foundational requirement. We've dedicated significant resources to developing an industry-leading web-to-print application that can be used effectively by everyone, including the millions of people living with a visual disability.

## The Overlooked Imperative: Why Accessibility is a Procurement Factor

When choosing a **web-to-print partner**, many corporate buyers focus on templates, pricing, and integration. But there’s a critical question that directly impacts organisational efficiency and legal compliance that often goes unasked: **Can all of my users actually** ***use*** **it?**

Globally, the scale of visual impairment is significant. According to the World Health Organisation, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment. This means a substantial portion of the global workforce, customer base, and wider community may encounter barriers with inaccessible digital tools. For your organisation, this translates into a large segment of potential users who could be excluded if your web-to-print solution isn't universally designed.

The decision to adopt an accessible platform is a critical business choice for several reasons:

1. **Ensuring Total Workforce Engagement**: If a single employee—due to a visual disability—cannot independently order business cards or marketing collateral, the process breaks down. An accessible platform guarantees that every member of your staff can participate fully in corporate ordering workflows.
2. **Mitigating Risk & Demonstrating Compliance**: While the focus of this blog is on genuine care, the reality is that major corporates need to meet robust inclusion standards. Choosing an accessible solution provides confidence that your B2B tools align with modern disability and equality regulations. 

 **The Universal Principle**

 > The power of the Web is in its universality. Access by everyone regardless of disability is an essential aspect.

 *— Tim Berners-Lee, Inventor of the World Wide Web*

![Tim Berners-Lee](/uploads/accessibility-tbl.jpg "Tim Berners-Lee")

## The Strategic Advantage: Accessibility and Brand Trust

For our corporate clients, the return on investment (ROI) in accessibility is seen in two key areas that are highly searched for by procurement teams:

* **Brand Reputation & Values**: Partnering with a genuinely inclusive platform demonstrates a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) values. This is an increasing expectation for modern corporate procurement and helps protect your brand's image.
* **A Truly Universal Solution**: Features that improve accessibility also dramatically improve overall usability for all users. Clear keyboard navigation, high-contrast colours, and a logical structure make the ordering process faster and less error-prone for everyone, regardless of ability. 

 **Corporate Insight: **

 In the UK alone, over two million people are living with sight loss that is severe enough to impact their daily lives. By selecting a fully **accessible web-to-print solution**, you ensure your company is inclusive and maximises the productivity of its entire workforce.

## Built for Everyone: Vpress’s Genuine Commitment to Visual Accessibility

Our development team has worked tirelessly to ensure the Coreprint application is fully functional and intuitive for users relying on assistive technologies. We understand that a **web-to-print application** is only useful if every user can successfully navigate, customise, and place an order.

This commitment has led to our platform being trusted and adopted by some of the UK's most prominent charities and organisations dedicated to supporting individuals with visual impairments. **They have chosen our application because it meets their rigorous standards for usability and inclusivity, allowing their teams to manage print assets with confidence and independence.**

Here is a glimpse of the technical features that define our accessible design:

* **Full Screen Reader Compatibility** : Proper use of ARIA attributes and semantic HTML ensures that popular screen readers can correctly interpret the page structure, reading out form fields, buttons, and design elements in a logical order.
* **Total Keyboard Navigation** : The entire application, from login to checkout, can be operated using only the Tab and Enter keys, without the need for a mouse. This is essential for users with visual disabilities and motor impairments.
* **Optimised Colour Contrast** : We strictly adhere to WCAG Level AA guidelines for colour contrast, ensuring text and interactive elements are clearly legible for users with low vision or colour blindness.
* **Logical Content Structure** : Our platform uses clear, hierarchical heading structures and proper tagging, allowing users to "skim" a page using their screen reader and quickly jump to relevant sections.

## Why We Don't Treat This as a Tick-Box Exercise

At Vpress, we refuse to treat accessibility as a simple feature to check off. We know this is a continuous responsibility, not a destination.

**The True Measure of Improvement**

> How many opportunities do we have to dramatically improve people’s lives just by doing our job a little better?

*— Steve Krug, UX Author & Consultant*

While formal accreditations can be useful, our primary focus is on the lived experience of our users. We continuously test, gather feedback, and make improvements to ensure our product is genuinely usable and not just technically compliant. Our goal is to meet and exceed global accessibility standards to ensure our **web-to-print platform** is truly inclusive and reliable for your corporate users.

## Take the Next Step: Invest in an Inclusive Platform

When you are searching for the right **web-to-print partner**, you are making a decision that impacts every single user in your organisation.

Demand a platform that is truly inclusive. Demand a platform that has a proven track record of acceptance by organisations that champion visual disability support.

If you are seeking an **industry-leading web-to-print application** that provides superior usability, reduces friction, and aligns with your corporate values, it’s time to talk to Vpress.

Vpress: Partnering with Procurement &amp; Marketing Leaders
In today's digital-first economy, the tools businesses use for mission-critical functions must be accessible to every single user, without exception. This is especially true for web-to-print applications, which serve everyone from the marketing team and HR, to individual employees across the organisation ordering essential materials.
At Vpress, we believe accessibility is not a niche feature, but a foundational requirement. We've dedicated significant resources to developing an industry-leading web-to-print application that can be used effectively by everyone, including the millions of people living with a visual disability.
<h2>The Overlooked Imperative: Why Accessibility is a Procurement Factor</h2>
When choosing a web-to-print partner, many corporate buyers focus on templates, pricing, and integration. But there’s a critical question that directly impacts organisational efficiency and legal compliance that often goes unasked: Can all of my users actually use it?
Globally, the scale of visual impairment is significant. According to the World Health Organisation, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment. This means a substantial portion of the global workforce, customer base, and wider community may encounter barriers with inaccessible digital tools. For your organisation, this translates into a large segment of potential users who could be excluded if your web-to-print solution isn't universally designed.
The decision to adopt an accessible platform is a critical business choice for several reasons:
<ol>
<li>
Ensuring Total Workforce Engagement: If a single employee—due to a visual disability—cannot independently order business cards or marketing collateral, the process breaks down. An accessible platform guarantees that every member of your staff can participate fully in corporate ordering workflows.
</li>
<li>
Mitigating Risk &amp; Demonstrating Compliance: While the focus of this blog is on genuine care, the reality is that major corporates need to meet robust inclusion standards. Choosing an accessible solution provides confidence that your B2B tools align with modern disability and equality regulations. 
The Universal Principle
<blockquote>
The power of the Web is in its universality. Access by everyone regardless of disability is an essential aspect.
</blockquote>
— Tim Berners-Lee, Inventor of the World Wide Web
</li>
</ol>
<img src="/uploads/accessibility-tbl.jpg" alt="Tim Berners-Lee" title="Tim Berners-Lee">
<h2>The Strategic Advantage: Accessibility and Brand Trust</h2>
For our corporate clients, the return on investment (ROI) in accessibility is seen in two key areas that are highly searched for by procurement teams:
<ul>
<li>
Brand Reputation &amp; Values: Partnering with a genuinely inclusive platform demonstrates a commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&amp;I) values. This is an increasing expectation for modern corporate procurement and helps protect your brand's image.
</li>
<li>
A Truly Universal Solution: Features that improve accessibility also dramatically improve overall usability for all users. Clear keyboard navigation, high-contrast colours, and a logical structure make the ordering process faster and less error-prone for everyone, regardless of ability. 
Corporate Insight: 
In the UK alone, over two million people are living with sight loss that is severe enough to impact their daily lives. By selecting a fully accessible web-to-print solution, you ensure your company is inclusive and maximises the productivity of its entire workforce.
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Built for Everyone: Vpress’s Genuine Commitment to Visual Accessibility</h2>
Our development team has worked tirelessly to ensure the Coreprint application is fully functional and intuitive for users relying on assistive technologies. We understand that a web-to-print application is only useful if every user can successfully navigate, customise, and place an order.
This commitment has led to our platform being trusted and adopted by some of the UK's most prominent charities and organisations dedicated to supporting individuals with visual impairments. They have chosen our application because it meets their rigorous standards for usability and inclusivity, allowing their teams to manage print assets with confidence and independence.
Here is a glimpse of the technical features that define our accessible design:
<ul>
<li>Full Screen Reader Compatibility : Proper use of ARIA attributes and semantic HTML ensures that popular screen readers can correctly interpret the page structure, reading out form fields, buttons, and design elements in a logical order.</li>
<li>Total Keyboard Navigation : The entire application, from login to checkout, can be operated using only the Tab and Enter keys, without the need for a mouse. This is essential for users with visual disabilities and motor impairments.</li>
<li>Optimised Colour Contrast : We strictly adhere to WCAG Level AA guidelines for colour contrast, ensuring text and interactive elements are clearly legible for users with low vision or colour blindness.</li>
<li>Logical Content Structure : Our platform uses clear, hierarchical heading structures and proper tagging, allowing users to &quot;skim&quot; a page using their screen reader and quickly jump to relevant sections.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Why We Don't Treat This as a Tick-Box Exercise</h2>
At Vpress, we refuse to treat accessibility as a simple feature to check off. We know this is a continuous responsibility, not a destination.
The True Measure of Improvement
<blockquote>
How many opportunities do we have to dramatically improve people’s lives just by doing our job a little better?
</blockquote>
— Steve Krug, UX Author &amp; Consultant
While formal accreditations can be useful, our primary focus is on the lived experience of our users. We continuously test, gather feedback, and make improvements to ensure our product is genuinely usable and not just technically compliant. Our goal is to meet and exceed global accessibility standards to ensure our web-to-print platform is truly inclusive and reliable for your corporate users.
<h2>Take the Next Step: Invest in an Inclusive Platform</h2>
When you are searching for the right web-to-print partner, you are making a decision that impacts every single user in your organisation.
Demand a platform that is truly inclusive. Demand a platform that has a proven track record of acceptance by organisations that champion visual disability support.
If you are seeking an industry-leading web-to-print application that provides superior usability, reduces friction, and aligns with your corporate values, it’s time to talk to Vpress.

Contact Us Today for a Demo and See Why Our Accessible Web-to-Print is the Right Choice.

Ready for Accessible Web-to-Print?

Beyond the Visual: Why Accessible Web-to-Print is a Corporate Responsibility and a Critical Business Choice

In today’s fast-paced, brand-conscious world, **multi-site organisations face a unique challenge**: how to maintain **brand consistency, streamline print procurement, and control costs across different locations**. Whether you're a retail chain, a franchise network, a healthcare provider, or a university with multiple campuses, the complexity of managing print assets - brochures, signage, business cards, ID, and more, can quickly spiral out of control. Before you know it, different suppliers are using different processes, weakening your brand at differing costs.

This isn't just a logistical problem; it's a "multi-location headache." The good news is, there's a cure: an online **Web-to-Print system**. This solution empowers organisations to **centralise, automate, and optimise their print operations while safeguarding brand** integrity and unlocking substantial savings.

## 1\. The 'Rogue' Location

One of the most critical concerns for any organisation with multiple sites is **brand consistency**. When local teams order print materials independently, the risk of off-brand colours, outdated logos, or inconsistent messaging skyrockets. This not only dilutes your brand identity but can also erode customer trust.

###### The Cure: Centralised Control and Pre-Approved Templates

A Web-to-Print solution acts as a centralised brand guardian. Marketing teams can upload **brand-compliant templates** that local users can customise only within defined parameters, ensuring fonts, colours, and layouts remain consistent. This eliminates the risk of outdated materials being used. A good Web-to-Print system often comes with a form of Digital Asset Management (DAM) to assist in this, acting as a centralised repository for logos, images, and copy. With these controls in place, **your brand becomes bulletproof, no matter how many locations you operate**.

> For us, brand consistency is the bedrock of customer trust. Without a single source of truth for all our print materials, we were constantly fighting a battle against diluted messaging and off-brand assets. A robust Web-to-Print system wasn't just a choice; it was a non-negotiable part of our brand strategy.

CMO, FinTech, Houston, TX, USA

## 2\. The Bottleneck of Manual Processes

Traditional print procurement often involves emailing files, chasing approvals, and coordinating with suppliers—an inefficient and error-prone process. This creates a bottleneck that slows down everything from a new store opening to a seasonal campaign launch.

###### The Cure: 24/7 Self-Service and Automated Workflows

A secure Web-to-Print platform eliminates these bottlenecks by offering a cloud-based interface accessible from any device, anywhere. This means **local teams can self-serve**: staff at individual sites can log in, select the materials they need, customise them within brand guidelines, and place orders, all without waiting for head office (unless approval is required). The result? **Faster turnaround times, fewer errors, and a more agile print operation**. This frees up your marketing and procurement teams to focus on strategy rather than chasing down files.

> Before we had a centralised platform, every print job was a manual headache. I was spending hours emailing files, chasing approvals, and correcting errors. The self-service nature of our Web-to-Print system has given my team back their time and empowers them to get what they need, exactly when they need it.

Regional Manager, Healthcare Provider, Birmingham, UK

## 3\. The 'Black Hole' of Spend

Print budgets can balloon quickly when each site negotiates with different suppliers, places small ad-hoc orders, or duplicates efforts. You're left with a spending "black hole" where you lack transparency and control.

###### The Cure: Data-Driven Insights and Consolidated Purchasing

A Web-to-Print system flips this model on its head, delivering significant cost efficiencies. Orders from multiple sites can be aggregated, unlocking volume discounts and reducing shipping costs.

Where necessary it should **seemlessly integrate with your internal procurement solution**, typically via **punchout roundtrip**, but also be at home operating as a standalone solution with built-in analytics and reporting tools, you can track usage, costs, and performance across all sites. This enables **smarter budgeting** by helping you understand which locations are spending the most and why. In short, you move from reactive print management to proactive optimisation, gaining greater control over spend and supplier performance.

> The lack of visibility in our print spend was a major concern. Without a centralised system, we couldn't track what each location was ordering, let alone leverage our collective volume for discounts. The data and transparency we now have are invaluable—it's turned our print budget from a chaotic expense into a manageable, strategic asset.

Procurement Director, University, UK

## 4\. Lack of Security and Accountability

When dealing with sensitive data, such as personalised mailers or internal documents, **security is non-negotiable**. Furthermore, without a clear audit trail, it’s difficult to hold individuals accountable for their actions.

###### The Cure: Enterprise-Grade Security and Role-Based Access

A robust Web-to-Print system offers **enterprise-grade protection to ensure your data stays safe**. It provides user authentication and role-based access, so only authorised users can access specific templates or data, reducing the risk of misuse. Every action is logged, providing full visibility and a clear audit trail. This is essential for compliance and accountability, giving you peace of mind as you scale your operations.

> As we scaled, our data security needs became paramount. We needed a solution that was not only user-friendly but also provided enterprise-grade protection. The role-based access and audit trails of our system gave us the confidence to scale our print operations without compromising security or accountability.

IT Director, Vet Pharma, UK

## 5\. Strained Supplier Relationships

Working with multiple, disconnected suppliers for different locations can lead to miscommunication, errors, and a **fragmented supply chain**.

###### The Cure: Streamlined Supplier Integration

A Web-to-Print solution doesn’t just benefit your internal teams; it also transforms how you engage with your print suppliers. By **integrating approved print vendors directly into the platform**, you create a transparent, collaborative environment. Suppliers receive orders directly through the system with all the necessary specifications, which reduces errors and back-and-forth communication. You can also monitor supplier KPIs in real-time, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement. So as your organisation grows, your supplier network can scale with you without adding complexity.

> Our relationships with print vendors used to be a fragmented, transactional mess. We were constantly juggling multiple contacts and processes. Consolidating the number of suppliers and integrating them into a single platform has completely transformed this. It’s not about just placing an order anymore; it’s about a true partnership built on transparency and efficiency. It has made our entire supply chain more reliable.

Operations Director, National Franchise Chain, UK

![A smarter way for multi-location organisations to mange print](/uploads/400-multi-locations.png "A smarter way for multi-location organisations to mange print")

## Conclusion: A Smarter Way to Print

In a world where brand consistency, operational efficiency, and cost control are paramount, a secure online Web-to-Print system is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. For **multi-site organisations, it offers a powerful blend of control and flexibility**, enabling you to manage your print assets with precision, protect your brand identity, and unlock meaningful savings.

Whether you're just starting to explore a Web-to-Print solution or looking to upgrade your existing one, the message is clear: **the future of print is secure, online, and smarter than ever**.

For nearly two and a half decades, [Vpress](/about "About Vpress") has been providing market-leading solutions for many of the world’s largest organisations, with award-winning customer service globally. We truly believe in “partnering our customers to success.”

In today’s fast-paced, brand-conscious world, multi-site organisations face a unique challenge: how to maintain brand consistency, streamline print procurement, and control costs across different locations. Whether you're a retail chain, a franchise network, a healthcare provider, or a university with multiple campuses, the complexity of managing print assets - brochures, signage, business cards, ID, and more, can quickly spiral out of control. Before you know it, different suppliers are using different processes, weakening your brand at differing costs.
This isn't just a logistical problem; it's a &quot;multi-location headache.&quot; The good news is, there's a cure: an online Web-to-Print system. This solution empowers organisations to centralise, automate, and optimise their print operations while safeguarding brand integrity and unlocking substantial savings.
<h2>1. The 'Rogue' Location</h2>
One of the most critical concerns for any organisation with multiple sites is brand consistency. When local teams order print materials independently, the risk of off-brand colours, outdated logos, or inconsistent messaging skyrockets. This not only dilutes your brand identity but can also erode customer trust.
<h6>The Cure: Centralised Control and Pre-Approved Templates</h6>
A Web-to-Print solution acts as a centralised brand guardian. Marketing teams can upload brand-compliant templates that local users can customise only within defined parameters, ensuring fonts, colours, and layouts remain consistent. This eliminates the risk of outdated materials being used. A good Web-to-Print system often comes with a form of Digital Asset Management (DAM) to assist in this, acting as a centralised repository for logos, images, and copy. With these controls in place, your brand becomes bulletproof, no matter how many locations you operate.
<blockquote>
For us, brand consistency is the bedrock of customer trust. Without a single source of truth for all our print materials, we were constantly fighting a battle against diluted messaging and off-brand assets. A robust Web-to-Print system wasn't just a choice; it was a non-negotiable part of our brand strategy.
</blockquote>
CMO, FinTech, Houston, TX, USA
<h2>2. The Bottleneck of Manual Processes</h2>
Traditional print procurement often involves emailing files, chasing approvals, and coordinating with suppliers—an inefficient and error-prone process. This creates a bottleneck that slows down everything from a new store opening to a seasonal campaign launch.
<h6>The Cure: 24/7 Self-Service and Automated Workflows</h6>
A secure Web-to-Print platform eliminates these bottlenecks by offering a cloud-based interface accessible from any device, anywhere. This means local teams can self-serve: staff at individual sites can log in, select the materials they need, customise them within brand guidelines, and place orders, all without waiting for head office (unless approval is required). The result? Faster turnaround times, fewer errors, and a more agile print operation. This frees up your marketing and procurement teams to focus on strategy rather than chasing down files.
<blockquote>
Before we had a centralised platform, every print job was a manual headache. I was spending hours emailing files, chasing approvals, and correcting errors. The self-service nature of our Web-to-Print system has given my team back their time and empowers them to get what they need, exactly when they need it.
</blockquote>
Regional Manager, Healthcare Provider, Birmingham, UK
<h2>3. The 'Black Hole' of Spend</h2>
Print budgets can balloon quickly when each site negotiates with different suppliers, places small ad-hoc orders, or duplicates efforts. You're left with a spending &quot;black hole&quot; where you lack transparency and control.
<h6>The Cure: Data-Driven Insights and Consolidated Purchasing</h6>
A Web-to-Print system flips this model on its head, delivering significant cost efficiencies. Orders from multiple sites can be aggregated, unlocking volume discounts and reducing shipping costs.
Where necessary it should seemlessly integrate with your internal procurement solution, typically via punchout roundtrip, but also be at home operating as a standalone solution with built-in analytics and reporting tools, you can track usage, costs, and performance across all sites. This enables smarter budgeting by helping you understand which locations are spending the most and why. In short, you move from reactive print management to proactive optimisation, gaining greater control over spend and supplier performance.
<blockquote>
The lack of visibility in our print spend was a major concern. Without a centralised system, we couldn't track what each location was ordering, let alone leverage our collective volume for discounts. The data and transparency we now have are invaluable—it's turned our print budget from a chaotic expense into a manageable, strategic asset.
</blockquote>
Procurement Director, University, UK
<h2>4. Lack of Security and Accountability</h2>
When dealing with sensitive data, such as personalised mailers or internal documents, security is non-negotiable. Furthermore, without a clear audit trail, it’s difficult to hold individuals accountable for their actions.
<h6>The Cure: Enterprise-Grade Security and Role-Based Access</h6>
A robust Web-to-Print system offers enterprise-grade protection to ensure your data stays safe. It provides user authentication and role-based access, so only authorised users can access specific templates or data, reducing the risk of misuse. Every action is logged, providing full visibility and a clear audit trail. This is essential for compliance and accountability, giving you peace of mind as you scale your operations.
<blockquote>
As we scaled, our data security needs became paramount. We needed a solution that was not only user-friendly but also provided enterprise-grade protection. The role-based access and audit trails of our system gave us the confidence to scale our print operations without compromising security or accountability.
</blockquote>
IT Director, Vet Pharma, UK
<h2>5. Strained Supplier Relationships</h2>
Working with multiple, disconnected suppliers for different locations can lead to miscommunication, errors, and a fragmented supply chain.
<h6>The Cure: Streamlined Supplier Integration</h6>
A Web-to-Print solution doesn’t just benefit your internal teams; it also transforms how you engage with your print suppliers. By integrating approved print vendors directly into the platform, you create a transparent, collaborative environment. Suppliers receive orders directly through the system with all the necessary specifications, which reduces errors and back-and-forth communication. You can also monitor supplier KPIs in real-time, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement. So as your organisation grows, your supplier network can scale with you without adding complexity.
<blockquote>
Our relationships with print vendors used to be a fragmented, transactional mess. We were constantly juggling multiple contacts and processes. Consolidating the number of suppliers and integrating them into a single platform has completely transformed this. It’s not about just placing an order anymore; it’s about a true partnership built on transparency and efficiency. It has made our entire supply chain more reliable.
</blockquote>
Operations Director, National Franchise Chain, UK
<img src="/uploads/400-multi-locations.png" alt="A smarter way for multi-location organisations to mange print" title="A smarter way for multi-location organisations to mange print">
<h2>Conclusion: A Smarter Way to Print</h2>
In a world where brand consistency, operational efficiency, and cost control are paramount, a secure online Web-to-Print system is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. For multi-site organisations, it offers a powerful blend of control and flexibility, enabling you to manage your print assets with precision, protect your brand identity, and unlock meaningful savings.
Whether you're just starting to explore a Web-to-Print solution or looking to upgrade your existing one, the message is clear: the future of print is secure, online, and smarter than ever.
For nearly two and a half decades, <a href="/about" title="About Vpress">Vpress</a> has been providing market-leading solutions for many of the world’s largest organisations, with award-winning customer service globally. We truly believe in “partnering our customers to success.”

Thousands of successful businesses have transformed their operations—yours can too. Begin your journey today with our powerful Web-to-Print solution

Ready to Transform Your Business?

The Multi-Location Headache: 5 Ways Web-to-Print Cures Brand Chaos

In today’s digital-first world, **brand integrity is one of the most valuable assets an organisation can protect**. Whether you are a global enterprise operating across multiple regions or a fast-growing company expanding into new markets, maintaining **brand consistency is critical to success**.

When brand assets become fragmented with outdated logos, inconsistent messaging, or unauthorised suppliers, the result is a **weakened brand presence that confuses customers and dilutes impact**. A web-to-print system solves this challenge by centralising brand control and ensuring that every piece of collateral, whether print or digital, adheres to global standards.

> A brand is the set of expectations, memories, stories, and relationships that, taken together, account for a consumer’s decision to choose one product or service over another.

![Seth Godin](/uploads/sethgodinorange-600.png "Seth Godin")

— [Seth Godin](https://www.sethgodin.com/ "Seth's Site"), Marketing Guru

## What is a Web-to-Print System?

A [web-to-print solution](/resources/web-to-print-guide "What is Web to Print") is a cloud-based platform (often referred to as SaaS – Software as a Service) that allows organisations to centralise, customise, and distribute brand materials securely. While historically focused on printed collateral, modern web-to-print systems incorporate Digital Asset Management (DAM) platforms, locking down copy, protecting logos, and streamlining ordering processes with global suppliers.

This makes them a vital tool not just for print, but for any brand touchpoint.

## The Challenge of Maintaining Brand Control Across Markets

Expanding into multiple markets creates complexity. Different teams, suppliers, and languages can quickly lead to:

* **Outdated artwork** and logos appearing on collateral.
* **Incorrect product copy** on packaging or sales materials.
* **Unapproved colour palettes** or designs weakening visual consistency.
* Local suppliers producing **off-brand, low-quality materials**.

**Each inconsistency chips away at your reputation**. Customers may not consciously notice every detail, but the overall impression is clear: **a fragmented brand feels less trustworthy.**

> **Real-World Example**: A global tech company, with their headquarters in California rebrands with a new logo and colour palette. However, their regional offices in London and Tokyo are still using the old materials for their sales brochures and business cards because they haven't been updated. A potential client in Europe receives an old brochure and sees the outdated logo on the company’s website. This simple misalignment creates a subconscious sense of disorganisation and unreliability. A centralised web-to-print portal would have made the new design instantly available to all offices, ensuring brand integrity worldwide.

A centralised web-to-print system eliminates these risks by keeping **every market aligned to the same standards**.

![Centralised web to print](/uploads/brand-1-400-1.png "Centralised web to print")

## The Power of Centralisation with SaaS and DAM

At the core of modern web-to-print systems is **centralisation**. By utilising a Digital Asset Manager (DAM), companies can store and update assets in one secure location.

Benefits include:

* A **single source of truth** for logos, images, and design templates.
* **Instant updates**—when a logo is refreshed, it changes globally.
* **Easy access** for teams and suppliers worldwide.

This not only *saves time* but ensures no team is left guessing which version of a file to use.

## Locking Down Approved Copy and Messaging

While visuals often get the spotlight, **copy control is equally important**. Product descriptions, compliance statements, and marketing messages all shape customer perception.

Web-to-print solutions allow businesses to:

* **Lock down approved product copy** in templates.
* Provide local teams with **flexible fields** (such as contact details or translations).
* **Prevent unapproved alterations** that could cause compliance or brand issues.

The result is a balance of **local agility with global control**—empowering regional teams while protecting the brand’s integrity.

## Streamlining Global Ordering and Supplier Control

One of the most powerful features of web-to-print is the ability to **connect directly with authorised global suppliers**. This ensures:

* Orders are produced only by **trusted, quality-assured vendors**.
* Local teams **cannot bypass the process** with unapproved commercial printers.
* A **full audit trail** is available for brand and procurement teams.

By automating the print on demand and ordering process through the system, businesses reduce errors, avoid delays, and ensure every printed item meets brand standards. With a well-integrated supplier base, you may even find **better pricing with deeper integration**.

## Why Print Remains the Hardest Element of Brand Control

Despite the growth of digital marketing, print remains one of the most difficult areas to control. Unlike digital assets, which can be updated instantly, printed materials often linger in circulation long after they are outdated.

Old brochures, manuals, or sales collateral with retired logos or incorrect information damage credibility. Customers assume the materials are current, but instead, they’re engaging with a weakened brand presence.

> **Real-World Example**: A major pharmaceutical company has a complex series of product sheets and patient brochures that must be updated quarterly with new compliance information. Before adopting a web-to-print solution, sales teams would be sent a batch of brochures to store in their offices, however when an update came, older versions were often still being used, creating a serious compliance risk and potential legal liability.

With a web-to-print system, this risk is significantly reduced. The system becomes the **only source for ordering these materials**. The sales teams simply log into a secure portal which only displays the most current, compliant versions of the documents. When a sales representative needs a new batch of brochures, they place a print on demand order directly through the portal, which routes the job to a pre-approved, quality-assured commercial printer. This ensures that all materials in circulation are the latest approved versions, thereby maintaining brand consistency and, more importantly, regulatory compliance.

A web-to-print system eliminates this risk by ensuring:

* Only approved versions can be ordered, with a process to ensure brand is maintained.
* Print quality is consistent across regions.

![Centralised controlled web-to-print](/uploads/brand-3-400.png "Centralised controlled web-to-print")

## Localization

When marketing collateral is translated or adapted by local teams **without centralized control, it can lead to serious errors in language and cultural references**. A web-to-print solution provides a robust framework to prevent these mistakes. It allows global marketing teams to create master templates with locked-down messaging, imagery, and branding guidelines. **Local offices are then given restricted access** to customize only specific fields, such as contact information or minor product details, from a menu of pre-approved translations. This ensures that while the **messaging is locally relevant, the core brand identity and messaging remain perfectly consistent**, avoiding embarrassing and costly gaffes like *Chevrolet's "Nova"* which translated to "it doesn't go" in Spanish, or *KFC's "Finger-Lickin' Good" slogan* which became "*Eat Your Fingers Off*" in Chinese.

## Extending Web-to-Print Beyond Print

While print may be the toughest challenge, modern web-to-print platforms go much further. They can also manage:

* **Digital marketing templates** (social media, [Vdocs](/products/vdocs "Vdocs - Digital Documents"), print on demand, RFQ, VDP).
* **Video content** elements (storage of centrally controlled files).
* **Internal communications** (HR documents, training packs, policies).
* **Event collateral** (signage, giveaways, branded merchandise).

This creates a **unified brand experience** across every customer and employee touchpoint.

## The Cost of Not Using a Web-to-Print System

Choosing not to invest in a web-to-print solution can result in:

* Brand dilution due to inconsistent materials.
* Wasted budget on reprints and corrections.
* Loss of customer trust caused by outdated branding.
* Inefficient processes as teams reinvent assets locally.

**The long-term costs of inconsistency outweighs the investment in a centralised solution.**

> Your brand is what other people say about you when you're not in the room.

— Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon

## A Proven Technology, Evolved for Today

It’s worth noting that web-to-print systems are not new. They have existed for decades to solve print logistics challenges. However, today’s platforms have **evolved to become strategic brand management tools**, powered by the cloud, integrated with DAM systems, and built to scale globally.

![strategic brand management tools](/uploads/brand-2-400.png "strategic brand management tools")

What began as a print solution is now a comprehensive brand protection platform.

## Conclusion: Secure Your Brand for Global Growth

###### **Inconsistent branding doesn’t just look unprofessional—it actively damages market position. A good web-to-print system offers the control, scalability, and efficiency needed to protect brand integrity across regions and platforms.**

By centralising assets, locking down messaging, connecting to global suppliers, and extending into digital, organisations can ensure their brand remains strong, recognisable, and trusted worldwide.

For any organisation serious about brand strength, a web-to-print solution isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

[Vpress](/about "Vpress") has been providing [market-leading web-to-print solutions](/products/coreprint "Vpress Coreprint Web to Print") for over two and a half decades, and **our experience is your advantage**. We don’t just offer software; we provide a **proven platform engineered for the demands of global brands**. Everything we do is feature-rich, well-supported, and built to ensure your brand remains globally consistent while allowing for the local agility you need to succeed. Our web to print systems deliver the central control that those in charge of brand integrity demand, **empowering you to scale your business with confidence**.

In today’s digital-first world, brand integrity is one of the most valuable assets an organisation can protect. Whether you are a global enterprise operating across multiple regions or a fast-growing company expanding into new markets, maintaining brand consistency is critical to success.
When brand assets become fragmented with outdated logos, inconsistent messaging, or unauthorised suppliers, the result is a weakened brand presence that confuses customers and dilutes impact. A web-to-print system solves this challenge by centralising brand control and ensuring that every piece of collateral, whether print or digital, adheres to global standards.
<blockquote>
A brand is the set of expectations, memories, stories, and relationships that, taken together, account for a consumer’s decision to choose one product or service over another.
</blockquote>
<img src="/uploads/sethgodinorange-600.png" alt="Seth Godin" title="Seth Godin">
— <a href="https://www.sethgodin.com/" title="Seth's Site">Seth Godin</a>, Marketing Guru
<h2>What is a Web-to-Print System?</h2>
A <a href="/resources/web-to-print-guide" title="What is Web to Print">web-to-print solution</a> is a cloud-based platform (often referred to as SaaS – Software as a Service) that allows organisations to centralise, customise, and distribute brand materials securely. While historically focused on printed collateral, modern web-to-print systems incorporate Digital Asset Management (DAM) platforms, locking down copy, protecting logos, and streamlining ordering processes with global suppliers.
This makes them a vital tool not just for print, but for any brand touchpoint.
<h2>The Challenge of Maintaining Brand Control Across Markets</h2>
Expanding into multiple markets creates complexity. Different teams, suppliers, and languages can quickly lead to:
<ul>
<li>Outdated artwork and logos appearing on collateral.</li>
<li>Incorrect product copy on packaging or sales materials.</li>
<li>Unapproved colour palettes or designs weakening visual consistency.</li>
<li>Local suppliers producing off-brand, low-quality materials.</li>
</ul>
Each inconsistency chips away at your reputation. Customers may not consciously notice every detail, but the overall impression is clear: a fragmented brand feels less trustworthy.
<blockquote>
Real-World Example: A global tech company, with their headquarters in California rebrands with a new logo and colour palette. However, their regional offices in London and Tokyo are still using the old materials for their sales brochures and business cards because they haven't been updated. A potential client in Europe receives an old brochure and sees the outdated logo on the company’s website. This simple misalignment creates a subconscious sense of disorganisation and unreliability. A centralised web-to-print portal would have made the new design instantly available to all offices, ensuring brand integrity worldwide.
</blockquote>
A centralised web-to-print system eliminates these risks by keeping every market aligned to the same standards.
<img src="/uploads/brand-1-400-1.png" alt="Centralised web to print" title="Centralised web to print">
<h2>The Power of Centralisation with SaaS and DAM</h2>
At the core of modern web-to-print systems is centralisation. By utilising a Digital Asset Manager (DAM), companies can store and update assets in one secure location.
Benefits include:
<ul>
<li>A single source of truth for logos, images, and design templates.</li>
<li>Instant updates—when a logo is refreshed, it changes globally.</li>
<li>Easy access for teams and suppliers worldwide.</li>
</ul>
This not only saves time but ensures no team is left guessing which version of a file to use.
<h2>Locking Down Approved Copy and Messaging</h2>
While visuals often get the spotlight, copy control is equally important. Product descriptions, compliance statements, and marketing messages all shape customer perception.
Web-to-print solutions allow businesses to:
<ul>
<li>Lock down approved product copy in templates.</li>
<li>Provide local teams with flexible fields (such as contact details or translations).</li>
<li>Prevent unapproved alterations that could cause compliance or brand issues.</li>
</ul>
The result is a balance of local agility with global control—empowering regional teams while protecting the brand’s integrity.
<h2>Streamlining Global Ordering and Supplier Control</h2>
One of the most powerful features of web-to-print is the ability to connect directly with authorised global suppliers. This ensures:
<ul>
<li>Orders are produced only by trusted, quality-assured vendors.</li>
<li>Local teams cannot bypass the process with unapproved commercial printers.</li>
<li>A full audit trail is available for brand and procurement teams.</li>
</ul>
By automating the print on demand and ordering process through the system, businesses reduce errors, avoid delays, and ensure every printed item meets brand standards. With a well-integrated supplier base, you may even find better pricing with deeper integration.
<h2>Why Print Remains the Hardest Element of Brand Control</h2>
Despite the growth of digital marketing, print remains one of the most difficult areas to control. Unlike digital assets, which can be updated instantly, printed materials often linger in circulation long after they are outdated.
Old brochures, manuals, or sales collateral with retired logos or incorrect information damage credibility. Customers assume the materials are current, but instead, they’re engaging with a weakened brand presence.
<blockquote>
Real-World Example: A major pharmaceutical company has a complex series of product sheets and patient brochures that must be updated quarterly with new compliance information. Before adopting a web-to-print solution, sales teams would be sent a batch of brochures to store in their offices, however when an update came, older versions were often still being used, creating a serious compliance risk and potential legal liability.
</blockquote>
With a web-to-print system, this risk is significantly reduced. The system becomes the only source for ordering these materials. The sales teams simply log into a secure portal which only displays the most current, compliant versions of the documents. When a sales representative needs a new batch of brochures, they place a print on demand order directly through the portal, which routes the job to a pre-approved, quality-assured commercial printer. This ensures that all materials in circulation are the latest approved versions, thereby maintaining brand consistency and, more importantly, regulatory compliance.
A web-to-print system eliminates this risk by ensuring:
<ul>
<li>Only approved versions can be ordered, with a process to ensure brand is maintained.</li>
<li>Print quality is consistent across regions.</li>
</ul>
<img src="/uploads/brand-3-400.png" alt="Centralised controlled web-to-print" title="Centralised controlled web-to-print">
<h2>Localization</h2>
When marketing collateral is translated or adapted by local teams without centralized control, it can lead to serious errors in language and cultural references. A web-to-print solution provides a robust framework to prevent these mistakes. It allows global marketing teams to create master templates with locked-down messaging, imagery, and branding guidelines. Local offices are then given restricted access to customize only specific fields, such as contact information or minor product details, from a menu of pre-approved translations. This ensures that while the messaging is locally relevant, the core brand identity and messaging remain perfectly consistent, avoiding embarrassing and costly gaffes like Chevrolet's &quot;Nova&quot; which translated to &quot;it doesn't go&quot; in Spanish, or KFC's &quot;Finger-Lickin' Good&quot; slogan which became &quot;Eat Your Fingers Off&quot; in Chinese.
<h2>Extending Web-to-Print Beyond Print</h2>
While print may be the toughest challenge, modern web-to-print platforms go much further. They can also manage:
<ul>
<li>Digital marketing templates (social media, <a href="/products/vdocs" title="Vdocs - Digital Documents">Vdocs</a>, print on demand, RFQ, VDP).</li>
<li>Video content elements (storage of centrally controlled files).</li>
<li>Internal communications (HR documents, training packs, policies).</li>
<li>Event collateral (signage, giveaways, branded merchandise).</li>
</ul>
This creates a unified brand experience across every customer and employee touchpoint.
<h2>The Cost of Not Using a Web-to-Print System</h2>
Choosing not to invest in a web-to-print solution can result in:
<ul>
<li>Brand dilution due to inconsistent materials.</li>
<li>Wasted budget on reprints and corrections.</li>
<li>Loss of customer trust caused by outdated branding.</li>
<li>Inefficient processes as teams reinvent assets locally.</li>
</ul>
The long-term costs of inconsistency outweighs the investment in a centralised solution.
<blockquote>
Your brand is what other people say about you when you're not in the room.
</blockquote>
— Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon
<h2>A Proven Technology, Evolved for Today</h2>
It’s worth noting that web-to-print systems are not new. They have existed for decades to solve print logistics challenges. However, today’s platforms have evolved to become strategic brand management tools, powered by the cloud, integrated with DAM systems, and built to scale globally.
<img src="/uploads/brand-2-400.png" alt="strategic brand management tools" title="strategic brand management tools">
What began as a print solution is now a comprehensive brand protection platform.
<h2>Conclusion: Secure Your Brand for Global Growth</h2>
<h6>Inconsistent branding doesn’t just look unprofessional—it actively damages market position. A good web-to-print system offers the control, scalability, and efficiency needed to protect brand integrity across regions and platforms.</h6>
By centralising assets, locking down messaging, connecting to global suppliers, and extending into digital, organisations can ensure their brand remains strong, recognisable, and trusted worldwide.
For any organisation serious about brand strength, a web-to-print solution isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.
<a href="/about" title="Vpress">Vpress</a> has been providing <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Vpress Coreprint Web to Print">market-leading web-to-print solutions</a> for over two and a half decades, and our experience is your advantage. We don’t just offer software; we provide a proven platform engineered for the demands of global brands. Everything we do is feature-rich, well-supported, and built to ensure your brand remains globally consistent while allowing for the local agility you need to succeed. Our web to print systems deliver the central control that those in charge of brand integrity demand, empowering you to scale your business with confidence.

Why Brand Consistency Matters More Than Ever

We're all accustomed to the convenience of online ordering through robust web platforms. Whether for work or home, 24/7 access to a global marketplace has become the norm. B2C pioneers like Amazon and Alibaba dominate, not just through their vast product selections and ease of purchase, but also through their technological prowess – seamless cross-supplier integrations, manufacturing workflow visibility, and robust logistics for reliable fulfillment. This consumer-level experience has reshaped expectations of its cousin in the B2B world that has been left behind.

Today's business customers demand more than just a basic HTML ordering page for their print needs; they want a **comprehensive web-to-print storefront solution** that is easy to manage and aligns with their unique workflows. They need a **personalised, customer-centric web experience** that's laser-focused on their unique business needs, available on any device, especially when it comes to ordering marketing collateral, placing custom print orders, or managing brand assets through a web-to-print portal.

Gone are the days when a users settle for a simple product list, a shopping cart, and a notes field for their detailed print needs. Businesses now require a comprehensive web to print solution that delivers the information they need, in the way they need it, personalised to their brand and **fully WCAG 2** (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) **compliant** for all levels of users on all devices. This transformation affects how they handle everything from office supplies to online print orders, ensuring their web-to-print store platform is ready to meet diverse business needs efficiently.

## **The Limitations of "Out-of-the-Box" and Bespoke Web to Print Solutions**

Addressing complex B2B web-to-print requirements has traditionally necessitated bespoke, in-house solutions. Craig Smith, Product Manager at Vpress, highlights the scale of this challenge: "Custom build projects for web to print platforms, from initial requirements gathering to delivering a beta version ready for customer testing, could take months, even years. You also need a dedicated team of experienced software development and infrastructure professionals. The costs for a supplier to undertake such a project are immense, not only for initial development but also for ongoing maintenance." This costly and time-consuming approach stands in stark contrast to today's customer expectations for better value and improved services from their web-to-print storefronts, particularly when complex requirements like print management are involved.

On the other hand, generic, "out-of-the-box" procurement platforms often fall short. They simply can't cater to the diverse and evolving needs of different business customers, especially when it comes to the intricacies of online print ordering. Every business operates uniquely, with its own workflows, data points, and priorities. A one-size-fits-all approach inevitably leads to inefficiencies and a frustrating user experience, especially when the customer has highly specific needs or extended procurement requirements.

## **The Evolution of Modern Web-to-Print Interface**

Today's web-to-print solutions must **go far beyond just transactional capabilities**. While they absolutely need sophisticated backend technologies to integrate with any system globally for order fulfillment, the key differentiator lies in providing a simple-to-use yet powerful set of customisation tools. These tools should not only empower the administrator to build a dynamic, B2C-feel front-end user experience – one that feels instantly familiar and aids rapid adoption, much like a seamless web2print portal – but also intuitively guide them, steering clear of common pitfalls and enabling optimal configurations that truly maximise the portal's potential for print ordering.

![Highly configurable Web to Print](/uploads/900-beyond-the-basket-3.png "Highly configurable Web to Print")

A truly effective web to print solution must be modular in its approach and collate rich data from numerous sources and present that information back to the user on any page in a simple, intuitive, and highly customisable interface, facilitating everything from standard procurement through to the need for template-based ordering of marketing collateral for web to print solutions. The ongoing administration of the interface must also be quick on any device; be that creating a panel for a new embedded training video or promotion to drive registration for a new seminar, or adding a new online print product. It should all be live in minutes and seamlessly adhere to the brand guidelines and theme of the site using any complimentary colours and **ensure accessibility standards continue to be met without any effort on the part of the admin user**.

Moreover, an effective web2print interface should also support scalable operations, enabling companies of all sizes to manage outputs ranging from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of print orders annually. **Scalability ensures long-term adaptability for businesses experiencing growth** or handling fluctuating demand across regional or global networks.

The new standard for web-to-print portals doesn't just manage transactions; it actively enhances your business by delivering:

* **New products and promotions** relevant to your business (including print on demand services)
* The **latest company news** and announcements regarding print services
* Easy access to print **supplier contacts**
* Adding **articles, links and help videos** (e.g., tutorials for web to print tools)
* **Real-time** print manufacturing status updates
* Direct courier **tracking links** for every print order line
* Information views from other systems (e.g. warehousing, manufacturing or CRM)

And much more, all positioned on a page where the user requires it for their print procurement!

## **Empowering Both Print Buyers and Suppliers**

The benefits extend to print suppliers as well. They need a user-friendly interface to efficiently manage the print store's administration, modify content, and strategically position information panels based on user preferences and importance. Crucially, this includes the ability for suppliers to showcase their full range of print products and services, **making buyers** **aware of offerings they might not yet know about** – including online print products and advanced print management capabilities. This not only drives additional sales and expands their market reach, but also leads to improved operational efficiencies through streamlined processes and, ultimately, a **significant increase in profitability for their web2print business**. This collaborative solution ensures the platform remains dynamic, mutually beneficial, and perfectly aligned with print customer needs.

![Web to Print tailored to the requirements of the customer](/uploads/900-beyond-the-basket.png "Web to Print tailored to the requirements of the customer")

The ultimate outcome? **Customers gain a web-to-print solution that is genuinely tailored to their requirements**, easy to navigate, in a familiar environment and displaying any additional information precisely where and when they need it. As their business grows and needs evolve, the site can be seamlessly enhanced with new information panels or features, once again all web compliant and fully on brand. For print suppliers, this means the ability to **build custom web to print solutions in minutes without large technical teams**, leading to improved customer retention rates and easier acquisition of new business.

## **It’s a Genuine Game Changing Offering for Web-to-Print**

As Neil Bridgland, an experienced Account Manager servicing many of the world's leading brands, rightly points out: "Most current solutions unfortunately overlook the importance of deep configurability, thereby missing **significant opportunities to truly empower and engage their user base**." He elaborates that a platform supporting not only B2B-focused print procurement but also deep site customisation "moves print procurement beyond simple transactions to a strategic function, transforming the buyer experience to meet, and even **exceed B2C standards**, with personalised and intuitive features," a critical evolution for platforms handling online print and marketing collateral. Furthermore, for the print suppliers he works with, such a system "**unlocks entirely new revenue streams** by allowing them to proactively showcase their full range of print products and services, not just what's explicitly requested. This leads to significantly improved operational efficiencies for all parties through streamlined, automated workflows for print production. Ultimately, by fostering true collaboration and providing rich data insights, it redefines the competitive landscape and elevates the entire print supply chain."

![Empowering web to print users](/uploads/900-beyond-the-basket-1.png "Empowering web to print users")

## **The Future of Print Procurement: Beyond Transactions**

Outdated print procurement solutions, often lacking the deep configurability vital for dynamic engagement, risk becoming a critical bottleneck in a rapidly evolving business world. A truly flexible, user-centric web-to-print platform, accessible across all devices for every user, transforms this. It doesn't just improve operations; by empowering users to discover relevant print offerings and enabling suppliers to strategically promote their full range of print products and services (including specialised areas like web2print), it directly **unlocks unprecedented opportunities for expanded market reach**, increased sales, and significantly improved profitability across the entire print supply chain.

Will your current platform **truly empower your evolution** and capture these essential avenues for growth, or will it limit your potential in the web to print market?

We're all accustomed to the convenience of online ordering through robust web platforms. Whether for work or home, 24/7 access to a global marketplace has become the norm. B2C pioneers like Amazon and Alibaba dominate, not just through their vast product selections and ease of purchase, but also through their technological prowess – seamless cross-supplier integrations, manufacturing workflow visibility, and robust logistics for reliable fulfillment. This consumer-level experience has reshaped expectations of its cousin in the B2B world that has been left behind.
Today's business customers demand more than just a basic HTML ordering page for their print needs; they want a comprehensive web-to-print storefront solution that is easy to manage and aligns with their unique workflows. They need a personalised, customer-centric web experience that's laser-focused on their unique business needs, available on any device, especially when it comes to ordering marketing collateral, placing custom print orders, or managing brand assets through a web-to-print portal.
Gone are the days when a users settle for a simple product list, a shopping cart, and a notes field for their detailed print needs. Businesses now require a comprehensive web to print solution that delivers the information they need, in the way they need it, personalised to their brand and fully WCAG 2 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) compliant for all levels of users on all devices. This transformation affects how they handle everything from office supplies to online print orders, ensuring their web-to-print store platform is ready to meet diverse business needs efficiently.
<h2>The Limitations of &quot;Out-of-the-Box&quot; and Bespoke Web to Print Solutions</h2>
Addressing complex B2B web-to-print requirements has traditionally necessitated bespoke, in-house solutions. Craig Smith, Product Manager at Vpress, highlights the scale of this challenge: &quot;Custom build projects for web to print platforms, from initial requirements gathering to delivering a beta version ready for customer testing, could take months, even years. You also need a dedicated team of experienced software development and infrastructure professionals. The costs for a supplier to undertake such a project are immense, not only for initial development but also for ongoing maintenance.&quot; This costly and time-consuming approach stands in stark contrast to today's customer expectations for better value and improved services from their web-to-print storefronts, particularly when complex requirements like print management are involved.
On the other hand, generic, &quot;out-of-the-box&quot; procurement platforms often fall short. They simply can't cater to the diverse and evolving needs of different business customers, especially when it comes to the intricacies of online print ordering. Every business operates uniquely, with its own workflows, data points, and priorities. A one-size-fits-all approach inevitably leads to inefficiencies and a frustrating user experience, especially when the customer has highly specific needs or extended procurement requirements.
<h2>The Evolution of Modern Web-to-Print Interface</h2>
Today's web-to-print solutions must go far beyond just transactional capabilities. While they absolutely need sophisticated backend technologies to integrate with any system globally for order fulfillment, the key differentiator lies in providing a simple-to-use yet powerful set of customisation tools. These tools should not only empower the administrator to build a dynamic, B2C-feel front-end user experience – one that feels instantly familiar and aids rapid adoption, much like a seamless web2print portal – but also intuitively guide them, steering clear of common pitfalls and enabling optimal configurations that truly maximise the portal's potential for print ordering.
<img src="/uploads/900-beyond-the-basket-3.png" alt="Highly configurable Web to Print" title="Highly configurable Web to Print">
A truly effective web to print solution must be modular in its approach and collate rich data from numerous sources and present that information back to the user on any page in a simple, intuitive, and highly customisable interface, facilitating everything from standard procurement through to the need for template-based ordering of marketing collateral for web to print solutions. The ongoing administration of the interface must also be quick on any device; be that creating a panel for a new embedded training video or promotion to drive registration for a new seminar, or adding a new online print product. It should all be live in minutes and seamlessly adhere to the brand guidelines and theme of the site using any complimentary colours and ensure accessibility standards continue to be met without any effort on the part of the admin user.
Moreover, an effective web2print interface should also support scalable operations, enabling companies of all sizes to manage outputs ranging from hundreds to hundreds of thousands of print orders annually. Scalability ensures long-term adaptability for businesses experiencing growth or handling fluctuating demand across regional or global networks.
The new standard for web-to-print portals doesn't just manage transactions; it actively enhances your business by delivering:
<ul>
<li>New products and promotions relevant to your business (including print on demand services)</li>
<li>The latest company news and announcements regarding print services</li>
<li>Easy access to print supplier contacts</li>
<li>Adding articles, links and help videos (e.g., tutorials for web to print tools)</li>
<li>Real-time print manufacturing status updates</li>
<li>Direct courier tracking links for every print order line</li>
<li>Information views from other systems (e.g. warehousing, manufacturing or CRM)</li>
</ul>
And much more, all positioned on a page where the user requires it for their print procurement!
<h2>Empowering Both Print Buyers and Suppliers</h2>
The benefits extend to print suppliers as well. They need a user-friendly interface to efficiently manage the print store's administration, modify content, and strategically position information panels based on user preferences and importance. Crucially, this includes the ability for suppliers to showcase their full range of print products and services, making buyers aware of offerings they might not yet know about – including online print products and advanced print management capabilities. This not only drives additional sales and expands their market reach, but also leads to improved operational efficiencies through streamlined processes and, ultimately, a significant increase in profitability for their web2print business. This collaborative solution ensures the platform remains dynamic, mutually beneficial, and perfectly aligned with print customer needs.
<img src="/uploads/900-beyond-the-basket.png" alt="Web to Print tailored to the requirements of the customer" title="Web to Print tailored to the requirements of the customer">
The ultimate outcome? Customers gain a web-to-print solution that is genuinely tailored to their requirements, easy to navigate, in a familiar environment and displaying any additional information precisely where and when they need it. As their business grows and needs evolve, the site can be seamlessly enhanced with new information panels or features, once again all web compliant and fully on brand. For print suppliers, this means the ability to build custom web to print solutions in minutes without large technical teams, leading to improved customer retention rates and easier acquisition of new business.
<h2>It’s a Genuine Game Changing Offering for Web-to-Print</h2>
As Neil Bridgland, an experienced Account Manager servicing many of the world's leading brands, rightly points out: &quot;Most current solutions unfortunately overlook the importance of deep configurability, thereby missing significant opportunities to truly empower and engage their user base.&quot; He elaborates that a platform supporting not only B2B-focused print procurement but also deep site customisation &quot;moves print procurement beyond simple transactions to a strategic function, transforming the buyer experience to meet, and even exceed B2C standards, with personalised and intuitive features,&quot; a critical evolution for platforms handling online print and marketing collateral. Furthermore, for the print suppliers he works with, such a system &quot;unlocks entirely new revenue streams by allowing them to proactively showcase their full range of print products and services, not just what's explicitly requested. This leads to significantly improved operational efficiencies for all parties through streamlined, automated workflows for print production. Ultimately, by fostering true collaboration and providing rich data insights, it redefines the competitive landscape and elevates the entire print supply chain.&quot;
<img src="/uploads/900-beyond-the-basket-1.png" alt="Empowering web to print users" title="Empowering web to print users">
<h2>The Future of Print Procurement: Beyond Transactions</h2>
Outdated print procurement solutions, often lacking the deep configurability vital for dynamic engagement, risk becoming a critical bottleneck in a rapidly evolving business world. A truly flexible, user-centric web-to-print platform, accessible across all devices for every user, transforms this. It doesn't just improve operations; by empowering users to discover relevant print offerings and enabling suppliers to strategically promote their full range of print products and services (including specialised areas like web2print), it directly unlocks unprecedented opportunities for expanded market reach, increased sales, and significantly improved profitability across the entire print supply chain.
Will your current platform truly empower your evolution and capture these essential avenues for growth, or will it limit your potential in the web to print market?

Beyond the Basket: Why Your Web to Print Platform Needs a Personalised Touch

In an era defined by **convenience, speed, and digital transformation**, the traditional model of the print industry - operating strictly from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. - is rapidly becoming obsolete. We now **navigate a 24/7, 365-day global marketplace** where customers expect to engage with service providers on their own demanding schedules, not the other way around. For commercial print providers who haven’t adopted flexible ordering processes and utilising print software solutions is not just an inconvenience for corporate buyers and marketing departments - it's a critical missed opportunity to secure larger contracts, scale operations, and robustly future-proof your business.

![Missing opportunities in print](/uploads/900-always-on5-1.png "Missing opportunities in print")

## The Shift in B2B Buyer Expectations

The pervasive influence of **digital-first marketplaces** and streamlined ecommerce procurement platforms has fundamentally reshaped how consumers and businesses buy print goods and services. We are no longer solely competing with local commercial printers; we are now **measured against global digital platforms** that offer instant quotes, rapid turnaround times, and intuitive online ordering features - all accessible through a [**user-friendly print storefront**](/blog/procurement-user-interface-ui-is-essential-for-selling-print-online-in-a-24-7-market "Procurement UI is essential") at any hour and from any location, providing the ultimate convenience for customers.

Platforms like Amazon Business have conditioned corporate procurement teams to expect near-instant gratification and streamlined purchasing workflows through robust ecommerce platforms. A marketing manager can place an urgent order for custom conference collateral at 3 a.m. on a Sunday and expect delivery by Monday. Design collaboration tools and online design software have empowered in-house creative teams to create print-ready assets like brochures, point of sale displays, and large-format graphics in just a few clicks, offering products with high levels of customisation - all managed digitally and often outside conventional working hours.

These ecommerce platforms have unequivocally redefined the B2B customer journey. Whether you're a niche B2B print provider or a large commercial press, your corporate clients expect an online store experience that meets their elevated expectations - or they are shifting their substantial budgets to competitors who offer comprehensive ecommerce solutions.

## Why 24/7 Accessibility Is No Longer Optional for B2B Print

The core issue isn't simply that business professionals order or procure outside of "business hours" - it's that *global business operations now span multiple time zones* and operate continuously online. Corporate marketing teams often finalise global campaigns over weekends using print ecommerce platforms. Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) manage critical branding and collateral updates late at night after daily operations conclude. Large event planners and exhibition organisers finalise last-minute signage and print product requirements from different time zones. These are real businesses with real, urgent print needs that *frequently arise outside the conventional 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. window*.

![&quot;Always on&quot; print providers](/uploads/900-always-on.png "&quot;Always on&quot; print providers")

If your commercial print business isn’t always accessible - through a robust online storefront or ecommerce platform that provides instant pricing, clear product specifications, and a seamless checkout process - **you are effectively missing out on high-value corporate orders**. Even worse, you are *directing potential long-term B2B partners straight into the hands of agile competitors* who offer superior online ordering services and are fully equipped to serve clients around the clock.

The contemporary expectation for B2B print services isn't just about delivering high-quality printing products. *It's about offering a seamless, digital-first customer experience through an advanced ecommerce platform that mirrors the convenience of Amazon and the customisation features of Canva or Etsy*. Along with the efficiency of enterprise e-procurement systems, your solution must support the customisation capabilities demanded by modern brand guidelines. You must be available on your online store when your corporate clients are ready to initiate an order or finalise specifications - and that necessitates 24/7 printing services accessibility.

## Instant Pricing: No More Request a Quote and Wait

The era of corporate buyers patiently awaiting 24 to 48 hours for a complex print quote is rapidly diminishing. In today's competitive B2B ecommerce landscape, time is a critical operational currency. Platforms like Amazon have raised the expectations bar, and online B2B ecommerce platforms have set new benchmarks by offering real-time print pricing based on dynamic specifications - size, volume, stock, finishing, delivery timelines, and more. It’s fast, transparent, and empowers procurement teams with immediate budget clarity through advanced ecommerce software.

To effectively compete, commercial print providers must implement ecommerce systems that facilitate **dynamic pricing online**. This isn't merely about convenience; it's about *building trust and demonstrating operational transparency* through your ecommerce platform. When B2B customers see that your print pricing is upfront, competitive, and accessible at any time, you **eliminate friction in their procurement process** and significantly increase the likelihood of securing high-volume orders and sales.

Modern web-to-print solutions and robust B2B ecommerce integrations make this more achievable and affordable than ever, yielding substantial operational benefits. By using advanced print software, automating your ordering and quoting process doesn’t mean sacrificing the ability to handle complex custom orders; it simply means your customers receive answers faster, and your sales and production teams can focus on strategic accounts and intricate production challenges instead of repetitive administrative tasks.

## Speed and Turnaround: The New Standard for Enterprise Print

Speed has emerged as one of the most significant competitive differentiators in the commercial print industry. Businesses require their critical marketing materials, operational documents, and event collateral delivered yesterday. Large enterprises need last-minute signage for unexpected opportunities. Agencies require urgent brand assets in hand before a crucial client presentation.

Whether it’s express next-day delivery, same-day local pickup for critical documents, or expedited international shipping, your commercial print business must offer options that cater to the demanding timelines of modern enterprises. This doesn’t mandate becoming a 24-hour physical production facility - though advanced automation can facilitate this - but it does mean you need to offer premium express services that justify a higher price point, manage client expectations transparently, and leverage technology to streamline every aspect of your workflows for fast turnaround printing.

Leading providers are implementing automated order processing, integrated digital print queues, and real-time inventory synchronisation through their ecommerce platforms to achieve faster output without compromising staff well-being. Rapid turnaround time is no longer a premium feature; it's a fundamental expectation for B2B print partnerships.

## Quality and Affordability: The B2B Balancing Act

The good news for commercial printers? **B2B clients are not solely seeking the absolute cheapest option; they are seeking demonstrable value**. This translates to consistent, high-fidelity quality, competitive but fair pricing, and utterly dependable service. The challenge lies in maintaining the rigorous production standards demanded by corporate brands while remaining competitive with the streamlined pricing models offered by large online print platforms.

Strategic automation, investment in efficient, high-volume printing equipment, and thoughtful product portfolio selection can significantly reduce overhead and improve margins. Focus on offering high-quality, high-demand print items crucial for businesses - from premium business cards and corporate brochures to bespoke packaging, serialised labels, and grand format exhibition graphics - and ensure your value proposition is unequivocally clear.

Whether it's the use of premium materials, eco-friendly production processes, local account management support, or specialised finishing capabilities, identify what distinguishes your commercial print business and communicate it compellingly on your online print storefront. These differentiators are your crucial competitive advantages against larger, more generalised online competitors.

## Web-to-Print: Your Digital Front Door for B2B Clients

If your commercial print business is still primarily relying on phone calls, unscheduled walk-ins, and fragmented email orders, you are effectively invisible to a substantial segment of the modern B2B market. A sophisticated, mobile-responsive *web-to-print platform is the essential digital front door to your business*, functioning as your primary sales and service channel.

You must be able to provide your corporate clients with their own print ecommerce platform, which is not merely a "nice to have" - it empowers your B2B customers to:

* Browse their **products and service catalogs** with ease.
* Access **instant print pricing** for their specific configurations.
* Seamlessly **customise print online** options and upload high-resolution artwork.
* Place and track complex corporate orders 24/7.
* Request expert support or detailed information without delay.

Consider your web-to-print storefront as your most diligent sales and account management representative - one that operates every hour of every day. A modern print customer experience that is intuitive, efficient, and frictionless for corporate buyers will dramatically support your production workflow, delivering significant operational savings.

## Serving Diverse Sectors, Around the Clock

The inherent advantage of an always-on online print shop is its ability to open doors to new industries and expand your customer segments. You are no longer constrained by geographic location, time zone, or a narrow niche. Whether it’s a national retail chain ordering point-of-sale displays, a burgeoning tech startup printing bespoke documentation, or a large non-profit designing event materials, your *well-optimised web-to-print system becomes a magnet for diverse business opportunities*. It should contain logically categorised products, clear service descriptions, and high-quality imagery, which positions you as a trusted strategic partner - not merely a printer, but a comprehensive solution provider for corporate communication and branding needs.

![Serving customers around the clock](/uploads/900-always-on3.png "Serving customers around the clock")

## Customer Growth and Operational Efficiency!

A well-implemented web-to-print solution can effectively **lock down your key B2B clients**, manage their complex expectations, and provide them with the 24/7 printing services they demand. Concurrently, it profoundly supports your internal workflow efficiencies. This dual benefit directly impacts your business's bottom line by enhancing operational efficiency and fostering deep client engagement on your branded digital platform.

## Final Thoughts: Evolve or Be Replaced

The *commercial print industry is not declining* - **it is undergoing a profound evolution**. However, evolution unequivocally demands proactive change. In a globalised B2B world that operates 24/7, **clinging to outdated business models is the swiftest route to irrelevance**.

Modern corporate print customers expect instant print pricing, fast turnaround printing, consistent quality, and seamless online print storefront ordering experiences. *Digital leaders and B2B ecommerce platforms have conditioned these clients to demand convenience, personalisation at scale, and complete transparency* - and if your commercial print business cannot deliver, a more agile competitor certainly will.

That’s why *now is the critical time to embrace web-to-print solutions* and print-on-demand technology. These powerful tools empower you to:

* Accept **complex corporate orders anytime, from anywhere**, utilising a robust web-to-print platform.
* **Reduce overhead and waste** with efficient print-on-demand technology fulfillment.
* Streamline **sophisticated order management** and complex production workflows.
* Offer **instant, dynamic online quotes** for diverse B2B requirements.
* Strategically expand your product range and attract a wider corporate customer base.

Whether you're a large commercial printer, a print management firm, or an office supplies provider expanding into print, web-to-print software and print-on-demand integration are the indispensable keys to remaining competitive and profitable in today’s demanding, always-on B2B marketplace.

## Future-Proof Your Print Business

*Don’t let outdated systems and limited operational hours restrict the growth potential of your commercial print business*. Take the decisive next step and invest in a web-to-print platform that works around the clock - just like your B2B customers do.

* Create a **powerful, branded online print storefront** that attracts new corporate clients.
* **Automate** intricate pricing, complex order intake, and multi-stage artwork approvals using advanced print software.
* Tap into the burgeoning demand for personalised, on-demand print products for businesses.
* **Compete effectively with industry leaders** by delivering unparalleled convenience and consistent quality through your ecommerce platform.

[Start your transformation today](/ "Transform your business"). Explore how **we partner with our customers** to provide the [ideal web-to-print solution](/products/coreprint "Coreprint web-to-print solution") - tailored to your and your customers' needs. [Elevate your business](/industries "Elevate your business"), boost efficiency, and unlock significant new revenue streams, 24/7. **This is the future of the printing industry**.

In an era defined by convenience, speed, and digital transformation, the traditional model of the print industry - operating strictly from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. - is rapidly becoming obsolete. We now navigate a 24/7, 365-day global marketplace where customers expect to engage with service providers on their own demanding schedules, not the other way around. For commercial print providers who haven’t adopted flexible ordering processes and utilising print software solutions is not just an inconvenience for corporate buyers and marketing departments - it's a critical missed opportunity to secure larger contracts, scale operations, and robustly future-proof your business.
<img src="/uploads/900-always-on5-1.png" alt="Missing opportunities in print" title="Missing opportunities in print">
<h2>The Shift in B2B Buyer Expectations</h2>
The pervasive influence of digital-first marketplaces and streamlined ecommerce procurement platforms has fundamentally reshaped how consumers and businesses buy print goods and services. We are no longer solely competing with local commercial printers; we are now measured against global digital platforms that offer instant quotes, rapid turnaround times, and intuitive online ordering features - all accessible through a <a href="/blog/procurement-user-interface-ui-is-essential-for-selling-print-online-in-a-24-7-market" title="Procurement UI is essential">user-friendly print storefront</a> at any hour and from any location, providing the ultimate convenience for customers.
Platforms like Amazon Business have conditioned corporate procurement teams to expect near-instant gratification and streamlined purchasing workflows through robust ecommerce platforms. A marketing manager can place an urgent order for custom conference collateral at 3 a.m. on a Sunday and expect delivery by Monday. Design collaboration tools and online design software have empowered in-house creative teams to create print-ready assets like brochures, point of sale displays, and large-format graphics in just a few clicks, offering products with high levels of customisation - all managed digitally and often outside conventional working hours.
These ecommerce platforms have unequivocally redefined the B2B customer journey. Whether you're a niche B2B print provider or a large commercial press, your corporate clients expect an online store experience that meets their elevated expectations - or they are shifting their substantial budgets to competitors who offer comprehensive ecommerce solutions.
<h2>Why 24/7 Accessibility Is No Longer Optional for B2B Print</h2>
The core issue isn't simply that business professionals order or procure outside of &quot;business hours&quot; - it's that global business operations now span multiple time zones and operate continuously online. Corporate marketing teams often finalise global campaigns over weekends using print ecommerce platforms. Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) manage critical branding and collateral updates late at night after daily operations conclude. Large event planners and exhibition organisers finalise last-minute signage and print product requirements from different time zones. These are real businesses with real, urgent print needs that frequently arise outside the conventional 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. window.
<img src="/uploads/900-always-on.png" alt="Always on print providers" title="&quot;Always on&quot; print providers">
If your commercial print business isn’t always accessible - through a robust online storefront or ecommerce platform that provides instant pricing, clear product specifications, and a seamless checkout process - you are effectively missing out on high-value corporate orders. Even worse, you are directing potential long-term B2B partners straight into the hands of agile competitors who offer superior online ordering services and are fully equipped to serve clients around the clock.
The contemporary expectation for B2B print services isn't just about delivering high-quality printing products. It's about offering a seamless, digital-first customer experience through an advanced ecommerce platform that mirrors the convenience of Amazon and the customisation features of Canva or Etsy. Along with the efficiency of enterprise e-procurement systems, your solution must support the customisation capabilities demanded by modern brand guidelines. You must be available on your online store when your corporate clients are ready to initiate an order or finalise specifications - and that necessitates 24/7 printing services accessibility.
<h2>Instant Pricing: No More Request a Quote and Wait</h2>
The era of corporate buyers patiently awaiting 24 to 48 hours for a complex print quote is rapidly diminishing. In today's competitive B2B ecommerce landscape, time is a critical operational currency. Platforms like Amazon have raised the expectations bar, and online B2B ecommerce platforms have set new benchmarks by offering real-time print pricing based on dynamic specifications - size, volume, stock, finishing, delivery timelines, and more. It’s fast, transparent, and empowers procurement teams with immediate budget clarity through advanced ecommerce software.
To effectively compete, commercial print providers must implement ecommerce systems that facilitate dynamic pricing online. This isn't merely about convenience; it's about building trust and demonstrating operational transparency through your ecommerce platform. When B2B customers see that your print pricing is upfront, competitive, and accessible at any time, you eliminate friction in their procurement process and significantly increase the likelihood of securing high-volume orders and sales.
Modern web-to-print solutions and robust B2B ecommerce integrations make this more achievable and affordable than ever, yielding substantial operational benefits. By using advanced print software, automating your ordering and quoting process doesn’t mean sacrificing the ability to handle complex custom orders; it simply means your customers receive answers faster, and your sales and production teams can focus on strategic accounts and intricate production challenges instead of repetitive administrative tasks.
<h2>Speed and Turnaround: The New Standard for Enterprise Print</h2>
Speed has emerged as one of the most significant competitive differentiators in the commercial print industry. Businesses require their critical marketing materials, operational documents, and event collateral delivered yesterday. Large enterprises need last-minute signage for unexpected opportunities. Agencies require urgent brand assets in hand before a crucial client presentation.
Whether it’s express next-day delivery, same-day local pickup for critical documents, or expedited international shipping, your commercial print business must offer options that cater to the demanding timelines of modern enterprises. This doesn’t mandate becoming a 24-hour physical production facility - though advanced automation can facilitate this - but it does mean you need to offer premium express services that justify a higher price point, manage client expectations transparently, and leverage technology to streamline every aspect of your workflows for fast turnaround printing.
Leading providers are implementing automated order processing, integrated digital print queues, and real-time inventory synchronisation through their ecommerce platforms to achieve faster output without compromising staff well-being. Rapid turnaround time is no longer a premium feature; it's a fundamental expectation for B2B print partnerships.
<h2>Quality and Affordability: The B2B Balancing Act</h2>
The good news for commercial printers? B2B clients are not solely seeking the absolute cheapest option; they are seeking demonstrable value. This translates to consistent, high-fidelity quality, competitive but fair pricing, and utterly dependable service. The challenge lies in maintaining the rigorous production standards demanded by corporate brands while remaining competitive with the streamlined pricing models offered by large online print platforms.
Strategic automation, investment in efficient, high-volume printing equipment, and thoughtful product portfolio selection can significantly reduce overhead and improve margins. Focus on offering high-quality, high-demand print items crucial for businesses - from premium business cards and corporate brochures to bespoke packaging, serialised labels, and grand format exhibition graphics - and ensure your value proposition is unequivocally clear.
Whether it's the use of premium materials, eco-friendly production processes, local account management support, or specialised finishing capabilities, identify what distinguishes your commercial print business and communicate it compellingly on your online print storefront. These differentiators are your crucial competitive advantages against larger, more generalised online competitors.
<h2>Web-to-Print: Your Digital Front Door for B2B Clients</h2>
If your commercial print business is still primarily relying on phone calls, unscheduled walk-ins, and fragmented email orders, you are effectively invisible to a substantial segment of the modern B2B market. A sophisticated, mobile-responsive web-to-print platform is the essential digital front door to your business, functioning as your primary sales and service channel.
You must be able to provide your corporate clients with their own print ecommerce platform, which is not merely a &quot;nice to have&quot; - it empowers your B2B customers to:
<ul>
<li>Browse their products and service catalogs with ease.</li>
<li>Access instant print pricing for their specific configurations.</li>
<li>Seamlessly customise print online options and upload high-resolution artwork.</li>
<li>Place and track complex corporate orders 24/7.</li>
<li>Request expert support or detailed information without delay.</li>
</ul>
Consider your web-to-print storefront as your most diligent sales and account management representative - one that operates every hour of every day. A modern print customer experience that is intuitive, efficient, and frictionless for corporate buyers will dramatically support your production workflow, delivering significant operational savings.
<h2>Serving Diverse Sectors, Around the Clock</h2>
The inherent advantage of an always-on online print shop is its ability to open doors to new industries and expand your customer segments. You are no longer constrained by geographic location, time zone, or a narrow niche. Whether it’s a national retail chain ordering point-of-sale displays, a burgeoning tech startup printing bespoke documentation, or a large non-profit designing event materials, your well-optimised web-to-print system becomes a magnet for diverse business opportunities. It should contain logically categorised products, clear service descriptions, and high-quality imagery, which positions you as a trusted strategic partner - not merely a printer, but a comprehensive solution provider for corporate communication and branding needs.
<img src="/uploads/900-always-on3.png" alt="Serving customers around the clock" title="Serving customers around the clock">
<h2>Customer Growth and Operational Efficiency!</h2>
A well-implemented web-to-print solution can effectively lock down your key B2B clients, manage their complex expectations, and provide them with the 24/7 printing services they demand. Concurrently, it profoundly supports your internal workflow efficiencies. This dual benefit directly impacts your business's bottom line by enhancing operational efficiency and fostering deep client engagement on your branded digital platform.
<h2>Final Thoughts: Evolve or Be Replaced</h2>
The commercial print industry is not declining - it is undergoing a profound evolution. However, evolution unequivocally demands proactive change. In a globalised B2B world that operates 24/7, clinging to outdated business models is the swiftest route to irrelevance.
Modern corporate print customers expect instant print pricing, fast turnaround printing, consistent quality, and seamless online print storefront ordering experiences. Digital leaders and B2B ecommerce platforms have conditioned these clients to demand convenience, personalisation at scale, and complete transparency - and if your commercial print business cannot deliver, a more agile competitor certainly will.
That’s why now is the critical time to embrace web-to-print solutions and print-on-demand technology. These powerful tools empower you to:
<ul>
<li>Accept complex corporate orders anytime, from anywhere, utilising a robust web-to-print platform.</li>
<li>Reduce overhead and waste with efficient print-on-demand technology fulfillment.</li>
<li>Streamline sophisticated order management and complex production workflows.</li>
<li>Offer instant, dynamic online quotes for diverse B2B requirements.</li>
<li>Strategically expand your product range and attract a wider corporate customer base.</li>
</ul>
Whether you're a large commercial printer, a print management firm, or an office supplies provider expanding into print, web-to-print software and print-on-demand integration are the indispensable keys to remaining competitive and profitable in today’s demanding, always-on B2B marketplace.
<h2>Future-Proof Your Print Business</h2>
Don’t let outdated systems and limited operational hours restrict the growth potential of your commercial print business. Take the decisive next step and invest in a web-to-print platform that works around the clock - just like your B2B customers do.
<ul>
<li>Create a powerful, branded online print storefront that attracts new corporate clients.</li>
<li>Automate intricate pricing, complex order intake, and multi-stage artwork approvals using advanced print software.</li>
<li>Tap into the burgeoning demand for personalised, on-demand print products for businesses.</li>
<li>Compete effectively with industry leaders by delivering unparalleled convenience and consistent quality through your ecommerce platform.</li>
</ul>
<a href="/" title="Transform your business">Start your transformation today</a>. Explore how we partner with our customers to provide the <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Coreprint web-to-print solution">ideal web-to-print solution</a> - tailored to your and your customers' needs. <a href="/industries" title="Elevate your business">Elevate your business</a>, boost efficiency, and unlock significant new revenue streams, 24/7. This is the future of the printing industry.

Why Print Providers Must Evolve Beyond 9-to-5 in the Always-On Economy

In today's **fast-paced** and 24/7 market, having a robust online presence is no longer a luxury—it’s a *necessity*, especially for print service providers (PSPs). A web-to-print storefront is more than just an online ordering system; it’s a comprehensive solution that seamlessly integrates your print business into the digital landscape.

This platform empowers customers to personalise, configure, order, and manage their print products effortlessly, saving time and boosting customer satisfaction. With good web-to-print software, you need to be able to create an *intuitive* and user-friendly storefront that streamlines the ordering process. This not only helps grow your business but also positions you as a **forward-thinking** and customer-centric PSP.

However, success in web to print storefronts goes beyond functionality—it hinges on the user experience. In an era of increasingly sophisticated digital interactions, the importance of a well-designed **User Interface (UI)** cannot be overstated.

![Web-to-Print User-Interface designer](/uploads/w2p-ui-1-900px.png "Web-to-Print User-Interface designer")

A good UI makes the difference between a valued customer and a frustrated one. By prioritising UI, PSPs can transform their online print commerce and elevate their business to new heights.

## Seamless Sales: Why Print Needs a Strong UI

In today’s **digital-first economy**, the way people purchase goods and services has evolved dramatically. Just look at other markets transformed by businesses like Amazon. Consumers now *expect seamless, around-the-clock access* to products — and the print industry is no exception.

Whether it’s business cards, point of sale (PoS), promotional materials, or complex custom jobs, buyers are increasingly turning to online platforms, such as **web-to-print** or **print on demand**, to fulfil their print needs on their own schedule.

For companies selling print and print-related materials, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in translating what is often a *complex, customised, and traditionally consultative product* into an intuitive online experience. This involves more than just listing products; it requires creating a platform capable of handling the nuances of print customisation — from design to ordering — in a user-friendly manner.

The opportunity, however, is significant. By empowering customers with a robust **procurement user interface (UI)**, print sellers can meet their customers where they are — online, and at their convenience.

A well-designed UI can simplify the ordering process, provide *real-time previews*, and offer a seamless experience that mirrors the ease of other online shopping platforms. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also drives engagement, educates buyers, and ultimately boosts sales.

In this blog, we’ll explore why a dedicated **web to print UI** is essential for the modern print seller. We will delve into how effective functionality can streamline the ordering process, reduce errors, and make the entire experience more enjoyable for the customer.

By understanding the importance of a *user-centric UI*, print businesses can leverage this technology to stay competitive and thrive in the digital age.

### The Changing Landscape of Print Procurement

Print procurement has **undergone a significant transformation** in recent years, shifting away from the traditional model of face-to-face interactions, phone calls, and wet or PDF proofs. In the past, salespeople played a central role in consulting with clients to define specifications, provide quotes, and guide them through timelines and production processes. However, this model no longer aligns with the expectations of today’s fast-paced, digitally enabled buyers.

Modern buyers demand a different kind of experience. They want **instant access** to product options and pricing, enabling them to make informed decisions quickly.

*Self-service capabilities* have become essential, reducing reliance on salespeople and empowering buyers to manage their own purchasing process. Transparency is also vital, with buyers seeking clear information on customisation options, shipping details, and turnaround times.

Additionally, they expect control over the purchasing process, available **24/7**, to fit their busy schedules and preferences.

A good Web-to-Print UI that allows users to explore, configure, and purchase print products at any time is no longer a luxury — it’s a **necessity**. This shift towards digital procurement is driven by broader trends in *digital transformation*, where businesses are adopting technologies like AI, automation, and cloud services to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.

In this evolving landscape, print service providers must adapt to meet these changing demands. By offering a **robust and intuitive online print storefront**, businesses can deliver the seamless, self-service experience modern buyers expect.

This not only improves customer satisfaction but also positions the print business for success in a highly competitive and rapidly changing market.

### What Is a Procurement User Interface?

A procurement user interface is a digital platform or portal that enables buyers to *browse, customise, quote, and purchase goods* — in this case, print and related products — entirely online. Think of it as a self-service dashboard that merges *eCommerce functionality* with business-specific purchasing tools.

For the print industry, **Web-to-Print** or **Print OnDemand** solutions exemplify this concept, offering a seamless online print ordering experience.

![Procurement User Interface](/uploads/w2p-ui-2-900px.png "Procurement User Interface")

This interface is more than just a transactional tool; it serves as a way to engage with your customers, fulfilling their expectations while helping you achieve your sales and efficiency goals. A strong procurement UI within a Web to Print solution should include several essential features.

1. A product catalogue with dynamic customisation options is fundamental. This allows customers to personalise their print products according to their specific needs, such as selecting different materials, colours, or designs. This level of customisation enhances the user experience and ensures customers can find exactly what they are looking for.
2. A robust *pricing engine* is also essential, as it must reflect the complexities of print production. This engine should calculate prices in real-time based on factors like the type of print, quantity, and any custom features selected by the customer. This **transparency** helps build trust and ensures customers are fully aware of all costs upfront.
3. Order history and tracking are critical components of a procurement UI. These features empower customers to view their past orders, track the status of current orders, and manage their accounts efficiently. This level of *visibility and control* is key to maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty.
4. Support for bulk ordering and **account-specific pricing** is another vital feature. This functionality caters to business customers who often place large orders and require special pricing arrangements.

By integrating these features, a procurement UI can effectively address the needs of both individual and corporate clients.

Finally, educational content should be readily available to guide less experienced buyers through the process. This could include tutorials, FAQs, and other resources that help customers understand the various options and processes involved in ordering print products online. By offering this support, you ensure that all customers, regardless of their expertise level, can navigate the system with ease.

### Why It Matters for Print Sellers

Investing in a **Web-to-Print solution** is important for print sellers, and here are several key reasons why it is so significant.

#### 24/7 Accessibility Meets Modern Expectations

Customers today expect **round-the-clock access** to services. A Web to Print solution ensures your business is available to meet these *modern expectations*, whether it's for time-sensitive orders or last-minute jobs. This accessibility aligns with the autonomy buyers want, allowing them to research, customise, and complete purchases at their convenience — without waiting for callbacks or emails. Whether you cater to B2B or B2C customers, providing a responsive and user-friendly experience positions your business as a competitive choice.

#### Complexity Made Simple

Print products can be inherently complex, with numerous variables like paper types, weights, finishes, folds, and bindings. A well-designed Web-to-Print solution simplifies this complexity with **interactive tools**, guided configurations, and intuitive UI. This reduces friction for customers, especially those who aren’t print-savvy, and builds confidence in their choices. By streamlining the buying process with visuals, tooltips, and user-friendly portals, you create a seamless experience that resonates with both first-time and repeat buyers.

#### Educating the Buyer Builds Trust

Trust is built through education. A **smart Web-to-Print interface** integrates educational tools like FAQs, guides, and calculators to help customers understand their options, costs, and the terminology behind the print process. This fosters informed decisions, reduces uncertainty, and enhances customer satisfaction. By addressing common questions and offering visual explanations, you not only upsell products but also cultivate long-term relationships with buyers who feel confident and valued.

#### Improved Efficiency for Both Buyer and Seller

Efficiency is key for both buyers and sellers. Web to Print solutions automate sales processes, streamline workflows, and reduce manual errors, saving significant time for your team. This allows designers and sales teams to focus on high-value activities rather than basic order processing. Automated systems also enhance order submission, improve customer service, and reduce operational delays, making your business more agile and cost-effective in a competitive marketplace.

### The Cost of Doing Nothing

Still relying on quote requests and ordering via email or phone? You're likely missing out on a **huge segment** of the market. In today's digital age, not adopting a modern Web-to-Print solution can have significant consequences for your business.

Without a Web-to-Print solution, you are unavailable when your customer is ready to buy. The *24/7 nature* of online shopping means that customers expect to research, customise, and purchase products at any time. If your business is not accessible during these hours, you risk losing potential customers to competitors who offer round-the-clock service.

This traditional approach also creates friction or barriers that can send buyers to your competitors. The manual process of sending PDFs and awaiting quote requests can be cumbersome and time-consuming, leading to frustration and a higher likelihood of customers seeking alternatives that offer a smoother, more efficient experience.

Failing to educate your customers is another significant drawback. Without an interactive and informative Web-to-Print interface, customers may not fully understand the options available to them or the reasons behind certain costs. This lack of education can lower conversion rates, as customers may feel uncertain or overwhelmed by the complexity of the print ordering process.

Moreover, not having an online Web-to-Print solution reduces operational efficiency and increases your costs compared to competitors. Manual processes are more prone to errors, require more labour, and slow down the entire workflow. In contrast, automated Web-to-Print solutions streamline the ordering process, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance overall efficiency, allowing your business to operate more cost-effectively.

In short, not having an online Web-to-Print solution isn't just outdated — it's **risky**. It can lead to lost sales, reduced customer satisfaction, and higher operational costs, ultimately putting your business at a *competitive disadvantage* in the market.

### Real-World Success Stories

Many **forward-thinking print businesses** have already embraced advanced Web-to-Print solutions, and their [success stories are truly compelling](/casestudies/elevating-efficiency-and-customer-satisfaction-with-vpress-at-summit-creative "Success Story").

Business-to-consumer (B2C) Companies at the forefront of this shift have implemented **user-friendly interfaces (UIs)** that empower customers to easily configure, preview, and order printed products with minimal effort. This seamless experience is not only revolutionising B2C transactions but is also making significant waves in the business-to-business (B2B) space.

![User Friendly web-to-print interfaces](/uploads/w2p-ui-3-900px.png "User Friendly web-to-print interfaces")

In the B2B sector, companies like [**Vpress**](/about "About Vpress") are setting new benchmarks with their **Coreprint solution**.

Vpress’ Coreprint Web-to-Print storefront provides deep control over the system's user experience. Admins can configure the look and feel of their portal, allowing **granular control** over layout and navigation for a personalised and efficient interaction. Simultaneously, administrators can **tailor the UI/UX of the entire platform**, customising workflows and features to perfectly align with the unique procurement needs of each of their customers. This ensures every client enjoys a highly relevant and streamlined journey within the print ordering solution, fostering **long-term relationships** and boosting customer satisfaction.

These tools don’t just meet expectations—they *exceed them* by establishing higher standards for what customers can expect from their print service providers.

Vpress continues to innovate, introducing **exciting new features** to their Coreprint Web-to-Print UI. These advancements are designed to not only enhance the user experience but also support *production workflow efficiencies* within the print supplier's operations. By integrating such advanced functionalities, Vpress is helping print businesses **optimise their operations** and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

If you're interested in learning more about these innovations and how they can benefit your business, *connecting with Vpress* can provide valuable insights into leveraging these tools effectively.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, incorporating a **robust Web-to-Print solution** with a *user-friendly interface* is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for print service providers. This technology ensures **24/7 accessibility**, simplifies complex print ordering, and educates buyers, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and trust.

The [**Vpress Coreprint system**](/products/coreprint "Vpress Coreprint") isn't just about streamlining operations and cutting expenses; it's about building bridges to deeper, more lasting customer loyalty. Our customers are consistently reporting **outstanding results**, transforming their businesses by giving their clients the ultimate in barrier-free print ordering.

To stay competitive and thrive in the digital age, it is essential to adopt a Web-to-Print platform that meets **modern buyer expectations**. Take the first step today and transform your print business for the better.

In today's fast-paced and 24/7 market, having a robust online presence is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially for print service providers (PSPs). A web-to-print storefront is more than just an online ordering system; it’s a comprehensive solution that seamlessly integrates your print business into the digital landscape.
This platform empowers customers to personalise, configure, order, and manage their print products effortlessly, saving time and boosting customer satisfaction. With good web-to-print software, you need to be able to create an intuitive and user-friendly storefront that streamlines the ordering process. This not only helps grow your business but also positions you as a forward-thinking and customer-centric PSP.
However, success in web to print storefronts goes beyond functionality—it hinges on the user experience. In an era of increasingly sophisticated digital interactions, the importance of a well-designed User Interface (UI) cannot be overstated.
<img src="/uploads/w2p-ui-1-900px.png" alt="Web-to-Print User-Interface designer" title="Web-to-Print User-Interface designer">
A good UI makes the difference between a valued customer and a frustrated one. By prioritising UI, PSPs can transform their online print commerce and elevate their business to new heights.
<h2>Seamless Sales: Why Print Needs a Strong UI</h2>
In today’s digital-first economy, the way people purchase goods and services has evolved dramatically. Just look at other markets transformed by businesses like Amazon. Consumers now expect seamless, around-the-clock access to products — and the print industry is no exception.
Whether it’s business cards, point of sale (PoS), promotional materials, or complex custom jobs, buyers are increasingly turning to online platforms, such as web-to-print or print on demand, to fulfil their print needs on their own schedule.
For companies selling print and print-related materials, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in translating what is often a complex, customised, and traditionally consultative product into an intuitive online experience. This involves more than just listing products; it requires creating a platform capable of handling the nuances of print customisation — from design to ordering — in a user-friendly manner.
The opportunity, however, is significant. By empowering customers with a robust procurement user interface (UI), print sellers can meet their customers where they are — online, and at their convenience.
A well-designed UI can simplify the ordering process, provide real-time previews, and offer a seamless experience that mirrors the ease of other online shopping platforms. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also drives engagement, educates buyers, and ultimately boosts sales.
In this blog, we’ll explore why a dedicated web to print UI is essential for the modern print seller. We will delve into how effective functionality can streamline the ordering process, reduce errors, and make the entire experience more enjoyable for the customer.
By understanding the importance of a user-centric UI, print businesses can leverage this technology to stay competitive and thrive in the digital age.
<h3>The Changing Landscape of Print Procurement</h3>
Print procurement has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, shifting away from the traditional model of face-to-face interactions, phone calls, and wet or PDF proofs. In the past, salespeople played a central role in consulting with clients to define specifications, provide quotes, and guide them through timelines and production processes. However, this model no longer aligns with the expectations of today’s fast-paced, digitally enabled buyers.
Modern buyers demand a different kind of experience. They want instant access to product options and pricing, enabling them to make informed decisions quickly.
Self-service capabilities have become essential, reducing reliance on salespeople and empowering buyers to manage their own purchasing process. Transparency is also vital, with buyers seeking clear information on customisation options, shipping details, and turnaround times.
Additionally, they expect control over the purchasing process, available 24/7, to fit their busy schedules and preferences.
A good Web-to-Print UI that allows users to explore, configure, and purchase print products at any time is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. This shift towards digital procurement is driven by broader trends in digital transformation, where businesses are adopting technologies like AI, automation, and cloud services to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
In this evolving landscape, print service providers must adapt to meet these changing demands. By offering a robust and intuitive online print storefront, businesses can deliver the seamless, self-service experience modern buyers expect.
This not only improves customer satisfaction but also positions the print business for success in a highly competitive and rapidly changing market.
<h3>What Is a Procurement User Interface?</h3>
A procurement user interface is a digital platform or portal that enables buyers to browse, customise, quote, and purchase goods — in this case, print and related products — entirely online. Think of it as a self-service dashboard that merges eCommerce functionality with business-specific purchasing tools.
For the print industry, Web-to-Print or Print OnDemand solutions exemplify this concept, offering a seamless online print ordering experience.
<img src="/uploads/w2p-ui-2-900px.png" alt="Procurement User Interface" title="Procurement User Interface">
This interface is more than just a transactional tool; it serves as a way to engage with your customers, fulfilling their expectations while helping you achieve your sales and efficiency goals. A strong procurement UI within a Web to Print solution should include several essential features.
<ol>
<li>A product catalogue with dynamic customisation options is fundamental. This allows customers to personalise their print products according to their specific needs, such as selecting different materials, colours, or designs. This level of customisation enhances the user experience and ensures customers can find exactly what they are looking for.</li>
<li>A robust pricing engine is also essential, as it must reflect the complexities of print production. This engine should calculate prices in real-time based on factors like the type of print, quantity, and any custom features selected by the customer. This transparency helps build trust and ensures customers are fully aware of all costs upfront.</li>
<li>Order history and tracking are critical components of a procurement UI. These features empower customers to view their past orders, track the status of current orders, and manage their accounts efficiently. This level of visibility and control is key to maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty.</li>
<li>Support for bulk ordering and account-specific pricing is another vital feature. This functionality caters to business customers who often place large orders and require special pricing arrangements.</li>
</ol>
By integrating these features, a procurement UI can effectively address the needs of both individual and corporate clients.
Finally, educational content should be readily available to guide less experienced buyers through the process. This could include tutorials, FAQs, and other resources that help customers understand the various options and processes involved in ordering print products online. By offering this support, you ensure that all customers, regardless of their expertise level, can navigate the system with ease.
<h3>Why It Matters for Print Sellers</h3>
Investing in a Web-to-Print solution is important for print sellers, and here are several key reasons why it is so significant.
<h4>24/7 Accessibility Meets Modern Expectations</h4>
Customers today expect round-the-clock access to services. A Web to Print solution ensures your business is available to meet these modern expectations, whether it's for time-sensitive orders or last-minute jobs. This accessibility aligns with the autonomy buyers want, allowing them to research, customise, and complete purchases at their convenience — without waiting for callbacks or emails. Whether you cater to B2B or B2C customers, providing a responsive and user-friendly experience positions your business as a competitive choice.
<h4>Complexity Made Simple</h4>
Print products can be inherently complex, with numerous variables like paper types, weights, finishes, folds, and bindings. A well-designed Web-to-Print solution simplifies this complexity with interactive tools, guided configurations, and intuitive UI. This reduces friction for customers, especially those who aren’t print-savvy, and builds confidence in their choices. By streamlining the buying process with visuals, tooltips, and user-friendly portals, you create a seamless experience that resonates with both first-time and repeat buyers.
<h4>Educating the Buyer Builds Trust</h4>
Trust is built through education. A smart Web-to-Print interface integrates educational tools like FAQs, guides, and calculators to help customers understand their options, costs, and the terminology behind the print process. This fosters informed decisions, reduces uncertainty, and enhances customer satisfaction. By addressing common questions and offering visual explanations, you not only upsell products but also cultivate long-term relationships with buyers who feel confident and valued.
<h4>Improved Efficiency for Both Buyer and Seller</h4>
Efficiency is key for both buyers and sellers. Web to Print solutions automate sales processes, streamline workflows, and reduce manual errors, saving significant time for your team. This allows designers and sales teams to focus on high-value activities rather than basic order processing. Automated systems also enhance order submission, improve customer service, and reduce operational delays, making your business more agile and cost-effective in a competitive marketplace.
<h3>The Cost of Doing Nothing</h3>
Still relying on quote requests and ordering via email or phone? You're likely missing out on a huge segment of the market. In today's digital age, not adopting a modern Web-to-Print solution can have significant consequences for your business.
Without a Web-to-Print solution, you are unavailable when your customer is ready to buy. The 24/7 nature of online shopping means that customers expect to research, customise, and purchase products at any time. If your business is not accessible during these hours, you risk losing potential customers to competitors who offer round-the-clock service.
This traditional approach also creates friction or barriers that can send buyers to your competitors. The manual process of sending PDFs and awaiting quote requests can be cumbersome and time-consuming, leading to frustration and a higher likelihood of customers seeking alternatives that offer a smoother, more efficient experience.
Failing to educate your customers is another significant drawback. Without an interactive and informative Web-to-Print interface, customers may not fully understand the options available to them or the reasons behind certain costs. This lack of education can lower conversion rates, as customers may feel uncertain or overwhelmed by the complexity of the print ordering process.
Moreover, not having an online Web-to-Print solution reduces operational efficiency and increases your costs compared to competitors. Manual processes are more prone to errors, require more labour, and slow down the entire workflow. In contrast, automated Web-to-Print solutions streamline the ordering process, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance overall efficiency, allowing your business to operate more cost-effectively.
In short, not having an online Web-to-Print solution isn't just outdated — it's risky. It can lead to lost sales, reduced customer satisfaction, and higher operational costs, ultimately putting your business at a competitive disadvantage in the market.
<h3>Real-World Success Stories</h3>
Many forward-thinking print businesses have already embraced advanced Web-to-Print solutions, and their <a href="/casestudies/elevating-efficiency-and-customer-satisfaction-with-vpress-at-summit-creative" title="Success Story">success stories are truly compelling</a>.
Business-to-consumer (B2C) Companies at the forefront of this shift have implemented user-friendly interfaces (UIs) that empower customers to easily configure, preview, and order printed products with minimal effort. This seamless experience is not only revolutionising B2C transactions but is also making significant waves in the business-to-business (B2B) space.
<img src="/uploads/w2p-ui-3-900px.png" alt="User Friendly web-to-print interfaces" title="User Friendly web-to-print interfaces">
In the B2B sector, companies like <a href="/about" title="About Vpress">Vpress</a> are setting new benchmarks with their Coreprint solution.
Vpress’ Coreprint Web-to-Print storefront provides deep control over the system's user experience. Admins can configure the look and feel of their portal, allowing granular control over layout and navigation for a personalised and efficient interaction. Simultaneously, administrators can tailor the UI/UX of the entire platform, customising workflows and features to perfectly align with the unique procurement needs of each of their customers. This ensures every client enjoys a highly relevant and streamlined journey within the print ordering solution, fostering long-term relationships and boosting customer satisfaction.
These tools don’t just meet expectations—they exceed them by establishing higher standards for what customers can expect from their print service providers.
Vpress continues to innovate, introducing exciting new features to their Coreprint Web-to-Print UI. These advancements are designed to not only enhance the user experience but also support production workflow efficiencies within the print supplier's operations. By integrating such advanced functionalities, Vpress is helping print businesses optimise their operations and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
If you're interested in learning more about these innovations and how they can benefit your business, connecting with Vpress can provide valuable insights into leveraging these tools effectively.
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
In conclusion, incorporating a robust Web-to-Print solution with a user-friendly interface is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for print service providers. This technology ensures 24/7 accessibility, simplifies complex print ordering, and educates buyers, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and trust.
The <a href="/products/coreprint" title="Vpress Coreprint">Vpress Coreprint system</a> isn't just about streamlining operations and cutting expenses; it's about building bridges to deeper, more lasting customer loyalty. Our customers are consistently reporting outstanding results, transforming their businesses by giving their clients the ultimate in barrier-free print ordering.
To stay competitive and thrive in the digital age, it is essential to adopt a Web-to-Print platform that meets modern buyer expectations. Take the first step today and transform your print business for the better.

Procurement User Interface (UI) is Essential for Selling Print Online in a 24/7 Market

Welcome back to our exploration of Web-to-Print essentials! While the functionalities of any web to print solution are crucial, what truly sets a long-term partnership apart is often overlooked: the human element.

In this pivotal instalment of our series, we're cutting through the noise to expose a critical truth: your web-to-print journey doesn't end at implementation. It thrives on the unwavering, expert support that follows. At [Vpress](https://vpress.com "Vpress"), we understand this implicitly. Our strapline, "Partnering customers to success," isn't just a phrase; it's the foundation of our entire post-purchase philosophy.

## The Hidden Cost of Poor Web to Print Support: Are You Settling?

Many web-to-print providers offer a product, then leave you to navigate complex issues with a frustrating labyrinth of FAQs, automated chatbots, or, worse, a slow-moving ticketing system that feels like shouting into the void. Queries often go unanswered for days, and when a response finally arrives, it might not even be in your native language. This isn't just inconvenient; it's a direct threat to your efficiency, your deadlines, and ultimately, your profitability.

At Vpress, we fundamentally reject this model. We believe that exceptional technology deserves equally exceptional human support.

**Your Vpress Advantage: Real People, Real Solutions**

This is where *Vpress truly stands out* in the crowded print management software landscape. We don't just sell you a system; we invest in your success.

## 1\. Your Dedicated Account Manager: Your Strategic Ally, Not Just a Contact

Imagine having a single point of contact who genuinely understands your business, your specific workflows, and your long-term goals. That's precisely what a Vpress dedicated Account Manager offers. They're more than just a customer service representative; they are **your personal advocate**, a true partner who knows your project intricacies. Whether it's a support query or a discussion about future development initiatives, you'll always speak to someone familiar with your journey, eliminating frustrating repetitions and accelerating solutions.

![Dedicate Web to Print Support](/uploads/900-support-1.png "Dedicate Web to Print Support")

*Ian Nicholson* talks about "Having spent an extensive career deep within print, print management, and print buying, I've cultivated an intimate understanding of this industry's heartbeat – its challenges, its innovations, and its immense potential. This isn't just a background for me; it's a foundation built on passion. As a Vpress Account Manager, I channel that very experience directly into helping my Coreprint customers. I pinpoint exactly how Coreprint can revolutionise *their specific workflows*, ensuring they don't just adopt a system, but wield a powerful tool that **maximises their efficiency, optimizes their spend, and truly transforms their print operations**. My passion is seeing their success through Coreprint."

## 2\. A Responsive, Human Support Team: Real Answers, Real Time

When an issue arises, you need solutions, not runarounds. Our responsive support team is the backbone of seamless operations and unparalleled client satisfaction. What truly distinguishes us?

* **Direct Human Connection:** Pick up the phone, and you'll speak to a real person, based right here, ready to listen and act.
* **Prompt Accessibility:** We acknowledge queries and issues swiftly, understanding that your time is valuable.
* **Deep Expertise:** Our team possesses an intimate understanding of our Coreprint web-to-print platform, allowing them to offer insightful, actionable solutions quickly.
* **Customer-Centric Approach:** Every interaction is focused on solving your problem efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption to your business.

Forget impersonal ticketing systems and generic FAQs. We pride ourselves on the high customer satisfaction scores and glowing testimonials that reflect our commitment to superior, accessible support.

## 3\. True Ownership: The Power of In-House Development & Bespoke Technology

A key differentiator, and often a hidden strength, is a provider's approach to their core technology. Does your web-to-print provider own their software? Do they boast an in-house development team or outsource their critical work?

At Vpress, we keep all development work firmly in-house. This complete ownership of our bespoke technology gives us unparalleled agility. We can:

* **Adapt Swiftly:** Respond instantly to market changes and evolving industry demands.
* **Address Your Needs Rapidly:** Implement new features, customisations, and address your specific requirements with unmatched speed.
* **Ensure Seamless Integration:** Our in-house team guarantees faster turnaround for development work, ensuring perfect alignment with your existing systems and third-party integrations.

This means you benefit from a continuously evolving, cutting-edge solution tailored to your success, without relying on third-party delays or external expertise.

## 4\. Unwavering Reliability: Software Uptime Assurance

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, downtime is not an option. A trustworthy web to print partner should be transparent about software uptime, providing you with the assurance of continuous service. At Vpress, we implement robust measures to minimise disruptions, showcasing our unwavering commitment to keeping your business running smoothly, 24/7.

![Partnering customer to web to print success](/uploads/900-support.png "Partnering customer to web to print success")

## Elevate Your Web-to-Print Experience with Vpress

In the dynamic world of web-to-print, your journey doesn't conclude with the purchase; it evolves and thrives with unwavering support and robust development capabilities. A provider like Vpress understands that your success is inextricably intertwined with ours. From your dedicated Account Manager to our responsive, human [support team](https://vpress.com/services/support "Vpress Support Team") and complete ownership of our bespoke technology, these elements are the keystones of a partnership that truly propels your business forward.

Ready to experience the difference that genuine support and expert in-house development can make? [Discover how Vpress](https://vpress.com/request-a-demonstration "Book a demo") goes beyond the click to ensure your long-term success.

Welcome back to our exploration of Web-to-Print essentials! While the functionalities of any web to print solution are crucial, what truly sets a long-term partnership apart is often overlooked: the human element.
In this pivotal instalment of our series, we're cutting through the noise to expose a critical truth: your web-to-print journey doesn't end at implementation. It thrives on the unwavering, expert support that follows. At <a href="https://vpress.com" title="Vpress">Vpress</a>, we understand this implicitly. Our strapline, &quot;Partnering customers to success,&quot; isn't just a phrase; it's the foundation of our entire post-purchase philosophy.
<h2>The Hidden Cost of Poor Web to Print Support: Are You Settling?</h2>
Many web-to-print providers offer a product, then leave you to navigate complex issues with a frustrating labyrinth of FAQs, automated chatbots, or, worse, a slow-moving ticketing system that feels like shouting into the void. Queries often go unanswered for days, and when a response finally arrives, it might not even be in your native language. This isn't just inconvenient; it's a direct threat to your efficiency, your deadlines, and ultimately, your profitability.
At Vpress, we fundamentally reject this model. We believe that exceptional technology deserves equally exceptional human support.
Your Vpress Advantage: Real People, Real Solutions
This is where Vpress truly stands out in the crowded print management software landscape. We don't just sell you a system; we invest in your success.
<h2>1. Your Dedicated Account Manager: Your Strategic Ally, Not Just a Contact</h2>
Imagine having a single point of contact who genuinely understands your business, your specific workflows, and your long-term goals. That's precisely what a Vpress dedicated Account Manager offers. They're more than just a customer service representative; they are your personal advocate, a true partner who knows your project intricacies. Whether it's a support query or a discussion about future development initiatives, you'll always speak to someone familiar with your journey, eliminating frustrating repetitions and accelerating solutions.
<img src="/uploads/900-support-1.png" alt="Dedicate Web to Print Support" title="Dedicate Web to Print Support">
Ian Nicholson talks about &quot;Having spent an extensive career deep within print, print management, and print buying, I've cultivated an intimate understanding of this industry's heartbeat – its challenges, its innovations, and its immense potential. This isn't just a background for me; it's a foundation built on passion. As a Vpress Account Manager, I channel that very experience directly into helping my Coreprint customers. I pinpoint exactly how Coreprint can revolutionise their specific workflows, ensuring they don't just adopt a system, but wield a powerful tool that maximises their efficiency, optimizes their spend, and truly transforms their print operations. My passion is seeing their success through Coreprint.&quot;
<h2>2. A Responsive, Human Support Team: Real Answers, Real Time</h2>
When an issue arises, you need solutions, not runarounds. Our responsive support team is the backbone of seamless operations and unparalleled client satisfaction. What truly distinguishes us?
<ul>
<li>Direct Human Connection: Pick up the phone, and you'll speak to a real person, based right here, ready to listen and act.</li>
<li>Prompt Accessibility: We acknowledge queries and issues swiftly, understanding that your time is valuable.</li>
<li>Deep Expertise: Our team possesses an intimate understanding of our Coreprint web-to-print platform, allowing them to offer insightful, actionable solutions quickly.</li>
<li>Customer-Centric Approach: Every interaction is focused on solving your problem efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption to your business.</li>
</ul>
Forget impersonal ticketing systems and generic FAQs. We pride ourselves on the high customer satisfaction scores and glowing testimonials that reflect our commitment to superior, accessible support.
<h2>3. True Ownership: The Power of In-House Development &amp; Bespoke Technology</h2>
A key differentiator, and often a hidden strength, is a provider's approach to their core technology. Does your web-to-print provider own their software? Do they boast an in-house development team or outsource their critical work?
At Vpress, we keep all development work firmly in-house. This complete ownership of our bespoke technology gives us unparalleled agility. We can:
<ul>
<li>Adapt Swiftly: Respond instantly to market changes and evolving industry demands.</li>
<li>Address Your Needs Rapidly: Implement new features, customisations, and address your specific requirements with unmatched speed.</li>
<li>Ensure Seamless Integration: Our in-house team guarantees faster turnaround for development work, ensuring perfect alignment with your existing systems and third-party integrations.</li>
</ul>
This means you benefit from a continuously evolving, cutting-edge solution tailored to your success, without relying on third-party delays or external expertise.
<h2>4. Unwavering Reliability: Software Uptime Assurance</h2>
In today's fast-paced digital landscape, downtime is not an option. A trustworthy web to print partner should be transparent about software uptime, providing you with the assurance of continuous service. At Vpress, we implement robust measures to minimise disruptions, showcasing our unwavering commitment to keeping your business running smoothly, 24/7.
<img src="/uploads/900-support.png" alt="Partnering customer to web to print success" title="Partnering customer to web to print success">
<h2>Elevate Your Web-to-Print Experience with Vpress</h2>
In the dynamic world of web-to-print, your journey doesn't conclude with the purchase; it evolves and thrives with unwavering support and robust development capabilities. A provider like Vpress understands that your success is inextricably intertwined with ours. From your dedicated Account Manager to our responsive, human <a href="https://vpress.com/services/support" title="Vpress Support Team">support team</a> and complete ownership of our bespoke technology, these elements are the keystones of a partnership that truly propels your business forward.
Ready to experience the difference that genuine support and expert in-house development can make? <a href="https://vpress.com/request-a-demonstration" title="Book a demo">Discover how Vpress</a> goes beyond the click to ensure your long-term success.

#5 Web-to-Print Essentials – Beyond the Click: Why Real Human Support & In-House Development Define Elite Web-to-Print Partnerships

We're excited to share some great news — an update to the Coreprint Administration section is on the way!

On **Thursday, 29th May**, we’ll be rolling out a refreshed version of the Coreprint Admin UI. While most of the core features and workflows you rely on every day will remain unchanged, this update brings a cleaner interface, and thoughtful enhancements designed to make managing your print ordering process easier and more intuitive.

## What’s New?

The updated Admin UI introduces:

* A more **modern, responsive, streamlined design** for better usability.
* **Improved navigation** to help you find what you need faster.
* New **functionality that simplifies** key administrative tasks.

We’ve kept the changes subtle where it counts — ensuring that the learning curve is minimal and your existing workflows are preserved. But we’ve added just enough polish to help make your day-to-day tasks feel smoother and more efficient.

## Want a Sneak Peek?

We know changes to familiar systems can raise questions, so we’ve included a few preview screenshots to give you a sense of what to expect. These visuals will walk you through the key areas where the interface has been enhanced.

![Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management](/uploads/cp123.png "Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management")

![Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management](/uploads/coreprint-admin-4-tool-tips-moved-1.png "Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management")

![Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management](/uploads/coreprint-admin-5-tabbed-pages-1-1.png "Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management")

## Have Questions?

We’re here to help. If you have any questions about the update or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out to your usual point of contact. We appreciate your continued partnership and look forward to bringing you an even better Coreprint experience.

We're excited to share some great news — an update to the Coreprint Administration section is on the way!
On Thursday, 29th May, we’ll be rolling out a refreshed version of the Coreprint Admin UI. While most of the core features and workflows you rely on every day will remain unchanged, this update brings a cleaner interface, and thoughtful enhancements designed to make managing your print ordering process easier and more intuitive.
<h2>What’s New?</h2>
The updated Admin UI introduces:
<ul>
<li>A more modern, responsive, streamlined design for better usability.</li>
<li>Improved navigation to help you find what you need faster.</li>
<li>New functionality that simplifies key administrative tasks.</li>
</ul>
We’ve kept the changes subtle where it counts — ensuring that the learning curve is minimal and your existing workflows are preserved. But we’ve added just enough polish to help make your day-to-day tasks feel smoother and more efficient.
<h2>Want a Sneak Peek?</h2>
We know changes to familiar systems can raise questions, so we’ve included a few preview screenshots to give you a sense of what to expect. These visuals will walk you through the key areas where the interface has been enhanced.
<img src="/uploads/cp123.png" alt="Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management" title="Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management">
<img src="/uploads/coreprint-admin-4-tool-tips-moved-1.png" alt="Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management" title="Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management">
<img src="/uploads/coreprint-admin-5-tabbed-pages-1-1.png" alt="Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management" title="Coreprint Web to Print Admin Product Management">
<h2>Have Questions?</h2>
We’re here to help. If you have any questions about the update or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out to your usual point of contact. We appreciate your continued partnership and look forward to bringing you an even better Coreprint experience.

A Smoother Experience Is Coming: Coreprint Admin UI Is Getting an Upgrade

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.

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:
<ol>
<li>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.</li>
<li>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.</li>
<li>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.</li>
<li>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.</li>
<li>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.</li>
</ol>
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:
<ul>
<li>User Experience (UX): Ensure easy navigation, fast loading times, and mobile responsiveness.</li>
<li>Visual Design: Use a clean, consistent design that reflects your brand’s personality.</li>
<li>Clear Messaging: Communicate your value proposition and key offerings effectively.</li>
<li>SEO Optimisation: Make sure your website is discoverable by optimising for search engines.</li>
</ul>
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:
<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>
4. Social Media Presence
Your social media channels are powerful tools for building relationships with your audience. Tips to optimise your presence:
<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>
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.

The Power of First Impressions: Why Your Digital Identity 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.

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 &amp; 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 <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.
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 <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.
Ad-blocking Technology
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.
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.

High ROI with Print Marketing: Why Print Still Matters

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!

** **

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.
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 <a href="/about">Vpress</a> 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!

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

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!

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.
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.
 
<h2>API: The Backbone of Integration</h2>
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.
 
<h2>Support: Where Excellence Meets Assistance</h2>
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 <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.
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.
 
<h2>Conclusion: Elevate Your Web-to-Print Experience with Vpress</h2>
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!

#7 Web-to-Print Essentials – API Accessibility

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!

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.
<h2>Where is it Hosted?</h2>
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.
<h2>Under What Security and Governance?</h2>
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.
<h2>How Often are Changes Made?</h2>
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.
<h2>How Often is it Reviewed?</h2>
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.
<h2>What Options are There for Access?</h2>
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.
<h2>How is the Data Stored?</h2>
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.
<h2>How is it Backed Up?</h2>
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.
<h2>What is the Performance/Uptime?</h2>
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.
<h2>In conclusion</h2>
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!

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

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.

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.
<h2>Why Automation is Crucial to Efficiency</h2>
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:
<h2>API and Integration Support</h2>
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:
<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>
<h2>Service-Level Agreement (SLA)</h2>
An SLA outlines the terms and conditions of the service provided by the Web-to-Print partner. Important questions to ask:
<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>
<h2>Workflow and MIS Integration</h2>
Assess how effectively the Web-to-Print solution integrates into your workflow or Management Information System (MIS). Key factors to evaluate:
<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>
<h2>ERP/CRM Integration</h2>
A comprehensive Web-to-Print solution should seamlessly integrate with your customers Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. Consider:
<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>
<h2>In Conclusion</h2>
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.
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:
<ul>
<li>Enhanced efficiency</li>
<li>Reduced manual intervention</li>
<li>Accelerated business growth</li>
</ul>
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.

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

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).

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.
<h2>1. Multilingual Capabilities</h2>
The ability of a Web-to-Print system to support multiple languages is paramount. Key considerations include:
<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>
Vpress has over 26 languages available on the system already and are always happy to add more when/if needed.
<h2>2. Currency Management</h2>
Different currencies are a reality in the global marketplace. Essential features include:
<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>
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.
<h2>3. Regional Variations Support</h2>
Regional variations encompass more than just language and currency. Important aspects include:
<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>
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.
<h2>4. Accessible and Secure Cloud-Based System</h2>
Accessibility and security are crucial elements. Key features include:
<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>
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.
<h2>5. Mobile Responsiveness</h2>
With over 54% of eCommerce sales coming through mobile devices, mobile responsiveness is non-negotiable. Essential aspects include:
<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>
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.
<h2>In Conclusion</h2>
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 <a href="/contact">Web-to-Print partner</a>.

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

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.

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.
<h2>1. Understanding Your Market and Business</h2>
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.
<h2>2. Longevity and Expertise</h2>
The longevity and expertise of a Web-to-Print provider speak volumes about their reliability and competence. Key factors to investigate include:
<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>
With over 22 years of experience and solely focusing on <a href="/products/coreprint">Web-to-Print excellence</a> we can safely say Vpress staff have experienced and overcome every possible challenge.
<h2>3. Sustainability and Financial Viability</h2>
Assessing the sustainability and financial health of your potential partner is crucial for a long-term collaboration. Important considerations include:
<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>
Vpress is a privately owned company that has always been self-funded and never incurred in any debt.
<h2>4. Integrity and Conflicts of Interest</h2>
Scrutinising the integrity of your prospective partner is vital. Key areas to examine:
<ul>
<li>Market affiliations</li>
<li>Competitor relationships</li>
<li>Business transparency</li>
<li>Customer interest protection</li>
<li>Partnership approach</li>
</ul>
As mentioned Vpress is a self-funded privately owned company that welcome cooperation with all <a href="/about/partners">MIS providers and print associations</a>. This allows us to not be tied down to any company and be able to provide a good service to all our customers.
<h2>5. Support for Business Growth</h2>
A reliable Web-to-Print partner should not only meet your current needs but also grow alongside your business. Essential aspects include:
<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>
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 <a href="/products/vdocs">digital assets</a> that can sit alongside print, we pride ourselves on constantly evolving our system to meet arising needs.
<h2>In Conclusion</h2>
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.

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

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.

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.
<h2>1. Solution Fit: Meeting Your Needs &amp; Engaging Customers</h2>
The first step in choosing a Web-to-Print partner is evaluating the solution's alignment with your business requirements. Key considerations include:
<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>
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.
<h2>2. Product Range: Personalisation and Intuitive Offerings</h2>
A comprehensive Web-to-Print system should encompass a wide range of products while facilitating easy and intuitive personalisation. Essential features include:
<ul>
<li>VDP (Variable Data Printing)</li>
<li>Job Submission functionality</li>
<li>RFQ (Request for Quote) capability</li>
<li>Customization options</li>
</ul>
Check out the features offered by Vpress <a href="/products/coreprint">here</a>!
Whether it's customised printing materials, promotional items, or unique designs, Vpress empowers users to personalise products effortlessly, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
<h2>3. Proven Solution: Reliability and Adaptability</h2>
The credibility of a Web-to-Print solution is paramount. Important factors include:
<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>
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.
<h2>4. Integration: Seamless Connection to Your Ecosystem</h2>
Integration capabilities are crucial for maximizing system utility:
<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>
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.
<h2>5. Location &amp; Accessibility: Data Security and Accessibility</h2>
Critical considerations for system hosting include:
<ul>
<li>Data storage location</li>
<li>Development location</li>
<li>Security compliance</li>
<li>Support accessibility</li>
<li>Customization options</li>
</ul>
Hosted in the UK and under UK regulation Vpress boasts unparallel security, including ISO 22301:2019, the only auditable international standard for information security.
<h2>In Conclusion</h2>
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. <a href="/contact">Contact us</a> today to explore how we can empower your printing processes.

#1 Web-to-Print Essentials – System Capabilities

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.

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.
<h2>Understanding Lead Generation Sales</h2>
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:
<ul>
<li>Content marketing</li>
<li>Email marketing</li>
<li>Social media marketing</li>
<li>Search engine optimisation (SEO)</li>
</ul>
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.
<h2>The Evolution of Lead Generation</h2>
<h3>Traditional Methods</h3>
In the past, businesses relied on:
<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>
While these methods were effective to some extent, they lacked the precision and efficiency that modern lead generation strategies offer.
<h2>The Digital Transformation</h2>
With the advent of the internet and digital technologies, lead generation underwent a transformation. Key changes include:
<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>
<h2>Modern Lead Generation Tools</h2>
Digital marketing has become the cornerstone of lead generation sales, utilizing:
<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>
<h2>The Role of Technology</h2>
Modern lead generation has been enhanced by:
<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>
<h2>Benefits of Modern Lead Generation</h2>
When properly managed, lead generation offers several advantages:
<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>
<h2>A Word of Caution</h2>
While lead generation sales have transformed business marketing, it's important to note some potential pitfalls:
<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>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
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:
<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>
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.

Are Lead Generation Sales What they Claim to be?

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.

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.
<h2>Minimised Administrative Tasks</h2>
One of the major cost-saving advantages of a Web-to-Print portal is the automation of administrative tasks. Benefits include:
<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>
<h2>Reduced Prepress Efforts</h2>
Preparing files for printing can be a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. A Web-to-Print portal offers several advantages:
<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>
<h2>Standardized Print Templates</h2>
A Web-to-Print portal allows printers to offer standardised print templates to their customers. Key benefits include:
<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>
<h2>Efficient Inventory Management</h2>
Printers can better manage their inventory through Web-to-Print portal integration:
<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>
<h2>Improved Production Planning</h2>
Efficient production planning is crucial for cost savings in the printing industry. A Web-to-Print portal provides:
<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>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
Implementing a Web-to-Print portal can be a game-changer for printers looking to save costs and increase operational efficiency. The benefits include:
<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>
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:
<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>
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.

Web-to-Print – Improve Service and Cut Costs

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.

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.
<h2>The Tangible Advantage</h2>
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:
<ul>
<li>A sense of credibility</li>
<li>Permanence</li>
<li>Authenticity</li>
</ul>
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.
<h2>Complementing Digital Marketing</h2>
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:
<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>
<h2>Thriving Niche Markets</h2>
Commercial print continues to thrive in specific niche markets. Industries that heavily rely on printed materials include:
<ul>
<li>Real estate (brochures and flyers for properties)</li>
<li>Hospitality (menus, signage, promotional materials)</li>
<li>Healthcare</li>
<li>Retail</li>
</ul>
These sectors recognise the unique value that print brings to their marketing efforts, thereby sustaining the demand for commercial print services.
<h2>Digital Innovation in Print</h2>
The commercial print industry has adapted to the digital age by incorporating innovative technologies. Advancements include:
<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>
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.
<h2>Embracing Future Trends</h2>
The true future of commercial print lies in its ability to embrace emerging trends and technologies:
<h3>Sustainability Initiatives</h3>
<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>
<h3>Augmented Reality Integration</h3>
<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>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
While the digital revolution has undoubtedly impacted the advertising and marketing landscape, commercial print remains relevant and vital. Its strengths include:
<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>
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.

The Future of Commercial Print

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.

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 <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)!
<h2>Enterprise Resource Planning Benefits</h2>
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:
<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>
<h2>The Evolution and Challenges</h2>
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 <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.
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.
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.
<h2>The Future of eProcurement</h2>
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.

The Age of eProcurement

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!

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 – 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.
<h2>The 'New Way' Forward</h2>
So, let's talk about that 'new way' 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):
<ol>
<li>A job is booked</li>
<li>The job is printed</li>
<li>The job is finished &amp; dispatched</li>
</ol>
<h2>Breaking Down the Numbers</h2>
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.
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.
<h2>The Power of Automation</h2>
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.
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.
<h2>The Bottom Line</h2>
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.
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 &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!

Why Workflow Matters

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.*

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!
<h2>The Online Customer Experience</h2>
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!
<h2>The Numbers Don't Lie</h2>
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:
<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>
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.
<h2>The Power of Good Customer Service</h2>
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.
<h2>The Vpress Approach</h2>
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.

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

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.

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 &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.
<h2>Building Relationships in the Print Industry</h2>
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.
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.
<h2>Balancing Friendship and Business</h2>
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.
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.
<h2>The New Normal of Relationships</h2>
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!
<h2>Looking Forward</h2>
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.

Friends or Just Colleagues

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.

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.
<h2>The Evolution of Security Measures</h2>
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.
<h2>Modern Security Challenges</h2>
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.
<h2>Print Industry Security Considerations</h2>
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:
<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>
<h2>The Digital Transformation</h2>
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.
<h2>Data Storage and GDPR</h2>
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.
<h2>Where is Your Data Stored?</h2>
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:
<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>
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.

Data Security for Print

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!

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.
<h2>A bit of history</h2>
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!
<h2>Current view of the market</h2>
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).
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.
<h2>What are the benefits?</h2>
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!
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!

What Happened to the Business Card?

[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."**

<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.
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.
&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.
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;
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.
<h2>Significant Time Savings</h2>
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.
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.
<h2>A Strong Partnership</h2>
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: &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;
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.
&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.
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.
<h2>Strength in Flexibility</h2>
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.
&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.
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;
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: &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.
&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;
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: &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;

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

> 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.

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.

## 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 Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don't deal in lies, Or being hated, don't give way to hating, And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
>
> If you can dream—and not make dreams your master; If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
>
> If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'
>
> If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with Kings—nor lose the common touch, If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds' worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it, And—which is more—you'll be a Man, my son!

Rudyard Kipling, 1910

<blockquote>
The strength to bear misfortune, pain. Calmly and patiently; firm with courage.
</blockquote>
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.
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:
<blockquote>
I know of no higher fortitude than stubbornness in the face of overwhelming odds.
</blockquote>
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.
<h2>Digging Deep</h2>
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:
<blockquote>
The necessity of the times, more than ever, calls for our utmost circumspection, deliberation, fortitude, and perseverance.
</blockquote>
<h2>Staring Down Adversity</h2>
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 &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.
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.
<h2>Best Foot Forward</h2>
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.
<h2>Confidence is Key</h2>
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:
<blockquote>
If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don't deal in lies, Or being hated, don't give way to hating, And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream—and not make dreams your master; If you can think—and not make thoughts your aim; If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster And treat those two impostors just the same; If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken, And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss; If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with Kings—nor lose the common touch, If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you, If all men count with you, but none too much; If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds' worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it, And—which is more—you'll be a Man, my son!
</blockquote>
Rudyard Kipling, 1910

Fortitude – A Story of Leadership Within Print

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?!'

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.
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.
&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;
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.
<h2>A Force for Good</h2>
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.
&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
&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>
&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
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.
<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.
&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.
&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.
&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.
&quot;There is only one con: After 100 sessions Kelvin Bell has still not bought anyone a drink.&quot;
<h2>A Valuable Resource</h2>
<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.
&quot;It has been a pleasure sharing time with a few old friends and meeting so many new industry contacts, albeit virtually.
&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;
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.
&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.
&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;
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.
&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.
&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;
<h2>Open to All</h2>
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 <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?!'

Print Applauds The Crown Pub as it Hits Major Milestone

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.

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 <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.
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>.
<h2>Looking from The Outside In</h2>
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.
<h2>Speed to Market</h2>
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.
<h2>Low Cost to High Cost</h2>
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.
<h2>Instant Change to Planned Change</h2>
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.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
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.
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.

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

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/

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: &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;
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.
<h2>Convenience is king</h2>
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: &quot;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]&quot;
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 &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.
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.
<h2>Learn from the best</h2>
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 &quot;plugin&quot; 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.
<h2>Web-to-Print horizons</h2>
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 &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.
<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.
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.
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/

Adaptability and Convenience Are the Watchwords for Print

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.

## The exponential growth of eCommerce

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.
>
> 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/*](https://www.statista.com/statistics/534123/e-commerce-share-of-retail-sales-worldwide/ "Global e-commerce trends")*)*

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.

Kelvin, goes onto say:

> This process can seem daunting, but it isn't. 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.
>
> 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.

## Now is the time

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 'all'. 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](https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/uk-online-shopping-and-e-commerce-statistics-2017-2017-03-14 "UK Online Shopping and E-Commerce Statistics for 2017"))

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.
<h2>The exponential growth of eCommerce</h2>
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:
<blockquote>
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.
</blockquote>
Kelvin continues:
<blockquote>
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.
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.
</blockquote>
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: <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/534123/e-commerce-share-of-retail-sales-worldwide/" title="Global e-commerce trends">https://www.statista.com/statistics/534123/e-commerce-share-of-retail-sales-worldwide/</a>)
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.
<h2>Web-to-Print: an engine to adapt and grow</h2>
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.
Kelvin, goes onto say:
<blockquote>
This process can seem daunting, but it isn't. 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.
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.
</blockquote>
<h3>Bring your customers closer</h3>
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:
<blockquote>
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.
&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;
</blockquote>
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.
<h2>Now is the time</h2>
Kelvin concludes:
<blockquote>
&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;
</blockquote>
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 'all'. So, the question you should be asking yourself is: Why wait any longer to get on board with eCommerce?
(Source: <a href="https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/uk-online-shopping-and-e-commerce-statistics-2017-2017-03-14" title="UK Online Shopping and E-Commerce Statistics for 2017">https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/uk-online-shopping-and-e-commerce-statistics-2017-2017-03-14</a>)

Why Print Needs to Jump on Board the eCommerce Bullet Train

...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.

...and How it's Changed!
<h2>February 2020 Tuesday morning:</h2>
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, &quot;NOT&quot; 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.
<h2>June 2020 Friday morning:</h2>
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.

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

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.

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!
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 &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?
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!).
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).
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.

Print 4.0

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!

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!

The Race is About to Begin!

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)**.**

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.
<h2>Be honest with yourself:</h2>
If you're still deciding on whether to invest in Web-to-Print, then you need should be considering the following questions:
<ol>
<li>Can we afford to risk losing a customer to a competitor, already offering Web-to-Print?</li>
<li>Am I already having conversations with customers about the benefits of Web-to-Print?</li>
<li>Do my customer focused team members understand Web-to-Print and how to communicate its relevance and benefits to customers?</li>
<li>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?</li>
<li>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)?</li>
</ol>
After honesty, comes truth.
<h3>Customers</h3>
Print companies often seem to be shy when it comes to educating customers on the &quot;art of the possible&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, 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.
<h3>Your Business</h3>
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.
<h3>Planning is Imperative</h3>
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.
<h3>Speak to people!</h3>
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?
<h2>In summary:</h2>
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 <a href="/request-a-demonstration">book a demonstration</a>.

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

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?

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.
<h2>Introducing Governance</h2>
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.
<h3>An Eight Point Plan to Get You Started</h3>
<ol>
<li>Why are you introducing a DAM solution?</li>
<li>How will it work?</li>
<li>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?</li>
<li>Who is going to audit, direct and guide how the solution is used?</li>
<li>How is that direction translate into regular communication with service users?</li>
<li>What are the metrics you will use to report its success?</li>
<li>Who are the service users and what are their expectations?</li>
<li>What accountability is there in place for circumventing use of the DAM?</li>
</ol>
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.
<h2>Who is Touching Your Things?</h2>
If you have anyone 'touching' your digital assets, you need to know what is happening to them.
<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>
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.
<h2>Workflows Working for You</h2>
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:
<h3>Set up, Taxonomy &amp; Administration</h3>
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.
<h3>Approval and Permissions</h3>
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.
<h3>The Lifecycle of Assets</h3>
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?
<h2>Ring Fencing Your Assets – More About Security</h2>
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.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
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.
<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 (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.

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.
<h2>Introducing Governance</h2>
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.
<h3>An Eight Point Plan to Get You Started</h3>
<ol>
<li>Why are you introducing a DAM solution?</li>
<li>How will it work?</li>
<li>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?</li>
<li>Who is going to audit, direct and guide how the solution is used?</li>
<li>How is that direction translate into regular communication with service users?</li>
<li>What are the metrics you will use to report its success?</li>
<li>Who are the service users and what are their expectations?</li>
<li>What accountability is there in place for circumventing use of the DAM?</li>
</ol>
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.
<h2>Who is Touching Your Things?</h2>
If you have anyone 'touching' your digital assets, you need to know what is happening to them.
<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>
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.
<h2>Workflows Working for You</h2>
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.
<h2>Ring Fencing Your Assets – More About Security</h2>
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.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
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.

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

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