Wide-Format Printing vs. Outsourcing: What’s Best for Your Business?
When it comes to producing large-scale prints for your business, whether it’s signage, banners, posters, or other marketing materials, the decision between using in-house wide-format printing or outsourcing the work can be a tough one. Each option offers its own set of benefits, depending on factors like budget, time constraints, and the desired level of quality. To help you decide which route is best for your business, let’s compare wide-format printing and outsourcing based on three key criteria: costs, convenience, and quality.
Cost Considerations
In-House Wide-Format Printing
When you bring wide-format printing in-house, the initial investment can be substantial. The cost of purchasing a wide-format printer, as well as the necessary maintenance, ink, and materials, can add up. However, over time, the cost per print tends to decrease, especially for high-volume printing. If your business needs frequent prints and has the volume to justify the investment, in-house printing can prove more cost-effective in the long run.
Outsourcing
On the other hand, outsourcing to a professional printing service eliminates the need for an upfront investment in expensive equipment. You pay for each print job, typically with a premium for labour, setup, and specialized services. While this may seem more affordable upfront, outsourcing may end up being more expensive over time if your business has frequent or large-volume printing needs.
Convenience and Speed
In-House Wide-Format Printing
Having wide-format printing capabilities in-house offers the advantage of convenience. You control the process from start to finish, meaning you can adjust designs, troubleshoot issues, and print as needed without relying on a third party. In-house printing allows for faster turnaround times, especially when you need prints urgently. Plus, you can easily reprint or tweak designs without waiting for external approvals or delays.
Outsourcing
Outsourcing can introduce delays, as the printing service may have other clients’ jobs ahead of yours. Depending on the service provider, turnaround times can range from a few days to weeks, especially for custom or large-format prints. Furthermore, communication can sometimes be a challenge, particularly if revisions are needed. This option may be less convenient if your business operates on tight deadlines or needs flexibility in its print runs.
Quality of Prints
In-House Wide-Format Printing
Investing in a high-quality, wide-format printer can ensure excellent results, but it requires ongoing training and maintenance. The quality of prints from in-house printers can be very high, depending on the printer and materials used. However, the printer’s limitations (e.g., size, colour accuracy, and resolution) might restrict your options, especially if you need specialized or highly detailed prints.
Outsourcing
Professional printing services often offer a wider range of print options, including higher-end materials, advanced technologies, and expert knowledge in colour management. Their equipment is typically more advanced than most in-house setups, which can result in superior print quality, especially for large or intricate designs. Outsourcing is ideal if your business needs top-tier quality or custom prints that require specialized attention.
Ready to streamline your business’s printing needs?
Whether you’re considering purchasing a wide-format printer, leasing office printers, or exploring managed print services, Innov8 Digital Solutions has everything you need. We specialize in managed print services, commercial printers for sale, and managed IT services in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario.
At Innov8, we take the time to understand your business’s unique needs. Wondering if your business truly requires a large-format printer or if outsourcing might be a better fit? Let us provide professional advice tailored to your goals.
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