From Manual to Online

In the foreseeable future, by 2030, the standard procedure for print orders will predominantly shift to online specification and ordering. As this transition occurs, print orders are expected to become shorter, with buyers increasingly demanding same-day or next-day delivery as the standard. Additionally, consumers will seek to make service and price comparisons conveniently online. This transformation will propel the print industry into a platform economy, necessitating more streamlined workflows and efficient, automated web-to-print solutions for print ordering and estimation.

However, before embracing this shift, it's imperative to address the challenges hindering print companies from investing in online ordering and estimation/web-to-print solutions.

Challenge #1: Selecting the Right Online Platform

The foremost challenge lies in choosing the appropriate online platform. Print companies must decide between web-to-print solutions, generic e-commerce platforms, or developing solutions with IT companies. While generic e-commerce or IT-developed solutions may seem viable, they often lack an understanding of the intricacies of the printing industry. Notably, a significant portion of existing customers have migrated to Wsc Printer due to difficulties launching an online print shop or encountering limitations with existing solutions. Thus, it's crucial for print companies to internally evaluate their business needs before committing to a web-to-print solution.

Challenge #2: Analyzing Your Print Business and Building the Right Team

Many printers lack clarity regarding their own business needs, leading to the adoption of unsuitable web-to-print solutions. To address this challenge, print companies must thoroughly analyze their print business by asking key questions:

- What are the pain points faced by customers and internal teams in order processing?
- How can a web-to-print solution address existing gaps in the ordering system?
- In what ways can the web-to-print solution expedite print order processing and streamline workflows?
- Which integrations can enhance workflow efficiency?
- How can the solution facilitate repeat business?

Furthermore, print companies should shortlist several web-to-print solutions that align with their business needs and compare key features, support, and financial aspects to make an informed decision.

Challenge #3: Smooth Transition to Automated Processes and Change Management

Transitioning from manual print processing to fully automated processes presents its own set of challenges, including resistance to change from customers and internal teams. To overcome these hurdles, print service providers (PSPs) can follow these steps:

1. Communicate the vision of how the web-to-print solution will automate processes and improve service quality.
2. Involve key stakeholders, including sales, production teams, and select clients, in the evaluation process to increase buy-in and success rates.
3. Assemble an internal team with the right attitude and a focus on results.
4. Define clear goals for utilizing the web-to-print solution as the primary order management system.
5. Implement a phased launch plan to gather feedback and optimize the solution continuously.
6. Establish robust support and feedback mechanisms to adapt to evolving customer needs and market trends.

While the transition from manual to online print solutions may seem daunting, it is essential for survival and growth. Print companies must recognize the importance of understanding their unique business requirements and implementing web-to-print solutions strategically. Additionally, embracing an omnichannel approach will cater to diverse customer preferences, ensuring a seamless and efficient printing experience in the digital age.