The path to profitability in printing lies in optimizing efficiencies. It’s almost impossible to achieve reasonable profit levels when waste is too high, costs aren’t under control, and equipment isn’t
functioning properly.
Print optimization is all about improving processes to make them efficient, cost-effective, and highly productive. It starts with assessing existing operations to identify whether changes need to be made to equipment, software, administrative functions, or other areas. Perform the assessment before preparing a plan that focuses on hardware and software upgrades, and regular upkeep. The benefits include cost savings, more profitability, and greater competitiveness.
Steps of Print Optimization
Audit Operations
Achieving optimization begins with a clear understanding of current operations and levels of efficiency. A thorough audit can unearth hidden costs, repetitive tasks that drain time, bottlenecks that hamper productivity, waste, redundancies, and other problem areas.
A thorough review of equipment will show whether printers and bindery equipment are functioning properly, need maintenance, or are properly profiled and calibrated to meet recommended standards.
Make a Plan
Once the audit identifies inefficiencies, the next step is to outline a plan for improvement. Fix anything that can be tweaked to run better. Identify, price, and implement the steps that need upgrading. Like any other plan, goals and outcomes should be measurable.
Equipment and Hardware
Adding modern printers, presses, and other devices can significantly improve efficiency with faster print times and consistent quality and color control across jobs. High-speed presses and automated finishing equipment can be more efficient than many legacy pieces of technology, and they can also cut steps from production.
When printers bring in new devices, it’s a good time to review shop layout for maximum efficiency, and to assess whether it’s time to consolidate, update, or eliminate existing machines.
Software and Automation
The right software can bring immense efficiency improvements to any production facility by reducing errors and promoting better resource allocation. These systems can streamline the production process from customer onboarding to mailing. They automate manual or repetitive tasks like data entry, order intake, estimating, or invoicing. They can manage scheduling, and modernize every step in the production journey.
Production automation software can also track the performance of the printing process, anticipate bottlenecks, review costs and utilization, monitor usage and downtime, and provide an extensive central overview of how a shop is performing. All this data can be used to make informed decisions.
Regular Maintenance Program
Regular maintenance and timely updates of software that drives equipment prevent unexpected downtimes, ensure continuously smooth operations, and extend the lifespan of machines. Schedule software for regular updates and arrange for periodic equipment checkups and service. Staff should have basic training in how to handle machines and do some basic troubleshooting. Monitor all equipment for proper calibration standards. Remote monitoring can also note inefficiencies, flag maintenance issues, and generate reminders to order supplies.
Staff Training
It’s important that staff understand and internalize the concept of print optimization. Regular training sessions, seminars and other instruction can help them troubleshoot basic problems or identify them before they can cause any damage. A well-trained staff is the first line of defense against inefficiency and waste.
Print optimization is not simply a task; it’s an ongoing commitment to continuous monitoring, assessments, and improvements that involve the entire company. Reducing waste and costs, maximizing asset allocation, and improving output are competitive advantages that every print shop needs in today’s tight market.