A relationship of any kind requires active effort, a genuine interest, and continual learning. It is an investment that takes time and energy to produce results. This is true for all professional relationships, including your print vendor partnership.
Active listening and the interactions exchanged between two companies help establish a path to a collaborative experience. Growing and learning together builds trust and the opportunity for success. Shared responsibilities enhance and provide an opportunity for a long-term association. If you are only exchanging necessary emails, it is doubtful you are truly growing.
What Makes a Print Vendor a Strategic Partner?
A strong print vendor relationship for any industry grows beyond quoting projects and fulfilling orders. As your printer becomes more familiar with your business, they should develop an understanding of your brand standards, recurring print needs, and the goals behind each project. That knowledge allows them to offer recommendations that fit your priorities, whether you are looking to maintain a consistent appearance, simplify production, or make better use of your budget.
A strategic partner also takes an interest in what comes next. They may suggest a different paper, finishing option, or production approach based on how your printed materials will be used. Over time, these conversations help you make informed decisions and give your printer the opportunity to contribute to your business goals.
How to Help Your Print Vendor Understand Your Goals
Your print vendor can offer more useful guidance when you share the purpose behind the project. Explain:
Who the printed piece is intended for
What you want it to accomplish
How it will be distributed or displayed
A brochure for prospective customers may require a different approach than an internal training booklet, even if the two projects have similar specifications.
Be clear about your budget, deadlines, brand requirements, and expectations for the finished piece. Sharing examples or discussing previous projects can help communicate what you have in mind.
If your priorities change, bring your printer into the conversation early. Growing the relationship requires an ongoing exchange of information, giving both companies a clearer understanding of how to work together.
Signs Your Print Vendor Relationship Has Stopped Growing
A print vendor relationship may have stopped growing when each project brings the same unresolved challenges. If feedback rarely leads to adjustments, or you repeatedly need to explain preferences that have already been discussed, the partnership may be missing opportunities to improve. Each completed project should help both companies learn something that makes the next one run more smoothly.
Another warning sign is limited curiosity about your changing needs. As your business develops, your printer should be willing to discuss new goals, ask relevant questions, and explore options with you. If conversations remain focused only on the next order, consider scheduling a review of the relationship. Discussing what has changed and where you need more support can help you determine whether the partnership can move forward.
Ask yourself these questions:
Taking an honest look at your print vendor relationship can help you identify where the partnership is working well and where there may be room to grow. Consider the following questions to evaluate whether your printer is meeting your needs, supporting your goals, and contributing to your long-term success.
Does your print vendor help you learn or solve problems that may arise?
Your print experience is just as important as the actual product or service that you receive. The more your print supplier knows about your strategic goals and objectives, the easier it is for them to assist you in achieving those goals. ASB Graphics should be prepared to help you solve problems and overcome challenges. An ongoing exchange of ideas will propel you to “think outside the box” together, and ensure your visions are executed to expectation.
Has your printer provided responsive, consistent and timely customer service?
The value of time plays a key role in achieving goals, especially when deadlines are looming. Your print vendor should constantly communicate with you and always provide transparency. Keeping the project moving smoothly, efficiently and timely should not be compromised.
Is your printing partner nimble?
Going the extra mile should not only happen during the work week. Your printer should have the ability to adapt when a quick-turn project is requested or when you need a file updated on the fly. They should also be willing to offer you “test” proofs when expectations are not being met.
Does your print vendor consistently deliver on time?
We all know there are reasons a deadline may need to change or shift. However, if your printer is consistently late and does not provide your shipment as requested, then they are likely not paying attention to details. The delivery process and the support paperwork are just as important as the delivered product.
Is your printer competitive in pricing?
To answer this question, you need quotes. If your current provider is part of a bigger conglomerate or has multiple print locations, your costs will be more contingent on corporate structures.
Working With ASB Graphics
At ASB Graphics, we are always working for our customers. In many cases, we do preliminary work on a project before they even become customers.
We are progressive thinkers who are consistently studying new technologies and upgrades. We ask a lot of questions at the onset of the project quote. If we clearly understand your objective, and you understand our capabilities, we can offer alternative solutions.
To get started, fill out your project details to request a quote or reach out to Cindy, our Business Development Manager, at cchristian@asbgraphics or (336) 906-5562.
