Q: What is a print broker?

A: The print broker is another brand of middleman between print manufacturers and customers. Print brokers are independent, as they're not directly employed by the printing companies they represent. However, in some ways the broker is similar to the in-house printer rep, marketing specialist, designer, etc. For example, you would expect your marketing specialist to add value to your print project through effective planning and management. You rely upon their knowledge of manufacturing materials and processes, workflow issues, and judgment on timing. If you have a custom project with lots of problems to solve, then you appreciate the value of a committed and capable specialist that safely navigates your project through the production process. So in this way the function of a print broker and marketing specialist is similar.

In any event you would expect your specialist or print broker to help you define your problems and be open about their abilities to deliver the design and print solutions that you require. You will find a great level of marketing, designing and printing expertise at Direct Choice Printing and Graphics (DCPG).

Q: How is a DCPG different from an in-house printer sales rep or marketing specialist?

A: If your in-house printer sales rep or specialist is swamped with a variety of projects and overwhelmed with demands to produce, then DCPG would be a valuable addition to your production team. Moreover, DCPG would also be an asset if you don't have an in-house  printer sales rep or specialist to take care of your projects.  We are not on your company payroll and don't incur expenses such as health and other benefits that a full-time employee would.

Q: Why should I call DCPG when I can purchase direct from the print manufacturer?

A: Our responsibility is to find marketplace value. If you're an office manager, business owner, designer or marketing specialist then you know the work it takes to identify your production problems, define specifications, and design projects. Someone must do this work to deliver your needs for business/marketing collateral. If you possess the expertise, time, and resources needed to define specs, select print manufacturers, and manage your projects day-to-day, then you should do so. In your case a print broker like us probably would not add value to your projects.

On the other hand, if you are short the resources needed to devote to the designing and printing process, then enlisting our services would be a good call to save you money, prevent waste, and insure timely delivery of projects.

Q: I have a complex print project, but can handle it myself. Why should I use your services?

A: When you have the resources available to handle your work it usually wouldn't make sense to request our services.

Q: Like all professions, there are a few unscrupulous print brokers. How can I spot them?

A: Reputation, reputation, reputation.  Choose a print broker in the same way that you would select a printer rep. Keep in mind the scope and specifications of your project and workflow when asking questions about qualifications and discussing your specific needs. Referrals and testimonials from your colleagues can be an excellent starting point to help you locate a qualified print broker.  You can check out our testimonials as well.

Q: How important is proximity?

A: Depending upon your situation, proximity to your print broker might be less important than the broker's proximity to the print manufacturing facilities where your work is being produced. With remote proofing, e-mail, overnight and messenger services, proximity is less important than finding a knowledgeable print broker that can answer most of your questions and assess your project critically. A print broker that thinks like a businessperson standing in your shoes can be an invaluable member of your production force.

So, what are you waiting for?  Schedule a marketing consultation for your complex project today!