Optimizing for Budget-Conscious Workflows
To optimize printing costs and reduce waste, it's essential to reconsider how documents are formatted before sending them to print. Printing single pages ("one-up") on individual sheets, particularly in colour, is an inefficient use of resources. Instead, consider printing multiple pages per sheet. For example, placing two 8½” x 11” pages on an 11” x 17” or 12” x 18” sheet (the latter allowing for full bleeds) can cut your sheet usage in half, resulting in a 50% savings. This is because most printers calculate cost based on the number of sheets used, not their size.
Keep in mind, this approach requires access to a reliable cutting machine to trim the larger sheets efficiently. Without proper finishing equipment, the cost of cutting may offset the savings gained from reduced click charges.
Additionally, be mindful of when colour printing is truly necessary. While it may seem obvious, many users overuse colour printers once they become available, often for minor design elements such as coloured headings. Keep in mind that colour printing can cost up to ten times more than black-and-white printing due to higher click charges. Use colour strategically to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Finally, always proofread your documents before printing in bulk. Discovering a typo after printing 20 copies is both frustrating and costly. Research shows that people read more effectively and retain information better when reviewing printed material, so it's wise to print a single copy for proofreading before proceeding with the full run. Investing a few extra minutes in quality control can save significant time and money in the long run.
Small changes make a big difference
Southwest Business Products incorporates these practical printing strategies as part of its everyday operations. By printing efficiently, using larger sheets, minimizing unnecessary colour usage, and carefully proofreading materials before production, the company is able to keep internal costs down. This approach helps maintain consistent pricing for customers without compromising on quality or turnaround time. With much of its manufacturing done in Canada and a strong focus on inventory management, Southwest continues to deliver reliable products while staying mindful of the small decisions that make a big difference.
