After you have put all your magazine's content together (images, articles, ads, etc), it is now time to print your magazine. Most consumer magazines are printed using an offset press; whether this be a web press (one that uses rolls of paper) or a sheet-fed press (one that uses pre cut sheets of paper. In either case, when looking for a good offset printer, you should consider the following steps:
Research and Recommendations: Start by researching local offset printing companies and ask for recommendations from colleagues or business associates who have used offset printing services before. Offset presses that remain busy all year around are likely to have a good reputation.
Check Portfolio and Reviews: Look at the portfolio of the offset printers you are considering to see examples of their work. You should always request printed samples (copies of magazines, catalogs, newspapers, etc) to gauge the print quality. Additionally, read reviews or testimonials from previous clients to gauge their satisfaction levels.
Visit the Facility: If possible, visit the offset printing facility to see their equipment, quality control processes, and meet with the team to discuss your project requirements. Most customer service representatives will setup an offset press tour so that you can see their capabilities and current publications that they print.
Request Quotes and Samples: Obtain quotes from multiple offset printers for your project and ask for samples of similar work they have done in the past to assess print quality. It is always a good idea to get at least 5 different quotes for your magazine's printing job.
Communication and Customer Service: Evaluate the communication style and customer service of the offset printer. Ensure they are responsive, attentive to your needs, and willing to address any concerns you may have.
Quality Control Measures: Inquire about the quality control measures implemented by the offset printer to ensure consistency and accuracy in your printed materials. This point can't be overemphasized as it is important for you to know as a magazine publisher all the press checks that are done during the printing of your magazine.
Turnaround Time: Consider the turnaround time offered by the offset printer to meet your project deadlines effectively. Normally, turnaround times will vary depending on the time of the year. For example, the Christmas Holiday season is usually very busy for most offset presses, so you need to take this into consideration when planning your magazine's production schedule.
Cost Considerations: While cost is important, prioritize quality and reliability when selecting an offset printer to ensure your printed materials meet your expectations. It goes without saying that you want to get the best price possible for your magazine's print job, but you definitely don't want to sacrifice quality to save a few dollars.
If you take all these factors into consideration when it comes time to print your magazine, you will be sure to get a final product that you will be proud of and ultimately resonate with your magazine's readership in a positive way.