Knowing who you can depend on is not always obvious – but an organization’s commitment to getting you the results you need can be more obvious if you observe that they have an established process that is designed to encourage successful collaboration and cooperation among all parties. Here are some key indicators that your product decorator is using an approach that will get you what you need every time:
- Does your decorator suggest that you partner with them to test-print methods and results for your products? (Testing as early in the product development process as possible is best, especially important with plastics.)
- Have you explored together whether your components or finished products for decorating have any contaminates that might interfere with ink adhesion?
- Are expectations being set and agreed to regarding durability with considerations for the product material being printed and its final use?
- Is sharing of product specifications and acceptable design format for clear artwork images being communicated?
- Does your decorator:
- Offer an environment that strictly minimizes any opportunity for contamination before and after printing?
- Invite you to tour their production facility so that you can see first-hand the processes being used and attention to quality?
- Discuss your product packing and shipping needs? (Avoiding damage before and after, in addition to during printing, can be equally important for success)
Service
How well a company walks their talk when it comes to customers will often be apparent in the early stages of communication but really becomes critical at other times like when a project needs to be expedited or the project is under way and for whatever reason hits an unforeseen “snag”. Decorators who understand that their customers may sometimes need special consideration, and the importance of being able to respond to those requests, are vital to keeping productivity up and stress levels down!
Certifications
There are some less known specific process related certifications within the printing industry, but the most well-known, common, and generally helpful certification is ISO 9001. While certifications will not guarantee you receive the greatest service, expertise or quality, they do show that your decorating partner values and adheres to proven standards for how jobs move through their organization and how the work is documented. As with any type of manufacturing, operating in a controlled environment where everyone understands the bigger picture in terms of processes and quality will help ensure all important steps are taken, communications are flowing, and projects meet expectations.
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Wishing you success,
Eric
Product Decorating Specialist | General Manager
