Five Features to Look for In Grand Format Print Estimating Software

If your print business includes printers wider than 100 inches, you need a print estimating and ordering management system with grand format print estimating capabilities.

Running a 126-inch grand-format printer is different than running two 60-inch printers. Your ink and media costs could be less per square foot, but you will have higher expenses related to maintenance agreements, material handling and storage, finishing, shipping, and installation. For supersized event and display graphics, some clients may need extra help with design and
prepress services.

Accurately estimating grand-format jobs is critical because mistakes can be costly. If you don’t include sufficient margin on each job, you could quickly lose money if you have to reprint the job due to a printing error. You can also waste a lot of material if the job isn’t specifically laid out to minimize waste.

Grand-format print estimating can be complicated because the machines are quite versatile. Some super wide graphics printers can be used to print seamless super wide banners, soft signage, building wraps, wallscapes, and backdrops on 10.5 ft. wide media or high volumes of smaller posters and signs on side-by-side rolls of 63-inch wide media.

Production speeds and ink usage will also vary depending on how the graphics will be used...
Banners that will be hung from the ceiling and viewed from a distance don’t require the same print quality and image resolution as wallscapes that will decorate a room.

Essential Functions to look for in Grand-Format Printing Software.

Tailored Pricing Strategies for Grand-Format Printing:

Grand-format printing is unique, requiring pricing that fits its specialized nature. Unlike smaller prints, you can't rely on standard pricing models. Your business model plays a role in determining how you set prices. You can offer these services directly to various clients like exhibit companies, ad agencies, or opt to supply other print shops with wholesale grand-format printing for sporadic orders. Your pricing approach depends on your target market and business goals.

Customized Sizing Estimates:

Supersized graphics are all about making an impact, so standard sizes are few. These visuals might grace buildings, hang from convention center ceilings, or adorn high-traffic airport corridors. Estimating custom sizes is crucial, as it lets you provide accurate quotes and cater to diverse, impactful graphic needs.

Streamlined Imposition and Layout:

Efficient job setup on grand-format printers impacts estimates. Skillfully managing material usage not only conserves resources but also enables you to offer competitive quotes. By optimizing the way you lay out print jobs, you can decrease waste and provide more cost-effective solutions.

Rapid Shipping Cost Calculation:

Shipping grand-format graphics differs from shipping traditional print items. To offer accurate estimates, you need precise shipping cost calculations. Not all software systems accommodate these calculations, especially for larger formats. Providing quick and precise shipping cost information helps clients make informed decisions.

Meeting Growing Demand:

The demand for grand-format printing is rising as more industries discover its potential. Events, exhibits, outdoor ads, pop-up shops, and experiential marketing activations all benefit from grand-format graphics. These printers can produce impactful backdrops, window graphics, room dividers, seamless wall coverings, and expansive floor graphics. As these possibilities become more known, the demand for grand-format printing is likely to continue growing.

At Ordant software, we understand the special requirements of grand-format printing because many of our customers have large-format and grand-format printing equipment. We have helped these customers set up print estimating and order management systems that are powerful, customizable, and easy to use. With our optional web-to-print module, we can also help you set up a storefront that makes it easy for customers to order grand-format graphics from you.

To learn more about how Ordant software can help you be more efficient and profitable in running a grand-format printing business, please visit www.ordant.com and schedule a demo.

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