Is Business Printing Relevant in This Online World?

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by: temerity
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Word Count: 456
Date: Mon, 25 Oct 2010 Time: 9:48 PM
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Is it still really necessary to have printed material in this online world?

In a nutshell, yes.

People like to hold stuff. They like to read it now, put it aside to look at later or show someone else. It is easy to store and read in bed, rather than having to open up a laptop and let it load, before you can look at the document on your computer.

We as humans like touch and you can't touch an online marketing email. You can't present it at a meeting either. Printed material still plays a very crucial role in today's society, and this is most evident in the business world.

Got a small print budget - no problem. You don't really need letterhead or with compliments slips anymore (thanks to email) but just about every business needs a business card. Your clients need to be able to get in touch with you without having to open their computer. Having your business card handy will allow them to contact you easily, by phone or via email. Business cards are also great to give potential clients or colleagues, rather than having to go to the trouble of storing their number in your phone when you meet out at a function. Or vice versa.

These days you can have quality business cards printed from $40. (The recipient of your business cards might drum up business for you by passing on your card to other people. These are valuable leads too, so always leave 2 cards.

If you're selling a product then you should probably have a brochure or flier. You will need it to mail out to prospects, hand out at events, and leave at meetings. In terms of business printing this can be the most effective type to drum up new leads. These can be purchased from a printing company for a very cost effective price, and for as little as 250 brochures.

If you have a larger budget you might be able afford promotional products. Everyone loves a freebie, and what better customer gift than a useful product with your logo on it (the gift that keeps on giving - back to you). Branded pens and keyrings can cost under $1 each when you buy as few as 100. Caps and mugs usually only cost a little bit more and are great to give away. People will continually wear and drink from these products and that's more exposure and free advertising to you! The prices are affordable. And tax deductable.

So yes, it is still really necessary to have printed material in this online world. And now many papers are 100% recycled from sustainable forests, which is an even greater reason to continue with your printed material to help grow your business.

About the Author

Elliot Dean provides information on business printing alongside his affordable web design company