Webprint solutions and the End User

Will web to print users ever see the user interface that matches the web 2.0 environment they are used to? Or will print store owners continue to develop technically driven printers software that integrates with their press capabilities, but ignores an optimal user experience? A web to print environment is more than a simple shopping cart. The variables are as vast as the many types and color of paper stock, finish bindery options and press capabilities. There is an incredible amount of printing programming and integration required. This includes pricing, application, press mapping, bindery choices, shipping and tracking. A printers expectation for a w2p software solution is matched only by the expectations of their print on demand customer base. These demands include online design, native file upload, text manipulation, doc management and a never ending menu of new template designs. All this, in addition to a demand for competitive prices. While in principle it seems smart for printers to develop their own exclusive webprint software solution, at the end of the day, they are limited by not being software developers. Many have likely fallen by the side of the development roadmap, tired of digging deeper and deeper into their pockets to try and keep up with customer demands, before reaching the finish line of the first generation of their software project. Yes, the web2print workflow understanding may exist, but the resources required to compete in a web to print software environment are continual, and substantial. Reaching a finish line can often just be the first step, in light of the costs of maintenance and support. These many factors are likely contributing to the gap between a great web2print space, and other online services. Also, interfaces are being designed by developers with printer consult, and not necessary from user experience experts. In other words, the print ordering experience for users is being overshadowed by technical orientation. The one w2p solution that seems to be rising above the trap of cumbersome interfaces and user experience tunnel vision is PrintSites. Ever changing for the better, PrintSites no sooner had launched their second generation of an exclusive design studio, when they began improving. In fact, they are about to roll out a third generation online print design studio. In addition, they have added native file upload capabilities. If you want to align with a true web to print solutions, hitch your wagon to the one that keeps moving forward.