There has been much debate about the state of the print industry. With so many technological advancements emerging, some argue that paper will soon entirely be replaced with digital. However, there are countless studies and plenty of research to counteract that argument. Organizations across all verticals and markets still need print processes and systems to efficiently manage operations. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly necessary for print service providers to distinguish themselves from competitors and offer the innovative solutions needed to help fuel the success of their customers.

Make no mistake: Artificial intelligence is not a threat to the paper business. At least, it doesn't have to be. The difference between a print company that is overshadowed by the Internet of Things and one that is strengthened by it boils down to the way in which the digital technologies are utilized.

Print advertising advantages
The world of marketing is overcrowded with organizations trying to reach potential customers online and through digital devices. Fortunately, this offers print advertisement professionals an advantageous opportunity to access audiences through channels that are less congested. Internet marketing may be rapidly evolving and quickly gaining popularity, but that doesn't necessary mean it is the best or most effective approach. In fact, according to Adweek, research has found that print ads can actually be more effective because they often increase awareness and are remembered better than digital content.

Paper-based marketing may not be right for every business and that's okay. In many situations, though, maintaining a healthy balance between digital and print solutions is an effective strategy for reaching a wide range of people. When searching online, it's easy to find just as many experts insisting physical ads are more influential than digital as it is to find arguments supporting a complete digital transition. Why not incorporate a little of both?

Print distributors are encouraged to create partnerships with industry experts that can provide them with a diverse line up of features and functions for modern printing processes. Being backed by a flexible yet full suite of capabilities will put companies in an ideal position to meet the specific needs of a dynamic collection of customers.

Consistent service through cohesive systems
There are many ways that printing service providers can use electronic systems to improve performance and reduce the risk of human error. Data and analytics provide the enhanced insight needed to improve operational functions and productivity, increase customer satisfaction and appeal to target audiences. Integrative software and programs can elevate efficiency and create faster turnaround.

In an article for Global Trade Daily, Tom Reddon recently said that automation will be a major supply train trend this year because streamlining operations helps free businesses up, letting them worry less about individual functions and more about providing quality service. It would be silly for print companies, or any type of organization for that matter, to not take advantage of the innovative technologies at the their disposal. 

Online portals consolidate all important functions and enhance access to essential information. Rather than operating in silos, it is highly recommended that print distributors increase connectivity and create a more organized and integrated approach that is in tune with the fast pace of today's environment.

Optimizing inventory and order management
Many companies face significant challenges when it comes to handling the order, warehousing and distribution side of operations. It makes sense, because these functions require a lot of effort and attention to maintain. One mistake could create a serious ripple effect of disruption along the supply chain and even lead to financial loss or production delays.

To grow their business, it is crucial that print service providers consistently exceed consumer expectations. However, achieving this goal is considerably more difficult when there is a lack of fluid inventory and order management in place. Systemizing these aspects of business will facilitate smoother operations and enhanced customer satisfaction.

With digital applications and Web-based platforms, orders can be tracked and released in real time, shipment notifications and summaries can be made, invoices can be reproduced and printed, and inventory levels can be monitored and reported. Getting support from a third-party solutions company that has online and mobile-enabled technologies to control these processes will allow print business leaders to focus on what really matters: their customers.