Do I Need Automation or Handwork for My Print Project?

The next step after your project has been printed is to determine the finishing services you need. Do you go the automation route, or do you choose handwork? While there is no easy answer, it honestly just depends on your type of project and the goals you want to accomplish with it. Automated finishes and handwork finishes both have their benefits and drawbacks. We’ll dive into each type, so you are better informed to make the decision that is right for you and your business.

Automation vs. Handwork Finishes

Automation

In the printing and finishing business, everyone wishes they could produce more things quickly with the same number of resources. That’s what makes automation so great because it reduces quality assurance steps and ultimately removes the larger production bottleneck. Instead of manually handling each project one by one, the projects can be churned out in larger batches reducing the cost of time and money, while also ensuring your project gets out the door more efficiently.

Examples of automation services are: saddle stitching, perfect binding, wire-o/spiral binding, die-cutting, die making, shrink wrapping, collating, and more.

Handwork

To get that final look and feel you’re after, you might consider using handwork for your print piece. Because there’s an overwhelming number of automated processes these days, handwork projects can really make you stand out from your competitors. It shows you took the extra time and effort, and that can really go the extra mile with a customer. While some may argue the turnaround time might take a little longer than an automated finishing process, it can really make all the difference in the added value touch.

Examples of services that include handwork are: packaging, kitting and fulfillment, hand trimming, hand folding, hand gluing, and more.

As the saying goes, “No job is done until it’s finished.” And that idea of “finished” is ultimately up to you and what you want your final print piece to look like – you can’t go wrong with either option. However, to offer a bit more guidance here is our rule of thumb: If you care more about the quantity and less about the details, go with automation. And conversely, if you want to make your print piece stand out with an extra added touch, choose handwork.

That said, it’s always wise to talk to a print finishing expert because there are certain projects that can only be completed with automation or handwork. Depending on the scope of the project, you may not always have a choice in the finishing route for a project. That’s where Phillips can help guide you every step of the way and advise you on the best finishing option to take.

Interested in automation or handwork for your next finishing processes? Reach out today for a free custom quote.