Printing Industries has released a new 58-page comprehensive report in response to member demand, aiming to clarify concerns linked to Web2Print business model strategy. Bill Healey, PIAA CEO, says the report focuses on specific operational area association members asked for to help them ‘make informed decisions about investments and company strategies’.

Bill Healey, CEO of the PIAA

Healey says, “We expanded on a 2012 W2P survey and integrated that into a report that not only tracks trends, but also provides guidance on W2P implementation supported by local industry experiences. “Like many software based technologies W2P uptake, usage and potential has not been fully realised. “There is also considerable confusion around its capabilities, cost, and integration with existing MIS, training and support and, externally – whether print customers will use it.” According to Healey, the fundamental structure of a business to take advantage of a new technology was ‘simple to say but often hard to do’ and was often motivated by the need for cost reduction or greater efficiencies via some form of automation in the business. He says, “The technology, while important, is [only] one part of this shift. The bigger picture requires a more fundamental shift in the way you do business. Consideration needs to be given to leadership and workplace culture, skills and training. “Unless you are prepared to include consideration of these aspects in your project plan – then your venture into W2P could end up being the stuff nightmares are made of – very costly nightmares.” PIAA says the report may not be for everyone, but is intended to provide knowledge and understanding of W2P in a way that will enable companies to make better decisions based on local and international research, industry experience, and guidance with project planning, and by having a central resource of current W2P information. Joe Kowalewski, PIAA national director communications, technology and creative services, says the report is the first Australian resource of its kind combining survey results, case studies, vendor information and international knowledge of all things W2P. “Our five-part report provides an overview of W2P, examines emerging international trends and describes the four most common W2P implementation methods. “It contains the 2014 survey results with comparisons to 2012; case studies detailing the good and bad experiences of eight PIAA members that have implemented W2P; Tips for the Future based on participants’ W2P experiences and a section on data security. “There is a guide on how to prepare a W2P implementation plan, an international directory of W2P suppliers and supplier profiles. “This report will be a dynamic document regularly updated as new information becomes available to ensure it is as comprehensive as possible to help keep our members ahead of the game.” The report is also supported by a website with new information, supplier resources, case studies and other helpful information providing a first point of call for members interested in W2P.

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