When I started Glerin in 1996, many "experts" were already prediciting the death of print collaterals. While it's true that many print items aren't needed any more, the internet has actually been good for the print industry - but only for quality printers who have adapted to new markets. There's just something about holding an item in your hand that can never be replaced.

Due to advances in color printing, you're now able to use print materials in a more discerning way while using your website to present content that is apt to change. Being able to take advantage of short print runs lets you create unique, high quality pieces in small numbers and when you're ready to make a change you don't have thousands of copies to throw away.

Here are 12 tips to help you get the most out of your print marketing budget:

A couple of months back several clients asked for a joint brochure and digital presentation to be created, one that they could take to the Farnborough International Airshow, the world's largest aerospace event. The event is held every other year at Farnborough Airport in Hampshire, England. Our clients Mid-Atlantic Broadband Cooperative Communities, Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, and Virginia's Growth Alliance were attending the show as a team, displaying in the Virginia Economic Development Partnership booth.

The clients wanted a 4-panel brochure that didn't open accordian-like, and requested a die-cut design. Printer Dogwood Graphics in South Hill, VA, advised that die-cut would add a substantial amount to the cost, so we worked with them to devise a concept for the illusion of a die-cut. Dogwood chose a hefty cardstock for printing, and the brochure turned out great!

At right are photos of notes & sketches from our initial meeting with the clients, a proof printed on plain ink jet paper to test the concept, and a proof printed by Dogwood Graphics (we'll post pix of the entire brochure later). Below are photos from the Farnborough Airshow. Click any photo to enlarge.