In most industries, automation is the process of replacing repetitive or redundant steps with IT or machinery to make you more efficient.
In print on demand manufacturing it’s different.
We have unique challenges because we have such large variability in volume and a huge number of product-finishing workflow combinations. And to succeed we have to harmonize a) cost b) time and c) quality across all those combinations.
So what does this mean?
For us automation is not only about using IT and machines to remove repetitive processes, it is equally about having the ability to make every action by each person, machine and system visible and accountable across all of our workflows.
That means every touchpoint in the business should be up for review, from order processing through imposition to finishing and shipping. Every handover point of each sub-process needs to be listed out and examined.
So where should you begin? Start by listing out your pain points – and making sure you have the measurement systems in place to know the size of the pain point (or be selective and chunk it down so you don’t get overwhelmed). With that in place you can take an initial “doability vs benefit” tradeoff.
Automation in print on demand is as much about understanding as it is about removing repetition.
Done right I have seen businesses strip major 6 figure sums from their cost base.
When automation has the right remit, amazing things can happen.
