You can’t read a trade publication, visit a print industry website, or attend a conference without hearing how web-to-print and automation are reshaping the industry. Driven by changing customer expectations—accelerated further by the pandemic—print providers are under increasing pressure to deliver a seamless, user-friendly e-commerce experience.
Web-to-print has become a cornerstone technology, enabling businesses to manage print orders online, streamline customization, and maintain brand consistency across a wide range of materials.
But with so many web-to-print platforms available, how do you know which one is right for your business? Is it easy for both staff and customers to use? Can it integrate with your critical systems—like your CRM, MIS, or print production hardware?
Will it help you scale your business without adding more headcount?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential features and decision points to consider when comparing web-to-print solutions.
Understanding Web-to-Print Solutions
At its core, a web-to-print platform allows users to order, customize, and manage printed materials online. Whether it’s business cards, brochures, signage, or promotional items, these systems streamline the entire process—from design to delivery.
Web-to-print solutions are used by a wide range of organizations: print service providers modernizing their workflows, corporate marketing teams aiming to protect brand integrity, and franchises that need to support multiple locations with consistent, easy-to-access assets.
The right solution helps reduce manual processes, minimize errors, and create a more efficient experience for both your team and your customers.
Key Features to Consider
When evaluating platforms, here are the key areas that make a difference:
User-Friendly Interface
A clean, intuitive interface is essential—both for customers placing orders and for your internal team managing the platform. Look for systems with clear layouts, logical navigation, and helpful prompts. A complex platform can lead to user frustration and increase the likelihood of costly mistakes.
Template Customization
One of the biggest advantages of web-to-print is the ability to create branded templates. The best platforms offer flexible customization while locking down brand-critical elements like logos, fonts, and color schemes. This ensures every output stays on brand without requiring designer intervention.
Integration Capabilities
No platform should exist in a silo. Leading web-to-print systems offer seamless integration with your existing tools—whether it’s your CRM, MIS, ERP, or production software. This eliminates double entry, reduces errors, and ensures all systems stay in sync.
Security & Data Protection
Handling sensitive customer data comes with serious responsibility. Make sure the platform you choose includes robust security features—such as data encryption, secure payment processing, and compliance with industry regulations like GDPR or CCPA.
Mobile Compatibility
With more users expecting to manage tasks on the go, mobile responsiveness is a must. Whether your users are customers or internal staff, they should be able to access the platform from any device, anytime.
Pricing Models and ROI
Web-to-print platforms vary in pricing—some offer subscription plans, others charge per order, and some provide fully customized enterprise packages. Evaluate not just the upfront cost, but the total cost of ownership, including setup, onboarding, support, and upgrades.
Also consider ROI. A good platform reduces manual tasks, lowers error rates, shortens turnaround times, and boosts customer satisfaction. These gains often outweigh the initial investment.
Customer Support & Training
A powerful platform is only as good as the support behind it. Choose a provider that offers comprehensive onboarding, helpful training resources, and ongoing support. A dedicated account manager or responsive help desk can make a big difference in long-term success.
Scalability and Future-Proofing
Your business will evolve—your platform should too. Look for solutions that can scale with your growth, from adding users to expanding product lines. A regular cadence of updates, feature enhancements, and a transparent roadmap are signs of a provider committed to innovation.
Make the Right Choice
Choosing the right web-to-print solution is a strategic decision that can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
To learn how Infigo could transform your workflows, get our new guide, “Workflow Bottlenecks: The Hidden Cost in Print Operations and How to Fix Them”, and start optimizing your workflow today.
