The Power of Engaging Content

Engaging content is more than just informative; it’s captivating, inspiring and relevant to your audience. It resonates with readers, sparking conversations and leaving a lasting impression. When your publication consistently delivers high-quality, engaging content, you may notice a surge in readership and a more active community of dedicated readers.

Tips for Creating Engaging Content

Here are some practical tips to help you create content that engages your audience:

Know Your Audience

Deep Dive into Demographics: Understand trends in your readers’ age, gender, education and location. Identifying common characteristics between your readers will help you develop content that better resonates with their lifestyles.

Analyze Their Interests: Identify what your readers are most interested in to help deliver the best experience possible.

Tailor Your Content: Create content that directly addresses their needs, interests and desires. This will help each edition of your publication feel like it’s created with each individual reader in mind.

Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

Invest in Skilled Writers: Prioritize hiring talented writers, particularly those who have experience writing in your specific industry. Their level of experience will shine through in their writing, which will help keep your articles engaging for your readers.

Encourage Thorough Research: Ensure articles are well-researched and accurate. Consider interviewing experts and other important figures in your industry as a way to create unique content and build credibility.

Break the Mold: Try to create content for your publication that no one else in your space is putting out. Keep an eye on industry trends to ensure you’re not just rehashing the same ideas other publications are printing – if you can consistently stay ahead of the curve with new and interesting information and types of articles, your publication could be seen as a trendsetter in your space.

Visual Appeal Matters

High-Quality Photography: Add visual flair with quality photography that complements your written content. To maximize the effect of good photography, make sure there’s plenty of collaboration between designers, writers and photographers.

Eye-Catching Layouts: Use visually appealing design to enhance readability. You can even design your publication’s layouts to draw readers’ eyes to important text and images, further enhancing the overall reading experience.

Pay Attention to Branding: Be sure to consistently incorporate your brand’s signature colors, logos and imagery across all designs to help give your publication a signature look.

Interactive Elements

Polls and Quizzes: Encourage reader participation and gather valuable insights. By allowing readers to send in their answers to polls and quizzes, you can create excitement and leave your audience anxiously awaiting your next issue to see the results.

Behind-the-Scenes Content: Offer exclusive glimpses into the making of your publication. Behind-the-scenes content adds a personal touch to your publication and helps remind readers about the talented staff that works hard to put together their favorite magazine.

Social Media Integration: Foster community engagement by sharing content on social platforms. Social media gives readers another easy way to interact with and feel connected to your publication.

Storytelling Techniques

Engaging Narratives: Use to draw readers in. Proper storytelling can turn an interesting article into a literary journey, helping to capture your readers’ attention.

Emotional Connection: Write stories that have an emotional touch to create a lasting impact on your readers. While they may not remember every word you print, your readers are sure to remember the way your publication makes them feel.

Print Quality Perfection

High-Resolution Images: Work closely with your printing partner to ensure crisp, clear visuals that pop off the page. Choosing the right paper type, coating and printing method can help enhance your publication’s imagery.

Premium Paper Stock: Choose high-quality paper to enhance the reading experience. While thinner, lower-quality paper may save on cost, it may result in a less durable magazine that doesn’t feel like a quality product.

Vibrant Color Printing: Utilize advanced printing techniques for stunning color reproduction. Working with a printer that understands the intricacies of CMYK printing can help ensure color perfection.

The Benefits of Engaging Content

By consistently delivering engaging content, you’ll reap numerous benefits:

• Increased Readership: Consistently engaging content can help maintain and even increase readership by making your publication a more attractive option to readers.
• Higher Engagement: Readers may spend more time interacting with your company and the community surrounding your publication.
• Attractive to Advertisers: If your publication is known for high-quality, engaging content, advertisers will be eager to reach your engaged audience and may be willing to pay more for ad space.

Partner with �������Ƶ for Print Perfection

To truly elevate your publication, partner with �������Ƶ. We offer a wide range of printing solutions to bring your content to life:

• High-Quality Printing: Our state-of-the-art printing technology ensures exceptional results. Whether you’re looking for seamless offset printing or advanced digital inkjet printing options, �������Ƶ can deliver an exceptional product.
• Custom Printing Solutions: We tailor our services to meet your specific needs. Our expert Sales Representatives and Customer Service Representatives have the industry knowledge to provide expert printing solutions.
• Expert Design and Layout: �������Ƶ offers convenient design solutions for publications that don’t have a dedicated designer on staff, ensuring each page looks clear and professional.

Ready to take your publication to the next level? Contact �������Ƶ today to learn more about our magazine printing solutions and how we can help you create a truly engaging publication.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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Currently, printed materials imported from China incur a 7.5% tariff. If the proposed China tariff becomes a reality, this means an increase of 10 – 52.5 percentage points or 133 – 700% over the current tariff. For example, a $1.00 book imported from China would currently receive a tariff of $0.075.

Current tariff = $0.075 –> Landed cost = $1.075 + logistics cost

If the proposed tariff increases were to become official, it could significantly increase the overall cost of importing these goods.

Potential future tariff = $0.175 to $0.60 –> Landed cost = ($1.175 to $1.60) + logistics cost

The impact of imports from other countries can be shown similarly using the respective percentages. Core countries of interest that import printed materials into the US include China, Canada, Mexico, the UK and India.

The impact of tariffs on the printing industry will vary depending on the company’s supply chain. Printers that rely heavily on imported raw materials will be more affected than those that source their materials domestically.

Why �������Ƶ is Well-Positioned Against the Impact of Tariffs

One of the many things that sets �������Ƶ apart from our competitors is our strategically developed supply chain. We source most of our raw materials from US-based suppliers, which helps to mitigate the impact of potential tariffs.

In addition, �������Ƶ has a strong track record of managing costs and passing savings on to our customers. We are confident that we can continue to do this even in the face of potential tariffs.

As a result, �������Ƶ is well-positioned to weather the impact of tariffs and continue thriving as a successful printing company, regardless of economic conditions over the next several years.

Learn More About the Benefits of Choosing �������Ƶ

The potential impact of tariffs on the printing industry is significant. However, printers that have a strong domestic supply chain, like �������Ƶ, are well-positioned to weather the impact. If you are a publisher who is concerned about the impact of tariffs, we encourage you to reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you mitigate the risks.

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That’s why we at �������Ƶ suggest partnering with a family-owned printing company. The right partner can give you the same benefits as a large corporation with more flexibility and personalized service. Read on to discover more of the perks a family-owned printer like �������Ƶ can offer.

Personalized Service

One of the most significant advantages of choosing a family-owned printing partner is the personalized service they provide. Family-owned businesses often have a deep-rooted commitment to customer satisfaction, leading to a more attentive and responsive approach.

• Knowledgeable Staff: Family-owned printers frequently employ experienced staff who are passionate about their craft, as these printing experts reflect well on their business. This expertise ensures that you receive helpful advice and guidance throughout your project, and are less likely to experience delays and quality issues.
• Quick Response Times: Smaller, family-run operations often have streamlined processes and fewer bureaucratic hurdles, allowing them to respond to your needs promptly. If you’ve ever been in a situation where you needed a last-minute change made to your project, you understand how crucial this can be.
• Tailored Solutions: Family-owned businesses are adept at customizing services to meet specific requirements. Whether you need a simple saddle stitch magazine or an embossed, casebound book, they can tailor their offerings to suit your unique needs.

Price Flexibility

Family-owned printers are often able to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality. Their smaller overhead costs and direct relationships with suppliers can translate into significant savings for their clients.

• Creative Solutions: When working with a family-owned printer that really values your business, they may be more able to find creative solutions to help maintain your budget while still delivering the product you need. For example, when Sophia Institute Press came to �������Ƶ with an idea for a new project, we were able to utilize specialty printing equipment in our Ripon, Wisconsin, printing facility to realize their vision while staying comfortably within their budget.
• Long-Term Partnerships: Building strong relationships with family-owned businesses can lead to long-term partnerships, offering consistent quality and more familiarity with your project, meaning you’ll be the first to know about potential cost-saving solutions.

Building Strong Partnerships

Beyond the practical benefits, choosing a family-owned printing partner can foster a deeper connection and build stronger relationships.

• Shared Values: Family-owned businesses often share similar values with their clients, such as a commitment to quality, integrity and community. They may have a particularly strong commitment to sustainability, or prioritize safety for all employees.
• Trust and Transparency: Open communication and trust are essential in any business relationship. Family-owned printers prioritize these values, fostering a collaborative and transparent partnership.
• Community Impact: By supporting local, family-owned businesses, you contribute to the economic vitality of your community. For example, �������Ƶ has a history of uplifting our communities, which is reflected in our mission statement: creating opportunities for our team, customers and communities through print.
• Low Turnover: Family-owned companies that support their employees often benefit from low turnover; a benefit that you as a customer can also enjoy. When building a long-term relationship with a family-owned printing company, it’s likely that you’ll be working with the same skilled employees for years to come and won’t have to struggle to adjust to a new point of contact. 

Partner With �������Ƶ, a Family-Owned Printer

By choosing a family-owned printing partner, you’re not just selecting a vendor; you’re building a lasting relationship with a business that shares your values and is committed to your success. At �������Ƶ, we embody the values and advantages of a family-owned printing partner. We offer personalized service, competitive pricing and a commitment to building long-lasting relationships with our partners.

For your next printing project, consider partnering with �������Ƶ. We’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and high-quality books, magazines and catalogs. If you’d like to learn more about what �������Ƶ has to offer, get in touch with us today.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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In this article, we’ll discuss why as an American publisher, you’re most likely better off choosing a printing partner that operates and prints solely in the United States.

The Timeliness Advantage

Reduced Lead Times

If your business and customers are located in the United States, working with an American printer is more than likely going to drastically reduce shipping times compared to an overseas printer. These faster turnaround times can be a game changer, especially for publications that focus on timely issues like sports and politics. But even for other types of print products, like books and catalogs, faster shipping means happier customers.

Improved Communication

Communication with your printing partner will be much easier if they’re located in the same country. Working with an overseas printer can come with massive time zone differences that make instant communication difficult. Easier communication can lead to faster problem-solving, helping ensure print runs are executing smoothly and to your exact specifications.

Some publishers also like to visit the printing facility for an in-person press check, giving them a better understanding of what their final product will look like. An in-person visit is much more feasible if the plant is a three-hour drive away versus a 12-hour flight. 

Greater Flexibility

During the printing process, last-minute requests and changes may arise. By operating close to home, domestic printers are more able to accommodate these requests than international printers, ensuring your final product reflects your desired changes. And, with quicker turnaround times, last-minute reprints become much easier and won’t require weeks or months of waiting for products to clear customs. 

Supporting American Values

Ethical Sourcing

Some publishers choose to work with an American printing partner because they prioritize supporting ethical business practices. For example, Geoff from MCDM Productions told us when his company was looking for a new printing partner, it was important for them to find a company that matched their own values. “We take employee compensation and benefits, and ethics behind paper source and ink seriously,” Geoff explained. “Some of that you don’t get when you go other places. Getting the lowest price is not our priority – it’s about how everything is sourced and put together, and the overall customer service experience.”

Supporting Local Economies

When working with an American printing partner, it’s easier to see the impact your print project has on the employees who produce it. As a family-owned company based in Marceline, Missouri, �������Ƶ operates its print facilities exclusively in smaller towns where our work has a significant impact on the local economy, providing steady, stable jobs for families who have lived there for generations.

Reduced Environmental Impact

For American companies, choosing a domestic printing partner is an important step in minimizing carbon emissions resulting from long-distance shipping. Additionally, printing companies based in the United States adhere to certain environmental standards that help protect the environment from harmful production practices. Some companies even go a step further, obtaining certification from programs like the Sustainable Forestry Initiative and Forest Stewardship Council. These certifications ensure companies adhere to responsible chain of custody procedures, resulting in kinder treatment of the earth and its forests.

Partner With �������Ƶ, a True American Printer

In summary, there are numerous benefits to choosing an American printing partner, both from a logistics standpoint and an ethical one. When you partner with �������Ƶ, you gain access to over 87 years of printing expertise, supported by our dedicated staff of Customer Service Representatives and Sales Representatives. With four state-of-the-art printing facilities located strategically across the Midwest, we offer mailing and distribution solutions to fit your schedule and budget. To find out more about our book, catalog and magazine printing solutions, get in touch with us today.

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This measure would raise shipping prices by approximately 3.2 percent for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express, 3.9 percent for USPS Ground Advantage and 9.2 percent for Parcel Select. These changes to Competitive products come on the heels of September’s announcement that the USPS would not seek price increases on Market Dominant products in January.

These price increases are part of an effort by the USPS to remain competitive in consideration of market conditions while still providing consistent service across the United States. : “As a strategic part of the Delivering for America 10-year plan, the proposed shipping services price changes will support the Postal Service in creating a revitalized organization capable of achieving the organization’s public service mission — providing a nationwide, integrated network for the delivery of mail and packages at least six days a week — in a cost effective and financially sustainable manner over the long term.”

These proposed changes will be reviewed by the PRC before they are scheduled to take effect.

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What Should Customers Expect?

, customers should expect delays due to the strike activity. “Mail and parcels will not be processed or delivered for the duration of the national strike, and some post offices will be closed. Service guarantees will be impacted for items already in the postal network. No new items will be accepted until the national disruption is over.” However, Canada Post assures customers that items will be delivered as quickly as possible once operations resume. To stay up to date on the status of negotiations, visit .

What Does This Mean for �������Ƶ Customers?

This strike will likely affect �������Ƶ customers who send mail items across the border. According to our Canadian mail vendors, they will continue to accept Canadian mail and hold it until the strike ceases and normal mailing operations resume. However, this protocol could change if the strike lasts longer than expected.

�������Ƶ customers who have any specific questions about how this strike will affect their mailing should contact their Customer Service Representative for more information. Customers who use an outside mailing vendor should contact them directly for more information about how they’re navigating this strike.

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In the 21st century, many retailers ceased the production of their consumer catalogs and began focusing their efforts on digital marketing strategies such as email and web advertisements. With the rise of smartphone technology, it made sense to reach consumers where they are and save on printing and mailing costs. However, this trend may be shifting before our eyes. 

In , the reporters discuss the return of J. Crew’s catalog and the resulting rise in consumer engagement. In the words of J. Crew’s Men’s Creative Director, Brendon Babenzien, “It feels like now’s a really nice time to see something different and to touch something and flip through it and actually live with it, because digital stuff is so fast.” In recent years, global retailer Amazon also recently introduced its own print catalog, in an effort to give consumers a tactile browsing experience and ultimately drive them to purchase items on their website. 

The Power of B2B Printed Magazines

Though they may not hold a special place in the hearts of the American Public like the consumer catalogs mentioned above, B2B magazines can be a powerful tool for building brand awareness and increasing revenue. For example, Steiner Tractor Parts built goodwill for their brand by holding a photo contest and printing the winning photos in their annual catalog, as well as offering its readers a 99-cent Steiner hat, available to order through the catalog.

Build Your Next Catalog With �������Ƶ

If you’re looking for an expert catalog printer for your next project, �������Ƶ is ready to help. With over 87 years of experience, we can help you launch your B2B catalog or take your existing project to the next level. And with digital capabilities, we can help you combine printed and digital catalogs for maximum reach. If you’d like to know more about how �������Ƶ can help you engage your audience in new ways, get in touch with us or request a free quote today.

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Offering a Fresh Perspective

One of the biggest benefits of switching to a new printer is gaining a fresh perspective. Print Sales Representatives and Customer Service Representatives are experts in the printing industry and can offer valuable insights and suggestions to help you improve your publication. They can help you identify new opportunities to enhance your design and improve your printing process. 

A New World of Printing Options

Your new printing partner may offer additional printing options to help you create a stunning publication that stands out from the crowd. Be sure to ask about their paper, finishing and binding options so you can fully understand the range of possibilities. 

Streamlined Mailing Solutions

Your new printing partner may give you a leg up on distribution. An expert printing company will likely have access to mail solutions like CoMailing, CoMingling, dropshipping and more. Plus, depending on their location, they may be able to get your publication to its readers’ doors faster and with lower overall shipping costs.

Maximizing Your Budget

With a fresh perspective and a different set of printing options, your new printer may be able to help you find new ways to save on printing costs and maximize your budget. For example, when Sophia Institute Press approached �������Ƶ with their idea for a brand-new monthly publication, we were able to utilize specialty printing equipment at our Ripon, Wisconsin, printing facility to realize their vision while also helping them save. 

Additional Tips for Refreshing Your Publication

In addition to switching to a new printer, here are a few other tips for refreshing your publication:

• Update your design: A fresh new design can help your publication look more modern and appealing.
• : Keep your content fresh and relevant by introducing new sections or features.
• Engage your audience: Use social media, direct mail campaigns or even in-person events to further connect with your readers and grow your community.

The �������Ƶ Difference

�������Ƶ is committed to providing exceptional printing services and customer support. With a long history of excellence and a focus on innovation, �������Ƶ can help you achieve your publishing goals. By partnering with �������Ƶ, you can:

• Gain a fresh perspective: Our experienced team can offer valuable insights and suggestions to help you give your publication a new look and feel.
• Access a wide range of printing options: Choose from multiple printing methods, paper options, coatings and binding types to create a truly unique publication.
• Explore digital editions: Expand your publication to offer digital editions for subscribers, giving them a new way to engage.

Ready to Refresh Your Publication?

If you’re ready to take your publication to the next level, don’t be afraid to make a change. �������Ƶ can help you breathe new life into your publication. With over 87 years of experience in the print industry, we offer unmatched expertise and commitment to quality. Plus, as a family-owned company, we strive to establish trusted partnerships with each and every customer. Contact �������Ƶ today to learn more about what we have to offer.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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Geoff, General Manager of MCDM Productions, spoke with us about the company’s contributions to the world of TTRPGs (tabletop roleplaying games), as well as MCDM’s exciting plans for the future.

Humble Beginnings and Rapid Growth

The story of MCDM Productions begins with Matt Colville, a passionate author and Game Master who sought to share his knowledge and love for the tabletop hobby. His YouTube channel, dedicated to teaching others how to run D&D, gained a dedicated following. Recognizing the demand for high-quality D&D resources, Colville launched a crowdfunding campaign to turn his homebrew book into a polished product. The Strongholds & Streaming campaign was a resounding success, exceeding its funding goal by a significant margin. This success fueled Colville’s decision to leave his day job and focus on MCDM Productions full-time.

Enhancing the Dungeons & Dragons Experience

MCDM Productions has made a significant impact on the world of Dungeons & Dragons by offering a wide range of supplemental materials designed to enhance the gaming experience. Their prestige hardcover books, such as Kingdoms & Warfare and Strongholds & Followers, introduce new elements like large-scale warfare and political intrigue to the game. The company also offers premade adventures in Where Evil Lives, that provide ready-to-play content for Dungeon Masters.

Draw Steel: A New Frontier of Tabletop Gaming

MCDM Productions’ latest venture is Draw Steel, an entirely new roleplaying game that promises a fresh and exciting experience for players. Drawing from the wargaming roots of the RPG hobby, combat in Draw Steel takes place on a grid with robust rules for movement, displacement, damage, and progression.

If you zoom out a bit, Draw Steel and Dungeons & Dragons appear similar; both games allow groups of players to come together and create an original story through narrative-based gameplay. However, the rulesets and playstyles between the two games are vastly different. “It’s an entirely new game,” said Geoff. “It doesn’t use the same dice, the same rules – it’s an original creation. It’s a very tactile game, you really want to have a grid in front of you.”

MCDM hopes the tabletop gaming community uses their books to create their own original stories in their own fantasy worlds. “[The books are] sort of the building blocks that you can use to create your own worlds and adventures. We have an that allows people to use our full text in their own original creations. This is kind of the bedrock we hope the community uses to build stuff on top of.”

A Massive Undertaking for MCDM Productions

Draw Steel is the culmination of a herculean effort from the employees at MCDM Productions. “We have a team of 11 people in-house and dozens of contract artists, designers, testers all working together to make these books” explained Geoff. “We don’t cut any corners. Art, design, layout, editing – It’s a huge investment in time and effort. We’ve been working on Draw Steel for almost two years, and by the time we deliver it will be two and a half years.”

Presentation is an important compliment of game design and a priority for MCDM. “We invest a lot in our illustrations and layout. Really high-quality illustrations are an important part of fantasy,” said Geoff. “Our last book, Flee, Mortals!, had almost 400 illustrations in it, so making sure all the work is delivered to customers inside a high quality book is very important to us.”

A Shared Commitment to Quality and Innovation

As MCDM Productions continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that the company is committed to pushing the boundaries of tabletop gaming. With its innovative products, dedicated team and passion for game development, MCDM Productions hope to offer great products to their customers for years to come.

One of the many things that makes �������Ƶ’s partnership with MCDM Productions so successful is our shared commitment to quality products. MCDM won’t send a product to their customers if it doesn’t meet their high standards, and neither will we. If you’re a publisher of game books or other art books, contact �������Ƶ today to learn more about what we have to offer.

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Utilize Customer Support Staff

One of the most valuable resources available during the transition is the customer support team at your new printer. These professionals are trained to assist you with any questions, concerns, or issues that may arise. Your Sales Representative and Customer Service Representative are there to help ease you through the transition, so be sure to take full advantage of their expertise. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance on everything from file preparation to shipping logistics. 

Your customer support staff can often even give you advice on the best printing options to fit your budget while still creating a quality final product, including paper and binding options, as well as coatings and other applications.

Carefully Review Proofs

Proofreading is a critical step in any printing project, but it becomes even more essential when working with a new printer. A different printer may be working with different equipment, resulting in minor visual differences from what your customers are used to receiving. Take the time to carefully review all proofs and ensure that they accurately reflect your desired outcome. Pay close attention to details such as color accuracy and and overall layout. Establishing a robust quality control process will help minimize errors and ensure that your final product meets your high standards.

Understand Your New Printer’s Capabilities

Each printer has its own unique capabilities and limitations. Before embarking on a new project, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with your printer’s strengths and weaknesses. This will help you make informed decisions about the types of projects to pursue and the specific requirements that need to be met. Again, don’t be afraid to lean on your new customer support representatives to fully understand their printing capabilities. Your new printer may offer new capabilities to enhance your project, such as coatings, binding types or even paper options.

Establish a Relationship With Your New Printer

Your point of contact at the printer will play a crucial role in the success of your partnership. Take the time to get to know them and build a rapport. Open and honest communication is key to a successful working relationship. Discuss your project goals, timelines and any specific concerns you may have. As your relationship with your new printing partner grows, they’ll likely learn to anticipate your needs and may even come to you with new ways to enhance your product or save on printing costs. By establishing a strong connection with your point of contact, you’ll create a foundation for collaboration and problem-solving.

Ensure a Painless Transition with �������Ƶ

At �������Ƶ, we understand that switching to a new printing partner can be a daunting task. That’s why we’re committed to making the transition as seamless as possible. For example, we offer a series of quick start guides to help you get your files ready for a successful print. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and support throughout the entire process. From initial consultation to final delivery, we’ll work closely with you to ensure that your printing needs are met with the highest level of quality and efficiency.  By following these tips and leveraging the expertise of your new printing partner, you can successfully navigate the challenges of a new partnership and achieve outstanding results. With careful planning, open communication, and a commitment to quality, you’ll be well on your way to building a long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationship. Contact �������Ƶ today to learn more about how we make the switching process painless.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google’s PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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