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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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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Savvy publishers support this passion in a variety of ways. City/Regional magazines often are defined by their great design, excellent photography, insightful long-form journalism and superior printing.

As a result, subscribers regard these magazines as luxury items. They keep one issue until the next arrives (or even longer) and look forward to kicking back and losing themselves in their beloved communities. Simply put, local magazines win the hearts of their readers every month.

Promoting Positive Community Themes

Turn on your evening news and you might think your city is about to combust in crime, violence and political conflict. People get tired of the negativity and sensationalism. They know their cities and regions have a far better side. They enjoy immersing themselves in the cultural, social and physical characteristics that define “their place” and support its ongoing progress.

Content That Makes Community Connections

City/Regional magazines help readers celebrate the storied past, exciting present and promising future of where they live. For example, among the most popular content of local magazines are “Readers’ Choice” and “Best of” issues. The magazine invites readers to vote for their favorite businesses in a wide range of categories. Readers enjoy participating and getting to name the best their city or region has to offer.

That’s not to say that city/regional magazines are filled with editorial fluff and promotions. They include serious pieces as well and are a bastion for long-form journalism written by expert staff and freelance writers. Their feature storytelling prowess further engages readers in their communities.

Visually Showcasing the Community

Another way city/regional magazines win hearts is through high-level production. These magazines often provide both a visual and tactile experience that screams quality. The typography, visuals, design, printing and paper combine to create a luxurious item that reinforces the good vibes about the city, its neighborhoods, the people and the surrounding region. It’s not a stretch to say that city/regional magazines represent an art form in themselves. One that makes readers treasure each copy and eagerly await each new issue.

Consider the , a 160-page, large-format, print-only, regional-specialty magazine that publishes twice per year. It has a paid subscriber base of 24,000 and ships in a cardboard envelope to ensures arrival in optimum condition. Annual subscriptions are $70, plus a shipping charge calculated at checkout.

Mike Rogge, the owner and editor who revived the iconic publication four years ago, limits advertising to just 10 brands deemed a cultural fit. And yes, advertisers do get turned away. As you can imagine, the publication is filled with stunning photography and long-form storytelling all focused on mountain culture.

The point is that these geographic-centered magazines endear themselves to readers by delivering more, not less. Notably, this comes at a time when some magazine publishers are pulling back on paper quality and color, making city/regional publications even more of a treat. Add in the fact that virtually everything about the magazines helps celebrate the positive culture that defines these localities, and you have a formula for winning readers’ hearts and minds.

Advertisers Become Part of the Family

Advertisers know the importance of reaching their target audience and establishing a positive connection. And city/regional magazines create an ideal environment for advertisers to win loyal customers.

For starters, city/regional magazines provide a readership that is passionate about supporting all things local. That makes a great environment for local businesses as well as larger advertisers with a strong local presence and community commitment. As the publishers of (a free NY-based title) say, “Essentially, we hand the microphone to the small businesses who support our magazines, helping them to build a strong name in the community.”

To this end, some city/regional magazines are also extending their print readership to create a digital community for daily interaction. For example, a print article on planning the perfect wedding in a particular city might be written by a local wedding planner. An online Q&A with the planner further engages the audience while providing more lead generation for the author-advertiser. The key to strengthening the reader relationship is to have a sound print-to-online strategy.

�������Ƶ Connects With City/Regional Magazines

We live and breathe special-interest publications and promote them at every opportunity. Our multiple publication facilities currently print and distribute more than 225 monthly and quarterly titles. We have a special enthusiasm for the unique role played by city/regional magazines.

That’s not just idle talk. We constantly invest in the equipment, services and solutions to meet the demands of this dynamic publishing segment. Our ability to handle quick turnarounds with ease is supported by advanced premedia capabilities, multiple print platforms, a robust bindery and deep mailing and distribution know-how.

We can also help you reach your audience where they are. While print forms the core of your distribution strategy, you may also incorporate digital strategies to expand your reach, enhance engagement or address readers’ preferences. We can provide you with digital publishing apps, website solutions and other content delivery options to maximize your reader connections.

Getting in touch is simple. Just submit your information and a friendly �������Ƶ associate will be in touch within 24 hours.

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Understand Your Audience: The Cornerstone of Success

Before diving into tactics, it’s essential to have a profound understanding of your target audience. Who are they? Your local magazine’s target audience is linked by their geographic location, but what are their interests, values and aspirations? Conduct thorough audience research to identify their needs and preferences. By gaining insights into their world, you can tailor your content to resonate with them on a deeper level.

Create Compelling Content: The Heart of Your Magazine

Remember: Content is king. To capture and retain readers, you must deliver content that is relevant, engaging and informative. Focus on stories that celebrate the community, highlight local businesses and address the issues that really matter to your readers.

• Local First: Prioritize local news, events and profiles. People are drawn to stories about their neighbors and the places they call home.
• Visual Appeal: Invest in high-quality photography and design. Stunning visuals enhance the overall reading experience and leave a lasting impression. Photography should focus on people and locations within the magazine’s city or region to help foster a sense of connection.
• Interactive Elements: Incorporate interactive elements like quizzes, polls and reader submissions to encourage engagement.
• Diverse Perspectives: Offer a variety of content formats, including in-depth articles, interviews, personal essays and short features.

Build a Strong Online Presence

While print remains a cornerstone of local magazines, a robust online presence is essential to reach a wider audience and foster community engagement.

• Engaging Website Design: Create a user-friendly website that complements your print magazine. Offer exclusive online content, such as blog posts, videos and podcasts.
• Social Media Mastery: Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share snippets of your magazine, interact with readers and promote events.
• Email Marketing: Build an email list to deliver newsletters, exclusive content and promotions directly to subscribers’ inboxes.
• Digital Editions: Hosting digital editions to supplement your print magazine will increase its accessibility for residents who are differently abled, and it will also increase the amount of content you can regularly publish when not confined to can fit in your publication.

Foster Community Engagement

A successful local magazine goes beyond delivering information; it builds a community. Create opportunities for readers to connect with each other and the magazine.

• Events and Workshops: Host events like author talks, cooking demonstrations and health/lifestyle workshops to bring readers together.
• Reader Contests: Encourage participation through contests, such as photo contests, writing competitions or recipe challenges.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to offer exclusive deals, discounts and experiences for your readers.
• Give Back: Hosting volunteer events, supply drives and other charitable events can be a great way to give back to your community, while also building a favorable image of your magazine in residents’ minds.

Leverage Data and Analytics

In today’s data-driven world, understanding your audience’s behavior is crucial. Utilize analytics tools to track reader engagement, website traffic and social media performance. This data will help you refine your content strategy and make informed decisions.

Embrace Change and Innovation

The media landscape is constantly evolving. Stay ahead of the curve by embracing new technologies and trends. Experiment with different formats, such as augmented reality or virtual reality, to enhance the reader experience.

Building a thriving local magazine requires dedication, creativity and a deep connection to the community. By following these strategies, you can position your magazine as an indispensable resource for your readers and create a lasting impact on your community.

Print Quality Local Magazines With �������Ƶ

If you really want your local magazine to stand out, it’s time to partner with a printer that can deliver. As the third-largest magazine printer in the United States and Canada, �������Ƶ’s state-of-the-art printing technology means better-looking magazines, delivered on your schedule. What’s more, our dedicated staff can help guide you through the printing process to make sure the end result is exactly how you pictured it.

Interested in learning more? Get in touch with us today to get started!

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

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The answer, unfortunately, isn’t cut and dry. Many factors influence the printing timeline, from printing method to binding type. After reading this article, you’ll be equipped to plan strategically and ensure a smooth, efficient printing process for your next magazine.

The Stages of Magazine Printing

Here’s a breakdown of the typical stages involved in magazine printing, along with an estimated time range for each:

1. Prepress (2-4 days): The prepress stage involves meticulously preparing your digital files for printing. Prepress specialists ensure everything is set up for a successful print, including high-resolution images, correct formatting and accurate CMYK color profiles. When using web or sheetfed printing, prepress also involves creating the aluminum plates used in the printing process. During prepress, you’ll also likely be given digital proofs to look over and approve before the print run begins.
2. Printing (2-5 days): Though it may come as a surprise, the actual printing stage is often shorter than the prepress stage, thanks to the incredible efficiency made possible by modern printing technology. A modern web press can run at a speed of up to 50,000 impressions per hour, meaning once the press is set up with the correct plates, a skilled printing team can print your magazine very quickly. The printing stage is also when any coatings will be applied to the pages and cover of your magazine. Coating options range from varnish and aqueous to UV, allowing a range of customizable options to elevate your magazine’s look and feel.
3. Binding (1-3 days): The binding process is what holds your magazine together. The two main binding options for magazines are saddle stitch and perfect bound – there’s no major difference in turnaround time between the two, but your choice will affect price and overall quality. Additionally, the printer will inkjet customer addresses onto the printed magazines during this stage, if applicable. This process is known as addressing.
4. Distribution (1-2 days): After a final quality control check to ensure a successful, error-free print, the magazines are ready for distribution. Pallets of labeled, sorted mail are generally taken to an on-site USPS Post Office for acceptance and entry into the mail stream. Or, if the printer is not handling mailing, the packaged magazines are sent to their next destination, whether it’s a warehouse or directly to the customer.

When you add it all up, a magazine print generally takes between one and two weeks from when the printer receives your files to the completed project leaving their facility. Remember, this is a general timeframe, and your specific project’s timeline might vary. Open communication with your customer service representative or account manager is key to establishing a realistic timeline that aligns with your deadlines.

Factors That Affect Printing Turnaround Time

Print Run: This refers to the total number of magazines you need printed. Larger print runs naturally require more time due to the increased volume of paper and the intricate setup of printing presses. Here at �������Ƶ, we excel at catering to both high-volume and niche market publications, offering efficient solutions for each scenario.

Printing Method: The method of printing used for your magazines will affect the overall turnaround time. Web printing, which is used for longer print runs, is able to produce far more impressions per hour than sheetfed. However, setting up a web press for its print is much more costly and time-consuming than setting up a sheetfed press.

Sheetfed printing, which is a viable method for short and medium print runs, can print up to 15,000 impressions per hour. This difference in speed may not affect printing time for smaller runs, but with larger runs, the time savings become apparent.

Complexity: Magazine complexities extend beyond the number of pages. The use of special finishes like varnish and foil stamping, can add to overall printing time, as well as extra services like addressing and coding. Discussing your needs with your account manager ensures a clear understanding and a realistic timeline that factors in these complexities.

Ways To Help Expedite the Printing Process

If you’re running a tight deadline, there are steps you can take to help make the printing process faster and ensure on-time delivery.

Request a Rush Job: If you need a particularly fast turnaround time, you can talk to your printer and request an expedited print. As long as the printer has the capacity to do so, they may be able to accommodate your schedule. Keep in mind this will most likely result in a rush fee, which will increase your printing costs.

Set Up Your Files Correctly: Sending digital files to your printer that are not set up correctly can bring the printing process to a halt. Before sending your files over, make sure they are set up to your printer’s specifications, double-checking things like file type and margins.

Proof, Proof, Proof: Along those same lines, errors in your files can add unnecessary time to the printing process, as you’ll need to go back and fix them before your printer can perform the final run. Make sure to triple-check for typos and other errors to ensure a smooth printing process.

�������Ƶ – Your Partner For High-Quality Magazine Printing

While turnaround time is important, exceptional quality shouldn’t be neglected when printing magazines. At �������Ƶ, we take pride in offering both. Our commitment extends beyond simply printing your magazine; we strive to be a trusted advisor throughout the process. Here’s how partnering with �������Ƶ benefits you:

• Dedicated Account Management: You’ll have a designated sales representative and Customer Service Representative who understand your project’s specific needs and ensure a smooth workflow.
• Advanced Printing Technology: We invest in cutting-edge printing equipment to deliver exceptional print quality at optimal speeds.
• Unwavering Quality Control: Every print run undergoes a rigorous inspection to ensure it meets our high standards.
• Flexible Finishing Options: We offer multiple coating and other finishing options to help you create the perfect magazine.
• On-Time Delivery: We understand the importance of deadlines and work diligently to deliver your product on schedule. Our distribution and fulfillment experts work hard to ensure your magazine gets exactly where it needs to go.

Work With �������Ƶ To Streamline Your Magazine Printing Process

By understanding the factors that influence printing timelines and partnering with a reliable printing company like �������Ƶ, you can ensure a smooth, efficient magazine printing process. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, from initial concept to final delivery.

With over 87 years of experience in the print industry, �������Ƶ has the resources and expertise to bring your magazine to life. If you’re ready 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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How It All Started

Maddox and Archer share a common trait: their humble beginnings in the print industry. Both men started in print right out of high school in an entry-level role. “A friend of mine suggested working at the Ovid Bell Press; I was hired on and started right around my 18th birthday,” said Maddox. “Then, I was a Sheetfed Operator for about a year. I went from there to Web Operator, and after that, I took the foreman job on nights for about 12 years. After that, I worked as the Bindery Manager, then Night Shift Lead in the press room before I got the management spot about two and a half years ago.”

While Maddox has worked in print for around 25 years, Archer boasts a four-decade career in print. “It’s scary to think this is actually my 41st year in the printing industry,” said Archer. “I started out of high school in 1983 as a utility in the press room at RR Donnelley, sweeping the floors and dumping trash, working my way up to Press Operator there. I was there for 11 years.” He then worked foreman, supervisor and management roles at several printing companies in plants across the country, including Denver, Colorado; Clarksville, Tennessee; Jefferson City, Missouri; and Roanoke, Virginia, before taking the manager position in Saint Joseph in 2017.

How It’s Changed

It’s no secret that thanks to technology, the world has changed drastically in the last few decades, and the print industry is no exception. “When I started in the trade, pre-press was still stripping film and burning plates, now that’s all computer to plate,” said Maddox. “You had to key ink by hand, now it’s all automated. The industry has changed a lot in the last few decades.”

Archer adds, “When I first got into the industry, color controls and register systems were all done manually. Now there’s newer design equipment, gapless technology on our blankets, computer to plate – it’s all digital now. It’s reduced errors and increased productivity. In the bindery, with our new binder, everything is set up automatically. We’ve seen increased uptime with the design of new pockets and increased speeds for that same reason.”

The Day-to-Day

Maddox’s typical day as Press Manager looks a little different at the moment, thanks to �������Ƶ – Fulton’s current push to install newer equipment. “Right now, I’m mostly dealing with equipment installations, searching for parts for this new equipment or trying to make new contacts with vendors,” said Maddox. “Overall, I’m trying to get my department to give the next department the best product we can. It can be challenging because a lot of this stuff is hard to come by. But looking toward the end of the tunnel, I know everything is going to be great.”

Up in Michigan, Archer went through a similar challenge when he first started at �������Ƶ – Saint Joseph seven years ago. “When I first got here, the plant needed a lot of change. We had older equipment that needed to be maintained and replaced. Getting a job in and out the door required a different effort and focus than we have today,” said Archer. Thankfully, that light at the end of the tunnel arrived. “Today, we’ve got processes in place. I might have spent more time with quality issues in the past. We don’t have many of those anymore. My typical day today is, I catch up on emails and do a standard meeting in the morning to find out what we’ve done in the last 24 hours and what we’re going to do in the next 24 hours.”

Their Love of Print

Archer cites the variety his job provides as a reason he’s stayed in the print industry for four decades. “One of the things I always wanted to do was come in every single day and it be different. It’s never the same, there’s always something different; you’re making something different. Different content, different paper, different challenges. It’s constantly challenging you. That’s something I enjoy. The next problem that needs to be solved.”

Maddox noted the combination of skills needed to be successful as a reason he loves working in print. “There’s a lot of hands-on work, and a lot of technology is involved. It’s a broad spectrum of things someone needs to know.”

Tips for Magazine Publishers

Over the years, Phil Archer has worked with countless magazine publishers, whether they’re first-timers or veterans of the industry. His advice? Understand the product you’re trying to create. “Take advantage of our onboarding process to understand how your design is going to look on press. Are you using the right paper? For example, if you have photographs, you don’t want matte stock, you want nice gloss,” said Archer.

Archer continued to emphasize the importance of considering what the item will be used for. “Is this a coffee table book, or something that people are only going to read once? If it’s a coffee table book, consider perfect bound or case bound. Saddle stitch is a great way to save money, but it doesn’t have the same longevity.” Having knowledgeable printers in your corner to help you with these decisions can be a game changer.

What You Should Know About the Print Industry

As a four-decade veteran of the print industry, Archer wants the world to understand that print is thriving. “It’s over a 70 billion dollar industry. It’s a big industry, but also close-knit,” said Archer. “It’s all over the world. It’s kind of like being a doctor; you can go all over the world and have a job in just about any city, anywhere you want to go there’s work to be done.”

Finally, Archer stressed the benefits of a career in printing. “There’s opportunity for advancement at all levels. If you don’t have a degree, you can still make it to plant manager. You can learn to be a supervisor. You can keep learning new roles. There are always opportunities for advancement and increases in pay.” Archer added, “For someone coming out of high school and college is not an option for them, the printing industry is alive and well. It’s gonna be there for a long time. To come in and learn a trade and have a career with the opportunity for advancement is a fantastic way to raise your family. We can help with that.”

Consider a Career in Print With �������Ƶ

If you’re interested in starting or continuing your career in print, �������Ƶ is a great place to learn the ins and outs of the trade. �������Ƶ has state of the art printing facilities in Saint Joseph, Michigan; Ripon, Wisconsin; and Fulton, Brookfield and Marceline, Missouri. Our company culture emphasizes trust, teamwork and integrity, and we’re passionate about hiring local talent from the communities that house our printing facilities. and launch your career in print today!

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Know Your Audience

Before you can effectively distribute your magazine, you need to understand who your audience is. Conducting market research to gather insights into your target audience’s demographics, interests and reading habits is crucial. This information will help you tailor your distribution strategies to better reach and engage your audience.

Sometimes, your audience may already be quite clear, based on the subject of your magazine. For example, the audience of an alumni magazine is going to be primarily alumni of its college or university. This takes the guesswork out of building your audience and makes it much easier to narrow down your list of potential readers.

Subscription Models

Subscription-based distribution is a tried-and-true method for reaching a dedicated readership. Offering subscriptions not only ensures a regular revenue stream but also helps build a loyal reader base. Consider offering special perks or benefits to subscribers, such as early access to content or exclusive offers, to enhance reader loyalty and engagement.

Building a dedicated subscriber base doesn’t just increase your readership, it also helps your magazine stand out to potential advertisers, especially if the subject of your magazine is highly specific or niche. A curated subscriber list that’s interested in the type of content you produce will be attractive to brands looking to advertise products in your space.

Direct Mail and Distribution Services

Direct mail campaigns can be an effective way to reach a wider audience, especially if your target demographic is geographically dispersed. Partnering with a printer that offers distribution can help streamline the process and ensure that your magazines reach their intended recipients in a timely manner. With a long list of policies and rotating promotions, working with the United States Postal Service can have a steep learning curve. Partnering with a company that understands the ins and outs of the USPS can provide a huge benefit to your distribution strategy.

Mailing Strategies To Reduce Costs

Once you’ve produced your magazine, getting it into the hands of your readers is paramount. However, mailing and distribution often account for around half the total cost of producing your magazine. Luckily, there are ways to save. Mailing strategies like co-mailing and co-mingling can lead to huge savings when done correctly, but working with an expert is key when trying to navigate postal service policy.

Digital Distribution Channels

In today’s digital age, digital distribution channels are an important component of any magazine distribution strategy. From digital editions to online subscriptions, there are numerous ways to reach a broader audience online. Even though print magazines are still relevant, integrating digital and print distribution efforts can help you maximize your reach and engagement.

Digital Editions

�������Ƶ offers digital publishing solutions that can help you create engaging digital editions of your magazine. From interactive features to multimedia content, digital editions can enhance the reader experience and attract a broader audience segment. Digital editions also allow for more content than print publications, as they’re not limited by a strict page count. This means digital editions are great for providing supplemental content to support the articles in your print magazine.

Online Subscriptions

Online subscriptions to your digital magazine can be a great way to increase your readership. Many print magazines offer lower-priced digital subscriptions, giving potential readers a lower barrier to entry when compared to the cost of a print subscription. It’s also easier for readers to share your digital content with friends and colleagues via social media, helping grow your audience even further.

Tackle Smart Distribution Strategies with �������Ƶ

Effective distribution is essential for the success of any print magazine. By understanding your audience, utilizing subscription models, exploring direct mail and distribution options and creating a digital presence, you can reach your target audience and broaden your reach. Experiment with different distribution methods to find what works best for your magazine, and don’t be afraid to adapt your strategies as your audience evolves.

In addition to printing high-quality magazines, �������Ƶ is well-versed in mailing and distribution strategies, as well as creating digital editions. But what makes us stand out is our long history of family ownership and working with a wide variety of publications to create vibrant, memorable print products. Get in touch with us today to see the �������Ƶ difference for yourself, and to learn more about how we can help your publication reach its audience.

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Design Support for Lean Teams

Schools may not have a large enough design staff to design their own publications or may prefer to outsource design work. �������Ƶ can help by working directly with these staffs to create and proof designs. In several cases, �������Ƶ’s graphic designers have taken the school’s design files and set up regular meetings to refine, discuss and approve designs before sending them to print.

An onboarding meeting can be set up to show how to use �������Ƶ’s program to process PDF files and to explain preflight settings to set customers up for success.

Paper Quality and Availability

COVID-era paper shortages highlighted the importance of paper cost and availability. Pete Gersonde feels this caused a shift in perspective for many universities and other associations that create print publications – the availability of quality paper shouldn’t be taken for granted. This, he feels, resulted in an overall increase in not only the quality of paper used to print these publications but also the quality of the content within.

An established printer like �������Ƶ will have years of working relationships with paper suppliers, which means you won’t need to worry about the quality or availability of the paper used to create your alumni magazine.

Promoting Alumni Giving

Alumni magazines can help with alumni giving by keeping alumni connected to the university and helping them realize the impact of their gifts, particularly when considering young alumni. Some schools may not realize the impact of publications on alumni giving until it’s gone. According to Pete Gersonde, one university stopped publishing their magazine due to cost-cutting measures but quickly brought it back after realizing the benefits of the printed magazine.

An established printer with experience in alumni printing, like �������Ƶ, can help make decisions regarding the most effective ways to encourage alumni giving.

Mailing and Distribution

Mailing and distribution often account for about half the cost of an alumni magazine. Luckily, there are ways to save. �������Ƶ can analyze a client’s distribution list to determine the most economical way to mail their publications. Examples include drop shipping (shipping directly from the manufacturer to the customer) or co-mailing (combining mail pieces for multiple recipients going to the same area).

�������Ƶ’s mailing and distribution expertise means we’re not limited to working with schools solely in the Midwest – we’ve successfully taken on alumni publications across the country.

Digital Editions

�������Ƶ offers subject matter experts to help with digital editions. Combining digital editions with print alumni magazines is a powerful way to increase your school’s presence and boost alumni engagement. “If you have a printer that can give you options on how to customize a digital edition, that allows you to put more content into that digital edition,” said Jason Marsh. �������Ƶ’s subject matter experts are well-versed in creating and customizing digital editions to meet the needs of our university and alumni customers.

Expertise When and Where It Counts

�������Ƶ has subject matter experts on staff ready to jump in and assist our customers. These experts can help with onboarding new accounts and ensure a smooth transition. When switching to �������Ƶ, our subject matter experts can help breathe new life into your alumni publication or improve processes that have been in place for decades. Jason Marsh cites mailing and distribution as an example – our subject matter experts have found significant savings for our customers by finding the right postage class and mailing model.

Ease of Doing Business

�������Ƶ prides itself on being a family-owned company that believes in relationships and the human aspect. “The approach we all take here at �������Ƶ is more of a personal touch – a hands-on approach,” said Pete Gersonde. “We believe in relationships, we believe in human interaction, we believe in talking and picking up the phone.” �������Ƶ’s team will all jump in and work together to ensure a customer’s success, ensuring a streamlined and stress-free printing process.

Choosing a Stable, Established Printer

There’s a clear benefit to choosing a stable printing company you can rely on. “�������Ƶ is an 87-year-old printing company that has been around and is not intending to leave. It’s a family-owned business,” said David Vella. “That’s one of our strengths – unlike some other situations where we see plants being bought, projects being transferred or plants being closed, at the end of the day the customer’s not really sure who the printer is going to be next time.”

Our stability makes it much easier to establish a consistent working relationship between us and the customer, which leads to improved efficiency and less day-to-day stress.

Watch our Latest Webinar To Learn More

If you’d like to hear this information and more from the experts themselves, tune into 8 Tips: Choosing a Printer for Your Alumni Magazine. Or to learn more about the benefits of switching to �������Ƶ, contact us today to get in touch with one of our subject matter experts.

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You certainly don’t do it because you hate to sleep. Nor do you do it for the pay, which is nonexistent. You do it for the real-world experience and the ability to contribute. You do it because you have a passion for creating great content.

So, if your publication printer is kind of meh, you deserve better. You need a partner who matches your passion and delivers print products and services that elevate your publication.

Getting Beyond “Meh”

Here are some attributes to look for in choosing a printer for your student-run publication.

Do they specialize in publications?

Maybe you think your student-run publication is too small for a publication printing specialist.  Forget that notion. A partner with decades of experience in the special-interest publication world can deliver advantages your local printer can’t. When your printer knows the ins and outs of the publication business, it takes a load off you. Think about what you could do by spending fewer hours getting from digital file creation to final print production. Did we mention sleep?

Is their customer service structured for you?

A great printing partner is set up for ease of doing business—as in easy for you. Look for a layered team structure that provides leadership and plenty of bench strength. You want multiple people who are familiar with your publication so that you don’t miss a beat when your main contact is away.

Do they offer multiple print platforms?

When you’re putting together a student magazine, your focus should be on content and design – not whether your printing partner has the right equipment for the job. The ability to print on multiple digital and offset platforms can reduce your costs and provide the flexibility to easily scale quantities up or down. And, if you want to ensure consistent and reliable quality from device to device, ask if your printer has a G7® Master Qualification from IDEAlliance and Master Printers of America.

Do they provide a multitude of paper choices?

This is where publication specialization and economies of scale play in your favor. A skilled paper management team has your back. They’ll help you identify and secure paper stocks that meet your budget and publication goals. It’s also helpful if they have an extensive in-house paper selection, which can provide greater value on thin budgets. The right printer can provide environmentally friendly paper options that fit your budget.

Do they offer education and training that’s just a phone call away?

Publication printing now involves collaborative workflows between you and your printer—especially in the preparatory stage. But you’re likely not an expert in digital file preparation. Yet messing one up can slow production and increase costs. Professional, customer-friendly help should be readily available to you and your staff. Ask how your printer invests in knowledge sharing. The answer can mean the difference between frustration and success.

Do they use sustainable production practices?

Sustainability is likely a large consideration in your operations. It should also be in your printers. And we don’t mean just slapping an environmental logo on your publication and calling it a day. Responsible printers know an eco-friendly footprint begins with file creation and runs through distribution. Sustainable practices involve everything from their choices of equipment and consumables to the lighting in their facilities. Check out your printer’s environmental policies to ensure that they measure, manage, report and continually improve their environmental impact.

Can they help you reach your audiences where they are?

The most successful student-run publishers are adept at using data and multichannel strategies to reach audiences where they are. Print may form the core of your distribution strategy, but you may also incorporate digital distribution to expand your reach or address readers’ preferences. A great publication printer will not only offer the most efficient mail distribution services but also provide digital publishing apps, website solutions and other content delivery options to maximize your reader connections.

Can they provide room for you to dream and grow?

Maybe you’re just getting started or maybe you’re heading a student-run publication with decades of history. Either way, you aspire to reach new heights. The right publication printer will dream and grow with you. Help you stop outside the box. They should offer a wide range of reader engagement tools like inkjet imaging and variable data digital printing. And if you include advertising, then bindery options like gatefolds, belly wraps, tip-ons, inserts, uniquely shaped labels or poly bagging can invite readership and encourage deeper advertising engagement.

Don’t Procrastinate. Partner With �������Ƶ.

We live and breathe special-interest publications. And, we have a special enthusiasm for student-run publications. You’re the future of publishing, and your commitment inspires us to expand our capabilities.

That’s not just idle talk. We constantly invest in the equipment, services and solutions to meet the demands of student-run publications.

You’ll also love our easy-to-do-business-with approach. We start by providing you with a friendly, experienced customer service representative who’s part of a team steeped in know-how. And you can rest easy knowing that your �������Ƶ team is hard at work getting your publication produced at the highest quality, on time and within budget.

Getting in touch is simple. Just submit your information and a friendly �������Ƶ associate will be in touch within 24 hours.

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1. Campus Updates

Provide updates on campus developments, new programs and recent events to keep alumni connected to their alma mater. Alumni readers will likely be very interested to know what’s happening on their old stomping grounds, and updates about new construction projects and developments may even convince them to schedule a campus visit.

News about construction projects, music and theatre performances and homecoming activities are all examples of content to include in this section.

2. Career Advice

Offer tips and insights from alumni experts on career advancement, job search strategies and professional development. While this type of content could be relevant and helpful to any alum, it will likely attract young alumni in particular, who are looking to gain footing in their burgeoning careers.

Not only is career-related content interesting and popular, it will help foster a positive perception of the university as an institution that supports its alumni throughout all stages of their careers.

3. Faculty Features

Highlight the work and achievements of current and retired faculty members, showcasing their impact on students and the university. Alumni will be pleased to learn about new faculty joining the staff at their alma mater, and wistful to hear of their favorite professor’s retirement. Some examples of stories to include in this section are a faculty promotion or tenure, an anniversary milestone or a professor developing a brand new course.

Including faculty features also allows you to use your alumni magazine to showcase the knowledge and experience of your university’s talented teaching staff.

4. Historical Features

Explore the history of the university, highlighting milestones, traditions and notable alumni from different eras. Alumni will be interested to learn how their alma mater was founded and grew over the years, especially if you feature specific buildings or areas of campus that may be important to them.

Content that explores the history of your university, especially if combined with old photographs from the eras being described, is a powerful way to capture your alumni readers’ attention and make them feel personally connected with the university. If your magazine has been in publication for a long time, you may even have an archive of past issues that you can include images from, including a simple snapshot of the item itself.

5. Travel and Culture

Share travel stories and cultural insights from alumni around the world, highlighting their experiences and discoveries. This type of content is a great way to allow alumni to contribute to your publication with their stories and personal recommendations. Readers love personal stories like this, and it may even convince more alumni to become frequent travelers.

In addition to travel stories, you can fill this section with food and sightseeing recommendations, helpful travel tips and even sample itineraries.

6. Technology and Innovation

Your alumni will want to know how the university is working to keep up with the times. Explore how the university is leveraging new technological developments in its methods, and how it’s affecting the way students learn. If faculty members at the university have made any breakthroughs or advancements in their respective fields, this is a great section to highlight it.

Highlighting the advancements developed or leveraged by the university will inspire confidence in alumni, who will view their alma mater as modern and cutting-edge.

7. Alumni Spotlights

In-depth writeups that feature notable alumni are a good way to make alumni feel valued and connected while also creating interesting content for your magazine, as long as there’s a good story to tell. You could feature alumni who have found great success in their careers, gone through a life-changing experience or contributed something to better their community, for example.

Spotlighting alumni is a good way to encourage readership from alumni hoping to see how their former classmates are doing. In a recent interview with , Rebekah Tilley, Director of Strategic Communications at the University of Iowa’s Tippey College of Business, notes that this type of content is a big draw for young readers.

“One of the things that surprised me particularly was that our young alumni told me over and over again: ‘Oh, we love getting this! We get so few things in print anymore that this is really special to us, and we hang on to it, and it’s on our coffee table, and we flip immediately to alumni notes to see if our friends are there and see if their photos are in print, because they live in a digital world,’” said Rebekah.

Print Your Alumni Magazine With �������Ƶ

No matter how you choose to lay out your alumni magazine, make sure you’re working with a quality printer. In addition to interesting, well-crafted content, you’ll need to distribute a magazine that looks and feels great. As the third-largest magazine printer in the United States and Canada, we know how to take your publication from design to print, and then get it into the hands of your alumni.

To learn more about the benefits of printing with an award-winning, family-owned company, contact �������Ƶ today!

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