I just got off the phone with a client and I just had to share this story about the order i didn't get. So i had given an estimate for 500 brochures 11" x 17" with bleeds that folds to 8.5" x 11" from their supplied and industry supported file for a South American trade show they were participating in for the first time. It was not last minute mind you. When they asked for the estimate it was three months out. Sounds simple enough, right? A few months go by and no order. But why? I was told I have the order. When I called today to see how things were progressing I was told they decided to have it printed in California because the price was cheaper. I don't know who said it first but I love the phrase "cheaper is not the best value".  After adding in the shipping an unfortunate thing happened. They paid more than what I would have charged and the quality was not what they expected. Not only did they pay more and wait longer there was no time to reprint it and reach them in time so they had no choice but to go with what they got. What could the California printer do about it? The conversation went something like this on the phone. "Sorry, we printed what you gave us". "You will have to pay again for the printing and shipping to have it reprinted and we can not guarantee delivery in time".

Now what if they called me and said they found it for less? I think its a good thing to ask to match or beat a documented price. If I can I will within reason. Especially to grow a relationship. That's the point of this story. The best value is not because its a cheaper price but rather communicating and educating so clients can make a sound business decision. Like any relationship when you build trust and good will the relationship flourishes. What do you think? I really would like to get my readers feedback. What is important to you? There are printers out there cutting prices to the bone and going out of business which in the long run really hurts the industry and can leave you the client file less. Just today I got a call from a client who said his printer went AWOL. Bad for them, good for me. 

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Last Updated ( Monday, 09 November 2009 23:16 )