It’s a common question: does it make sense to print your books offset or use print on demand (POD)? Both printing processes offer unique advantages that can make the decision difficult. Let’s take a look some of the factors to consider:

Print Quantity:

Size of the print run is the probably your most important consideration. Conventional offset printing is best suited for producing large print runs of 500 books or more. With relatively long lead-times and high press set up and make-ready costs, larger press runs are generally needed to make conventional offset printing cost-effective.

Smaller press runs of 100 or less are becoming increasingly common as a way to eliminate unused inventory and costly storage. If your quantity ranges between 300-500 books, your best bet is to quote both ways: offset and digital.

Short press runs do have advantages when it comes to testing the waters. Printing one or two…