By Chloe Mahendra-Fuji, Print Diva
Hi! I’m Chloe, and love to watch how people communicate in print. There are so many things you can do with print that it’s sometimes hard to realize that there are still new ideas being realized with technology that involves putting marks on paper. Much of my work involves digital printing, so you might think it’s boring. But, recently I have seen some things that are just amazing communication pieces that I want to share.
Do you ever do newsletters or magazines? Many of my clients create them as information pieces, loyalty communications or for their big events. I’ve seen all types, from those produced on the office photocopier to the slick productions that rival Vogue. Recently, in different parts of the world, I’ve seen an interesting set of alternatives! What about using a digitally printed newspaper for your next event?
Newspaper, you ask? On ugly newsprint? Actually, no! I’ve seen some examples in Europe at shows that are really interesting. They are sometimes on whiter newsprint, sometimes on better quality paper, but the format is usually tabloid size. The content is sometimes written in a true “news style” and at other times it takes a breezier approach. There is usually an agency involved for copywriting, but the best examples are the ones that use some data and create a relevant communication organ that goes beyond what you can do with static, offset printing.
The pieces I have seen are using a variety of digital printing technologies. Some use toner-based printing technologies, but more often they are using high-speed inkjet machines. The cost is appropriate, the technology works well with newsprint, and it turns out that people like newspapers! Even though daily newspapers around the world are under pressure, the format of a newspaper is portable, easy to read and provides options for adding advertising, adding educational and promotional content, and even including QR Codes or Augmented Reality links to expand the communication opportunities.
Magazines, short run and customized, are an equally attractive option that is popping up in many different places around the world. From the Sundance Film Festival catalog to targeted association magazines, a lot of companies are catching on to the idea. The idea of corporate magazines or store magazines is not new; what is new and innovative is the idea of using a magazine format combined with segmentation and targeting to create a better experience for the ones who use it. I was out online and found a great reference from the agency called Head Office.
Take a look at this video to see a cool way to use a magazine – I think you’ll get some ideas! Who knew that high-speed inkjet could change brand communication?
I’m still trolling the world looking for cool stuff for my clients. I know there is more out there because I am a Print Diva! I’ll share more next month!
Chloe Mahendra-Fuji practices the fine arts of design critique, content creation and editing, and communication consulting. She has decades of experience working in online content delivery, print delivery, and content development. Chloe is also a gossip maven. Send your rumors and back channel notes to ChloePrintDiva@gmail.com. She says, “Have you guessed? CMF is my AKA! You’re safe with me!”
Connect with Chloe on Twitter: @ChloePrintDiva
