Up until now, printing has always been thought of as creating the same copy on multiple pages. Some people have been able to use their merge function & include different names and addresses, but the basis of the file has been the same.
This isn’t the case anymore. With on-demand digital printing and variable data software, printers are able to create a unique document which is limited only by your imagination.
What Is Variable Data Printing?
Variable Data Printing (VDP) is a process where digital printing is able to produce projects that are similar but not identical all on the same page. Each copy of the project can be targeted to each individual. The images, text, and graphics can be changed from each item to the next in order to create material that is geared to your individual customer.
Why Should You Use VDP?
Anymore, people don’t want to receive information that is geared to everyone else. Time is precise and unless you find a way to get their attention, you are wasting money sending out the same information to everyone in your database. You want to stand out to your customers among the many pieces of mail they receive every day.
Customers want to feel special when they received items from you and using VDP is the perfect way to do it. By giving them offers that are based on their personal preferences, you will see more returns in the end.
What Ways Can VDP Be Used?
VDP can be used on just about any printing project. From something as simple as printing individual names and addresses on letters to changing the graphics and text depending on gender, area they live, and purchase history on a brochure.
Insurance companies use VDP in printing their policy benefits. Retailers use VDP when printing coupons. Credit card companies use VDP to create invoices that include specific offers based on that person’s spending habits. There are unlimited possibilities when it comes to using variable data printing.
Would you like to create a postcard for your customers that would give them offers on the items which they have previously purchased? VDP can do that and include the image of the item, all without having to create different cards for each person.
How about tickets or coupons which would have a specific code according to the person who gets it? Yep, VDP can do that too.
What Are the Benefits for You in Using VDP?
Besides the fact that it has been shown that VDP helps to increase open rates and allows you to connect with your customers on a more personal level, here are a few other benefits:
- Faster turnaround time then creating an individual card for each person.
- Allows for smaller quantities because you only need to print for those on your list.
- Addresses printed directly onto pieces making them ready to be mailed.
A variable data project is really only limited to your imagination. What way can you imagine using this to get noticed by your customers?