This site has served us well, but it's time to make a change.
jimbcreative (6 pencils) | Mon, 2006-08-14 18:32
This is what we have done internally: www.shortprinter.com. But now we need some help. We have been struggling with adding functionality without getting overly complicated. With nearly every job being custom, our online estimator http://www.shortprinter.com/estimateorder.htm is quickly being outgrown. Our services are continually expanding and the back office scripting is getting a bit overwelming for a group of designer/printer guys.
After seeing the quality of work posted and professionalism shown in the critiques, we are excited see what you think of this so far and welcome your suggestions.
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take a look at psprint....
http://psprint.com/printing_products/index.asp
Click on any of the products and notice the right hand side.
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To most, printing isn't a science, but it really is. I think you need to show your product samples, give the ability for consumers to get paper samples, define your printing terms for the user, and streamline the order process.
The calculator is weak, for it relies on the user to know exactly what they are doing, and even then, it is very confusing and anti-efficient. You cannot leave certain decisions up to the user, you have to qualify them to put them into a position where the percentage error is lowest. Best of luck! =)
Without knowing specifically the functionality you're struggling to integrate into the site it will be difficult to provide a beneficial critique. [But, I'll give it a shot]
The site has a nice, friendly look and feel [love the illustrations] and isn't loaded down with a ton of unnecessary content. But, for some reason I get a feeling the company 'lacks beef on the bones'.
The site is extremely easy to understand and navigate. However, it doesn't do the best job explaining the benefits of digital printing and why the visitor should pick you over the others. [Maybe sell the message 'Amazing short-run quality printing at great prices"] Personally, I'd also like to see more background information about the company, digital printing and product options.
See http://www.americasprinter.com/ [price guide] for a good example of how to organize and display your product line. Also, drill in and notice the way they provide completed price quotes for 'standard' stocks, sizes and quantities. I'd highly recommend ditching the online calculator! I doubt you get very many who actually go through the trouble of using this in it's current form. [Requires WAY too much screwing around and knowledge of printing]
If you beef up the skinny on the company and products you'd have a much more useful site.
Thanks for the input. We have been busy here collecting the "beef" as you say... samples, history, skillsets and core product offerings. And yes, when we look at first mentioned site we turn green with envy.
We have what we want outlined, but our biggest obstacle has been finding someone to help us exicute the back office scripting required. Locally we can't find a qualified source. Does anyone know someone at that level?
I'll drop you an email and we can discuss the project in more detail.