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Walk Your Workflow Question

Understanding the people, processes and technologies currently used in your digital printing operation is essential.

Start by selecting a few of the print applications you produce the most, whether those are direct mail, brochures, business cards or wide-format signage.

Now walk the workflow from the point where the customer makes the request to the point where the product is finished and ready for delivery.

Pay extra attention to the interaction and tasks required between the customer’s initial request until it becomes a job ticket.

This onboarding is frequently loaded with physical touchpoints and process loops. There is often a discrepancy between the actual processes and tasks performed versus what supervisors and management think is happening.

It is crucial to observe and document the workflow and avoid influencing the standard behavior and processes performed. Be sure to note workflow loops, private spreadsheets and the widespread use of email, chat or sticky notes outside workflow tools.

At each point, ask: what, why, when, how, where, who and additionally, how much. These questions work well to understand and evaluate any process.

What did you find after walking the workflow for your most commonly printed products? Focus on the answers found to the “How Much” question. Any process incurring outsized time or costs should be improved, eliminated or automated. Calculating