What's Next for the In-plant?

In-plant values:

• Quantity of impressions reproduced.
• Quantity of funds saved.
• Enabling efficient company communications.
• Allowing the organization to accomplish its mission.

Commercial printer values:

• How many sheets on the floor?
• How much have they cost, and what is our margin?
• Are our customers happy?
• Are we solvent, are we stable/safe and can we grow?

Once you've done this, then think through the differences in the way you both operate—and the realities. For example, how will you sell against a commercial outfit? Do you have any sales people? Can you extend your shifts, work weekends and add overtime when needed at a moment's notice? How much flexibility do you have on pricing jobs? How quickly can you turn estimates around? What happens when you get a big internal job? How much do you want this business? Do you think commercial printers are going to stand by and let you take it? How tough do you think it currently is for privately owned businesses? What makes you think you can do it too?