“Should we outsource our wide format printing…
or bring it in-house?”
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But if you’re printing wide format graphics regularly, it might be time to explore whether investing in your own equipment makes financial sense.
Let’s break it down.
The Case for Outsourcing
Outsourcing wide format printing works well if:
- You only print occasionally
- Your jobs are highly specialized or require unique materials
- You don’t have the space or staff to manage the process
If you’re producing fewer than 10 large-format jobs a month, outsourcing is probably still the more cost-effective option.
When In-House Printing Pays Off
The tipping point often comes down to volume, flexibility, and turnaround time. If you’re constantly printing signage, blueprints, marketing materials, or event graphics, bringing wide format in-house can save you time and money in the long run.
Here’s what you gain:
- Faster Turnaround – No more waiting on vendor timelines
- Creative Control – Make real-time tweaks to design and output
- Cost Savings – Save on markup, delivery, and rush fees
- Privacy – Maintain control over sensitive or proprietary content
- Sustainability – Reduce waste and print exactly what you need, when you need it
The ROI Equation
It’s important to look beyond the upfront cost of the printer. A true ROI evaluation includes:
- Monthly print volume
- Media types and sizes
- Finishing needs
- Ink and supply costs
- Equipment lifecycle
- Labor and maintenance
We often work with clients to map out total cost of ownership over 3–5 years compared to their average outsourcing spend. Many are surprised how quickly the investment pays for itself.
It Starts with Strategy
At Higher Information Group, we never recommend a one-size-fits-all solution. We start by understanding your workflow, print environment, team capacity, and goals. Only then do we recommend a wide format system that aligns with your needs – and support you with installation, training, and service.
Wondering If It’s Time to Bring Wide Format In-House?
If you’re unsure whether your organization would benefit from in-house wide format printing, let’s talk. We’ll help you evaluate your current setup, crunch the numbers, and explore a solution that works for your budget and your future.
