Variable Data Printing vs Traditional Printing | Key Differences and Benefits

Blog summary: Is Variable Data Printing more efficient than the traditional printing? If yes, how? And are they even comparable? These are the questions print service providers are having before they start the Variable Data Printing services. So, this blog is all about understanding VDP and comparing it with the conventional printing methods. Keep reading for clarity.

In the evolving world of print technology, understanding the difference between Variable Data Printing (VDP) vs Traditional Printing is crucial for businesses looking to optimize their printing strategies.

The fact is, personalized products can increase repurchase rates by up to 76%. And most probably that’s the reason why print service providers are getting more orders for personalized products in bulk. Now, getting more orders is always good, but managing personalization with the traditional methods can be a hectic task for printers and that’s where a modern variable data printing software comes into the picture.

On the other hand, Traditional Printing remains a reliable choice for high-volume, uniform prints. So, you need to know your strategy to fulfill both orders efficiently. And this blog is all about exploring the key differences and advantages of both methods to help you choose the best approach for your needs.

So, keep reading on.

What Is Variable Data Printing (VDP)?

Variable Data Printing (VDP) is a method of printing bulk orders in which every unit has a minutely different personalized element, and the data that is varying is called the variable data. VDP enables you to print products with slight variations on the same printing line. The most efficient way to do this is with an advanced variable data printing software that has digital file as the database for printing variations.

The most common applications of VDP are customized advertisement mails. The only personalized variation is the receiver's name. In this case the name is the variable data. Other than the name, there are many types of variable data that are commonly used for VDP orders.

Curious about them? Let’s know more types of variations you can have with VDP.

What Are the Different Variable Data Options?

Depending upon the objective of the print-job, there are several types of data variations possible using a smart VDP software. Let’s list out a few of them for you to have a better idea of VDP.

• Variation in Texts

The text variable data include names, addresses, greetings, serial numbers, and pronounces are commonly used to print letters, advertisement, team jerseys, application forms, and event invitations.

• Variation in Images

The variation in images like a photograph, logo, and product images are used to print identification cards, postcards, invitations, personalized product catalogs, and brochures.

• Scannable Codes

Scannable codes like QR codes and bar codes are commonly used to print tickets, coupons, and packaging labels.

Now that you have understood what VDP is, let’s define the traditional printing to be on the same page.

What Is Traditional Printing?

Traditional/conventional printing is the method of printing identical products in bulk. The traditional printing method does not allow personalization of every product. Once the product is designed you cannot personalize it for every piece.

These are the conventional printing method used to print products.

• Brand Merchandizes
• Generic Advertising Letters
• Information Brochures
• Packaging Boxes

Now, you’ll know exactly what it means when someone mentions VDP or traditional printing. But, to know how your strategies should differ, you need to compare both and know the differences in detail.

Key Differences Between Variable Data Printing and Traditional Printing

Variable Data Printing process and the traditional printing process are both different in several aspects. So, let’s discuss a few of them to understand how both the methods are distinct.

Overall, the major difference between VDP vs traditional printing is that variable printing has the room for customization of every piece without disturbing the printing process and is suitable for a smaller order in comparison to the traditional printing method.

Advantages of Variable Data Printing

Most of the businesses have tried variable data printing already, or they are thinking about it due to the numerous advantages that VDP has.

So, let’s list them out and know how the variable data printing process can benefit your printing business.

It Shortens the Turnaround Time for Personalized Prints

One might think that customizing every piece in the print order must be time consuming, which is true. Stopping the printing process to change the data every time is inefficient. Thus, the VDP helps to make the entire process quicker by printing personalized as per the digital data file without hindering the printing process.

It Makes Personalized Printing in Bulk Efficient

With the VDP software, you can offer personalized printed products in bulk efficiently. You do not have to design the products singularly, moreover you do not have to print those products as separate orders.

It Brings Versatility in Your Printed Product Offerings

As there are multiple variable data types that can be applied to print a variety of customized printed products. This helps you in winning the orders for projects like mail, invitation cards, and employee business cards. This eventually helps you in boosting your revenue.

Variable Data Printing allows to add unique identifiers like QR codes and barcodes on each item, enabling precise tracking throughout the supply chain. This feature enhances inventory management, streamlines logistics, and provides valuable data for analyzing product performance and customer interactions. This overall helps variable data printing companies to make data-driven decisions.

Advantages of Traditional Printing

Traditional printing methods offer several advantages that make them a staple in the industry, especially for large-scale projects.

Consistent Quality

Traditional print excels in producing high-quality, consistent results across large print runs with the advanced commercial printing solution. Once set up, the process maintains uniformity in color and detail, ensuring that every piece meets the same high standard.

Reliable Turnaround Time

With fewer variables and a print shop order management software setup, traditional print provides faster turnaround times for large orders. The process is straightforward, reducing the likelihood of delays or complications.

Robust Technology

Traditional printing techniques, such as offset and flexographic, are well-established and reliable. The web to print software have evolved to handle various print jobs effectively, offering versatility for different print needs without sacrificing quality.

Traditional printing remains a powerful choice for high-volume, uniform jobs, combining efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.

Has this made you confused between Variable Data Printing VS Traditional Printing methods? In that case, let’s give you a recommendation on which one you should pick.

How Printers Can Leverage Variable Data Printing

Select printing methods based on your product line. For large, uniform orders, traditional printing is cost-effective and efficient. If customization is crucial, such as personalized items, variable data printing (VDP) offers flexibility, though it may be pricier for high volumes. Consider factors like volume, customization needs, cost, and turnaround times to determine the best approach for your business.

ConclusionIn this blog, we defined Variable Data Printing and the traditional printing methods. We also compared Variable Data Printing VS Traditional Printing methods to help you pick the one that suits your business the most.However, whether you need the personalization capabilities of variable printing or the efficiency of traditional printing for large runs, OnPrintShop provides an ideal web-to-print solution. This software seamlessly integrates with both models, ensuring you get the best of both worlds. Schedule a demo today and explore how OnPrintShop can enhance your printing business.