Wednesday 8 September 2010

This blog is not just about the uncertain future of books it's about the future of printed media in general and is designed to encourage people to hopefully add their views and predictions about the future of print.

Present generations are a well aware of the tangible benefits of print. They can feel it, see it in three dimensions and even smell it with the use of sniff and scratch. There is nothing better than sitting on a beach with your favourite printed book. In a world of free advertising and blogs nothing demonstrates that a business is 'real' to their potential clients better than printed marketing collateral such as a brochure a voucher book or an engaging, interesting folded piece. Printed marketing material is still the most cost effective way to promote a business.

But how will future generations feel about print on paper? will they have the same emotional attachment to the printed book as present generations or will they get more comfort from an iPhone or an e-book reader? will the static text of a book seem old fashioned and boring? surely there will always be a need for children's books and people will continue to need business cards, won't they? What are the enviromental implications of print and how can print become more sustainable?

For us at Direct Print International www.dpilimited.com this is more than just an interesting debate, our future as a manufacturer of children's books, books and printed marketing material depends on it.

So whether you love print or hate it, if you have an opinion about the future of print please leave your comments below