5. Print envelopes separately and match them with the contents as you insert. The best choice for your standard envelope depends on the jobs you run. Examine the documents to be mailed to see where the mailing addresses and return addresses are positioned on the page. Document re-engineering software can re-position data in print-image files. You can move addresses so they align with envelope windows, but you wouldn’t want to attempt a fullblown document re-design with such tools. If you decide on a closed-face envelope, moving the address blocks is not an issue. The positions of the addresses on the documents won’t matter. An analysis of the documents is critical. Decide which applications you can group in a single print run and which you cannot. You may direct the jobs that must remain separate to slower print devices designed for shorter runs and continue to insert them as individual jobs.

When it comes to the inserting operation, combining jobs to make new presses more efficient requires thought, analysis, planning, and adjustments. Tracking and Integrity Another critical factor to consider is the data file that drives your intelligent inserting equipment. You may call this an MRDF or something similar. Information in this file will contain data useful for maintaining integrity during the inserting operation. The file will also control the inkjet heads if installed on the inserters and will play a part in tracking and reprints. When you combine jobs for printing efficiency, the job-based balancing you formerly used for quality control won’t apply. Keeping track of every page as it progresses through your shop is a bit more complicated. You may require help from IT or vendor professional services to get it set up and working. Inkjet printing has plenty of advantages, but short runs can erode expected productivity improvements. When it comes to the inserting operation, combining jobs to make new presses more efficient requires thought, analysis, planning, and adjustments.  Mike Porter at Print/Mail Consultants helps his clients meet the challenges they encounter in document operations and creates informational content for vendors and service providers in the document industry. Follow @PMCmike on Twitter, send a connection request on LinkedIn, or contact Mike directly at mporter@printmailconsultants.com. MailingSystemsTechnology.com | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2021

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