Wide format printing isn’t just for architects and engineering firms anymore. Today, organizations across construction, education, healthcare, retail, marketing, manufacturing, and municipalities rely on large, high-quality prints to keep projects moving and teams aligned.
But as demand grows, so does the need for faster turnaround, better control, and predictable costs — and that often raises an important question:
Should you bring wide format printing in-house, or keep outsourcing it?
The right answer depends on your volume, workflows, deadlines, and the types of materials you produce. Here’s what to consider as you reevaluate your wide format strategy.
The Hidden Challenges of Outsourcing Wide Format
Outsourcing seems simple — until it slows down your work.
Common issues include:
• Long turnaround times for proofs, revisions, and final prints
• Rush fees or per-print markups that inflate budgets
• Color or quality inconsistencies between vendors
• Limited visibility into sensitive or confidential documents
• Version-control issues on construction drawings and technical plans
• Lost productivity from waiting, coordinating, or picking up prints
When deadlines are tight, even a small delay can derail an entire project. This is especially true in construction, engineering, marketing, manufacturing, and education environments — where wide format output is essential, not optional.
The Benefits of Bringing Wide Format Printing In-House
For many organizations, adding an in-house wide format printer delivers immediate improvements in cost, turnaround time, and workflow flexibility. (Explore KDI’s wide format solutions here.)
Faster Turnaround Times
Print drawings, signage, maps, proofs, and graphics immediately — no waiting hours or days for a vendor.
Lower Costs vs. Outsourcing
Eliminate markups, minimum quantities, and rush fees. Print exactly what you need, when you need it.
Greater Control and Security
Especially important for:
• Schools and universities
• Healthcare and HIPAA-sensitive materials
• Government and public safety
• Manufacturing designs
• Legal or engineering documentation
High-Quality, Professional Output
Modern wide format systems support:
• Technical drawings and blueprints
• Posters, maps, and announcements
• Event signage
• Banners
• POP displays
• Trade show graphics
• Marketing collateral
Cross-Department Versatility
One device supports many teams:
• Construction → drawings
• Marketing → posters and signage
• Schools → campus events
• Retail → promotional displays
• Municipalities → planning documents
Wide Format Technology Is Much Easier Today
Today’s devices are compact, efficient, intuitive, and cloud-friendly — far from the large, complex plotters of the past.
When It Makes More Sense to Outsource Wide Format Printing
In-house isn’t always the right fit — and that’s why KDI also offers outsourced wide format printing through our Business Printing Solutions team.
Outsourcing may be the smarter choice when:
• Your wide format volume is low or inconsistent
• You print occasionally (less than 10–15 jobs per month)
• You need specialty finishing like mounting, lamination, binding, or custom substrates
• You want predictable per-job pricing without equipment investment
• You handle highly variable or one-time projects
• You prefer professional-grade production without managing hardware
Outsourcing can be especially cost-effective for organizations needing variety — such as retail, marketing, events, and education — without committing to a device.
How to Decide: In-House vs. Outsourced Wide Format
Many businesses find clarity by answering these questions:
How often do we print wide format materials?
• Frequent printing tends to favor in-house cost savings
• Occasional printing aligns well with outsourcing
How quickly do we need finished output?
• Tight deadlines often require in-house capability
• Flexible timelines are well suited to outsourcing
Are the documents sensitive or confidential?
• If yes, in-house printing offers better control
Do we need specialty media or finishing?
• If yes, outsourcing may be the better option
Are project delays a recurring pain point?
• If yes, in-house printing eliminates turnaround bottlenecks
The Best Part? KDI Helps You Choose the Right Path
KDI is a partner that provides both in-house systems and outsourced wide format production — which means you get unbiased guidance based entirely on what’s best for your business.
We help you evaluate:
• Volume
• Workflow requirements
• Cost analysis
• Turnaround expectations
• Security needs
• Media and finishing requirements
• Long-term flexibility
We ensure your print environment supports your goals — not the other way around.
Ready to Determine the Right Wide Format Strategy?
Whether you’re considering a wide format device, outsourcing your projects, or exploring a hybrid approach, KDI can help you make an informed decision.
Request a quick, no-pressure office technology assessment. We’ll help you understand your options and choose the solution that works best for your team, your workflow, and your budget.