Back to Campus, Back to Business – Why Now Is the Time for Technology Upgrades

As the fall semester kicks off, in-plant print operations shift into high gear. From course packets and student handbooks to athletic programs and campus marketing campaigns, the demand for high-quality, fast-turnaround printing skyrockets. For many colleges and universities, this is the busiest time of year — and the perfect time to ask: Is your in-plant equipped to meet the challenge?

The Fall Semester Print Surge

The back-to-campus season isn’t just about new classes. It’s about new opportunities for in-plants to demonstrate their value across the entire institution. Common requests include: 

• Course Materials: Syllabi, course packets, and study guides must be printed in bulk and delivered before classes begin.
• Student Services Collateral: Orientation handouts, campus maps, ID cards, and student resource guides.
• Athletics & Events: Game-day programs, banners, posters, and branded signage for campus pride.
• Marketing & Advancement: Recruitment brochures, alum communications, fundraising mailers, and event invitations.

The volume and variety are enormous—and delays or downtime can directly impact student and faculty satisfaction. 

Why Technology Upgrades Matter Now

Relying on outdated print equipment or manual workflows can put your in-plant at risk during this critical season. Here’s why strategic upgrades are worth considering:

• Faster Turnaround Times: Modern production devices handle higher volumes with reduced downtime, ensuring projects stay on schedule.
• Expanded Capabilities: New inkjet and wide-format solutions enable the offering of services such as variable data printing, outdoor signage, or specialty substrates that previously required outsourcing.
• Improved Cost Efficiency: Newer technology often reduces click charges, paper waste, and energy use — helping in-plants stretch their budgets further.
• Enhancing User Experience with Web-to-Print Portals: Implementing a self-service portal enables faculty, staff, and students to submit jobs online, check their status, and reorder with ease.

Web-to-Print: A Must-Have for Campus In-Plants

One of the most impactful add-ons for in-plant operations is a web-to-print portal. By offering a simple, intuitive ordering system: 

• Faculty can upload course materials 24/7. 
• Student groups can order posters, flyers, and apparel without having to wait in line. 
• Administrators can track orders and manage budgets in real-time.
  

This reduces bottlenecks, increases satisfaction, and positions the in-plant as an indispensable service hub on campus. 

The Bottom Line

Back-to-campus season is a moment of truth for in-plants. Institutions that invest in upgraded equipment and modern software tools aren’t just keeping up with demand—they’re unlocking new ways to serve their campus communities and reinforce the value of their in-plant. 

At SumnerOne, we partner with higher education institutions to assess their current workflows, recommend the right technology, and provide the necessary support to ensure smooth operations—this semester and beyond. 

Is your in-plant ready for the semester surge? Let’s talk about how SumnerOne can help.