On demand production offers tools with little or no investment

Filed in archive Entrepreneurship on June 11, 2006

From promotional materials to actual customized product, design on demand technology offers an ever increasing array of tools to bootstrappers. The trend offers a way to simplify design, minimize risk and even in some cases remove the hassle of turning around orders. In this sense, the process helps conserve two of the bootstrap entrepreneur's most vital resources: time and money.

In the case of free items like give-away promotional T-shirts and brochures, it's still hard to imagine how these services can compete with conventional printers. Base prices on products are higher, but in many cases creators pay nothing up front and all costs including shipping are paid by the customer at the time of sale. An added mark-up goes to the creator of the image or brand as clear profit.

For examples of companies specializing in everything from customized T-shirts to mugs on the Net, check out CafePress.com and Designs on Demand. Other items including books with full color covers are available through sites like Lulu.com, and many companies host an online store for designers.

Other services like PrintMojo.com offer comparable services using silk screen instead of print on demand for apparel and initial runs as low as 25 items with some up front and shipping costs. Print on demand publishers like Xlibris and iUniverse also offer book packages but also with greater initial expense.