In the world of politics where speeches echo loudly and people argue non-stop on social media, there’s one tool for communicating with the masses that has remained relevant through the years: printing. Whether it’s pamphlets sparking activism or posters getting folks fired up, printing has always played a key role in shaping what people think and getting them to take action. Even in today’s digital age, where information flows endlessly, the importance of political printing remains high, having become part of the very fabric of political discourse.
But political printing isn’t just about ink on paper; it’s a conduit for ideas, a force for change. At its core, it offers a tangible way to share information with the masses that they can touch and feel. There is a certain reaction you get from opening a mailbox and looking at a printed postcard that you just can’t get from a digital message or online ad.
Printed materials serve as tangible reminders of political agendas and messages. In a time dominated by digital communication, the physicality of printed materials can evoke an authenticity and urgency that digital platforms sometimes lack.
Research found that direct mail remains the most credible political advertising channel for 63% of surveyed voters — with a majority (56%) also continuing to believe direct mail includes more facts than other channels.1
Navigating the world of political printing can seem daunting, with its complexities and ever-changing postage regulations, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the guidance from a trusted printing partner, you can smoothly transition from planning to execution to election day.
Prioritize Quality and Timing over Cost
While cheap may seem appealing, remember the age-old adage, “You get what you pay for.” Prioritize quality and timing over cost when selecting a printer. You can compromise paper stocks, but when it comes to production times and delivery windows for political messages, timing is everything. Choosing a printer with the right equipment and capacity can make the difference. For example, MOSAIC’s digital web-inkjet printing and automated finishing lines can produce 60,000-90,000 pieces of direct mail per hour; getting your candidate’s message to market faster. Timing can be the difference between winning and losing, and the cheapest price doesn’t help if untimely delivery of your messages doesn’t move the needle.
Location Matters
Choosing a union printer for your political direct mail can offer numerous benefits, including showing support for workers’ rights, high-quality printing services, reliability and timeliness, positive community impact, environmental considerations, and the opportunity to display the union label. These factors can enhance the effectiveness of your campaign messaging and help you connect with voters who share your values and priorities. Not only is MOSAIC a proud, union printer, but being located just minutes from Washington, D.C., we also have close relationships with many unions and their affiliated partners. This gives us valuable insights.
Go with Who You Know
Price is one thing, experience is another. With something as important as political messaging in a critical campaign, partnering with a printer you know and trust offers numerous benefits. Most likely printing with your trusted print partner means consistent quality, clear and streamlined communications, and reliability in meeting deadlines. With an understanding of your specific needs and preferences, trusted printers can tailor their services effectively, providing flexibility and adaptability to accommodate special requests or changes.
Beyond printing, they may offer value-added services and expertise, enhancing the overall success of your project. Moreover, an established rapport gives you peace of mind, allowing you to delegate printing tasks confidently and focus on other aspects of your campaign or business. You know that your printing needs are in capable hands. If you are missing that “peace of mind,” with your current printer, don’t hesitate to reach out to MOSAIC.
In Conclusion
Embarking on the journey of political printing doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavor. By following these tips and seeking professional guidance, you can navigate this landscape with confidence and achieve impactful results for your campaign. Also, if feasible, enlist the services of a campaign consultant well-versed in political printing. Their expertise can streamline the process, maximize your resources, and ensure a high-quality product, freeing you to focus on other critical aspects of your campaign.
For further insights into political printing, explore our blog on Best Practices for Political Direct Mail, contact us at info@mosaic.buzz, or reach out to your MOSAIC Account Manager for more information.
1. All 2022 Midterm Election data sourced from post-election survey and focus groups conducted on behalf of the Postal Service™ by Summit Research and KRC Research from November 2022 through January 2023.