What are the common challenges and pitfalls of a print audit?

2 Inadequate data collection

A print audit relies on accurate and reliable data to provide insights into your print environment. However, collecting data can be challenging, especially if you have a large or complex network of devices, users, and locations. You may need to use different tools and methods, such as manual counting, software monitoring, user surveys, or device reports, to gather information on your print volumes, costs, usage patterns, and issues. You also need to ensure that your data collection is consistent, comprehensive, and secure, and that you validate and verify your data before analyzing it.

3 Poor data analysis

Once you have collected your data, you need to analyze it to identify your current state, gaps, and opportunities. However, data analysis can be daunting, especially if you have a lot of data or lack the skills or tools to process it. You may struggle to find meaningful patterns, trends, or correlations, or to compare your data with benchmarks or best practices. You may also overlook or misinterpret some important factors, such as user needs, preferences, or behaviors, or external influences, such as regulations or market conditions.

4 Insufficient communication and engagement

A print audit is not a one-time event or a one-person job. It involves multiple stakeholders, such as management, IT, finance, procurement, and end-users, who have different roles, responsibilities, and expectations. Therefore, communication and engagement are essential for a successful print audit. You need to communicate the purpose, scope, and benefits of the print audit to all stakeholders, and solicit their feedback and input throughout the process. You also need to engage them in the implementation and evaluation of the print audit recommendations, and ensure that they are aware of and satisfied with the outcomes.

5 Lack of follow-up and improvement

A print audit is not an end in itself, but a means to an end. The ultimate goal of a print audit is to improve your print environment and achieve your objectives. However, many print audits fail to deliver on their promise because they lack follow-up and improvement. You need to monitor and measure the results of your print audit actions, and compare them with your baseline and targets. You also need to review and update your print audit findings and recommendations regularly, and adjust your strategies and tactics as needed. A print audit is not a one-off project, but a continuous cycle of improvement.