HP launches print-to-order book manufacturing services
HP has introduced HP Piazza, a set of independent and interlocking cloud-based services that it says will enable publishers to make book manufacturing and distribution more time- and cost-efficient.
Publishers can build a virtual warehouse for the management, automation, distribution, print, and direct fulfilment of book orders, while holding zero inventory.
Bridging the worlds of book publishing and digital book printing, the Piazza platform focuses on the needs of publishers in a world where short-run digital production is an everyday reality.
“Pearson is undergoing a digital transformation to become a simpler, more efficient business and our UK book supply chain is a key part of this,” said Stephen Jones, Pearson Director of Global Direct Procurement.
“We are moving from a ‘print to warehouse’ to a ‘print to order, direct to consumer’ model. Partnering with our print providers, HP Piazza will support us in managing our print workflow and optimizing our book supply chain to help reduce costs and better serve our customers.”
With Piazza, publishers can control, monetize, and secure their valuable content, while growing their revenues. Designed to connect seamlessly via PrintOS SiteFlow, this end to end workflow enables accurate, transparent SLA management, quick time to market and reduced waste.
“In recent years, while we have seen a resurgence of the love people have for physical books, we are very aware of the continued financial pressure for publishers regarding inventory and shipping costs,” said Enrique Lores, President of HP Printing & Imaging.
“With Piazza, publishers and printers can support the renewed interest in print and turn the page to a smarter future, moving from a print-to-sell model to a sold-to-print one.”