For state and local agencies, consultants, and contractors working with government departments, the need for precise, secure, and high-quality printing services is paramount. From contract plans and special provisions to essential documentation, the right printing partner is crucial. While the term “Local Printing Shops” might bring to mind storefront businesses, for organizations with specific requirements, the ideal solution often lies in specialized, dedicated printing and digitization services tailored to their unique needs.
Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) Printing and Digitization Services (PaDS) exemplifies this specialized approach. Though not a “shop” in the traditional sense, PaDS functions as an in-house expert, primarily focused on the critical task of printing and assembling contract plans and special provisions for scheduled construction projects. This focus allows them to develop deep expertise and quality control measures that are invaluable for government-related printing needs.
Comprehensive Printing and Digitization Services Offered
PaDS offers a wide range of services designed to meet the demanding needs of government and related sectors. Understanding these services can help organizations identify the right type of “local printing shop” – whether in-house or external – to partner with.
High-Capacity Scanning: In today’s digital age, document digitization is essential. PaDS provides:
- Color and Black & White Scanning: Versatile scanning options to handle diverse document types.
- Single and Double-Sided Scanning: Efficiency for all document formats.
- Small and Large Item Scanning: From sticky notes to documents up to 36 inches wide.
- Variable Resolutions & OCR: Meeting archival requirements and enabling text searchability.
- Secure Document Handling: From secure delivery acceptance to controlled digital access and temporary secure server storage.
High-Speed Black/White Copying: For large volume copying needs, PaDS is equipped with:
- Electronic Job Storage: “On-demand” printing for efficient reprints and updates.
- In-line Stapling, Saddle Stitching & Square Folding: Professional finishing options for documents and booklets.
Bindery Services: Finishing touches matter for professional documents. PaDS offers a complete suite of bindery services:
- Collation, Stapling, 3-Hole Drilling, Folding, Trimming: Standard document finishing.
- Lamination (Matte or Glossy), Foam Core Mounting, Shrink-Wrapping, Padding, Book Binding: Specialized finishing for presentations, displays, and reports.
Wide Format Printing and Scanning: For plans, posters, and large documents:
- Wide Format Black/White Copier: Digital scans and prints up to 36″ wide.
- Wide Format Color Scanner/Printer: Digital scans up to 36″ and prints up to 60″ wide on various paper types.
Cost-Effective and Reliable Printing Solutions
Understanding the cost structure and operational procedures of “local printing shops” is key. PaDS operates on a cost recovery system, ensuring competitive pricing. While they have a minimum charge of $4.50 per order to cover administrative costs, their high volume allows for very low per-copy prices. WSDOT orders are directly charged to work orders, while outside customers can establish accounts. It’s important to note that PaDS does not accept cash or credit cards, highlighting the specific operational framework often found in government or agency-related services.
Who Can Utilize These Specialized Printing Services?
While PaDS primarily serves WSDOT employees, their services are also available to:
- Consultants and contractors working with WSDOT.
- State, city, and county government offices.
This illustrates that specialized “local printing shops” like PaDS, even if initially designed for internal use, can extend their expertise to related external entities, creating a valuable resource hub.
Turnaround Time and Project Scheduling
Efficiency is crucial. PaDS typically completes jobs within one to two days, with same-day completion for many projects. Larger projects may require more time, emphasizing the importance of contacting them directly to schedule and confirm delivery times for individual projects. Their priority system, focused on highway construction documents and legislative materials first, reflects the critical nature of government deadlines.
Contact and Location
Located in Olympia, WA, WSDOT’s PaDS can be contacted at 360-705-7840 to schedule projects and inquire about specific needs. While physically located, their service model represents the kind of dedicated, expert “local printing shop” that government agencies and related organizations should seek – focusing on specialized expertise, reliability, and secure handling of sensitive documents. When searching for “local printing shops”, consider expanding your definition to include these specialized service centers that can offer unparalleled value for specific organizational needs.
