As the world is getting more digital with each passing day, more and more job seekers and workers are looking for remote opportunities. Although traditional printing is not really a thing anymore, a more modernized form has taken its place. It is called cloud printing.
Cloud printing connects digital devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, to work as printers through a cloud-based system. It is convenient and comfortable for employees and people who are not always available in the office. Now, it has grown to become a part of sublimation printing.
People and businesses can use cloud-based design software for sublimation printing because of its ease of access and availability. Other than that, it has many more benefits, which we will discuss below.
- More Efficiency and Reliability
Traditional print-on-demand with platform-based software can sometimes face complications. These may include issues with hardware, software drivers, compatibility, and/or connectivity. Also, it can be hard for people to collaborate on a single file, share ideas, and share files between them.
As opposed to this, cloud-based design software allows more efficiency in work. It does not really depend on software or drivers, and you don’t have to manage it individually. Also, it is much more reliable as you are not dependent on a single computer or person.
- Offers Better Security
Working with a single platform-based software is not very reliable in terms of security, either. Moreover, when it comes to sharing and collaboration, you may have to send the file(s) to each person individually, which can prove to be less secure and effective. Even if you install reliable security software, you still cannot stop files from being stolen or misused.
On the other hand, cloud-based printing software offers advanced security. You can enhance it via several security integrations and different control measures over authorization and access. Also, businesses and individuals can define the security policies themselves to restrict access to printers or files, which reduces the overall risk of sensitive information getting into the wrong hands.
- Reduces Costs
Traditional printing can be costly sometimes. It requires capable hardware, software, and other connectivity accessories. In addition, it may need a separate person to operate and manage everything. Although it may seem less, it can become a lot over time.
Compared to this, some cloud-based printing software does not depend entirely on hardware, and some can run on computers with fewer configurations. Also, you can access the designs from anywhere and store them on the cloud whenever you want. It is also beneficial for businesses and individuals working remotely.
- Accessible From Everywhere
Sometimes, businesses and people working with sublimation printing don’t have a set place of work. Also, if they travel a lot, it can be difficult for them to carry their files, documents, and/or projects with them everywhere they go.
On the flip side, cloud-based design software is accessible from anywhere and everywhere. You can also make adjustments, share files, or start printing from your smartphone and tablet, whether you are in the office, at home, or on the road.
- Allows Access to Remote Workers
You must know that it can sometimes be hard for remote workers to access the printer. Moreover, even if they can somehow access it, they have to make certain preparations in advance. Even then, they cannot collaborate on projects or communicate well regarding the progress.
Thanks to the cloud-based design software and printing, it is now possible and easy for people to manage their projects. They can give access to anyone from their PC, smartphone, or tablet. Also, multiple people can work on the same file and share ideas. It reduces the workload on the person, employee, or business.
- Easy Installation and Maintenance
When working with traditional designing and printing software, you have to install certain software and drivers to make it run without issues. Moreover, you must manage and update it occasionally to keep it in top form.
When talking about cloud-based design software, you don’t have to install any additional software. It works solely online, and the software that does want you to install it separately, manage it, and update it. It takes a little extra burden off your shoulders and saves time.
- Better For the Environment
Let’s be honest; extra hardware leads to more electronic waste and energy consumption, thus contributing to environmental harm. It is not just for the system or printer you are using but also takes into account the supporting staff, their systems, and the energy they use.
However, using cloud-based design software for sublimation printing significantly reduces the hardware you need and even lowers carbon emissions. The latter is because of the less space required by the servers to hold the files and share resources.
- Scales With Your Needs
With traditional platform-based designing software and hardware, you have to upgrade each component and software version as your needs grow. The first thing you have to upgrade is the storage capacity, which can get out of hand in works like sublimation printing.
Cloud-printing limits the upgrades to a minimum requirement that you need for actual print-on-demand software. It also eliminates the need to constantly upgrade your storage and specifications to keep up with the needs of the software. You can buy more cloud storage, which may seem expensive, but it is much more cost-effective and environmentally friendly in the long run.
- Does Not Depend On Platform
Most platform-based design and printing software and hardware depend on the platform you own. If it is a Mac, you will need to download the Mac version of the software, and you can’t really upgrade a Mac. And if it’s a Windows system, you will need the Windows version, and have to find compatible hardware to upgrade.
Comparatively, cloud-based design software is not entirely dependent on the platform. Most of these software run on every platform, and some are even available in smartphone and tablet versions.
- Gives Flexibility and Management
Lastly, platform-based working requires you to stick to one place. Also, you cannot easily share, collaborate, communicate with your team, or carry your work to any other place, even the room next door.
In comparison, with cloud-based designing software, you have the utmost freedom. It gives you more flexibility to work and share files. Also, it is highly manageable and much more efficient when it comes to collaboration.
5 Best Cloud-Based Sublimation Printing Software
Now that you have learned about the benefits of cloud-based design software, it is time to review some of the best options.
- Canva
If you are in the design work, you must know about Canva. It is one of the best free cloud-based design software. It offers tons of free templates, elements, and things you need to design stunning prints for sublimation printing. Still, you can always go for the premium version if you need more design elements.
- Inkscape
Inkscape is a professional vector graphics software that is very popular among people working with sublimation printing. It also offers cloud support so you can access your Inkscape from anywhere with an internet connection. It provides flexible drawing tools with several file formats, compatibility, and ease of use.
- Adobe Creative Cloud
Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator are not themselves cloud-based platforms, but Adobe Creative Cloud is a powerful competitor in this list. It enables you to share and access your Photoshop files from anywhere in the world. Also, it offers more design-related software. However, it may seem expensive to beginners and people on a tight budget.
- Photopea
Photopea is another powerful, advanced, and completely online photo editor tool for sublimation printing. It is available for free and offers many features that you will find in high-end designing software. However, as it is entirely online, you will need to have a constant internet connection to work with it.
- Printful
Another powerful, online, and fantastic design software popular for sublimation printing is Printful. It is easy-to-use, high-quality software that comes at a great price. Moreover, once you get the hang of the software, you can also opt to sell your designs and grow your business with Printful. It is one of the best tools to create and sell custom on-demand products.
Final Takeaway
In conclusion, cloud-based, online design software removes several hassles of working with platform-based tools, where comfort and convenience are the top ones. They are also easy to use, offer several templates for easy designing, and you can access them anywhere you like.
We also mentioned some of the best online design tools you can use with sublimation printing.
Liam Carter is a lifelong tech enthusiast and PC aficionado with over 8 years of experience exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. From building custom rigs to reviewing the latest laptops and gaming peripherals, Liam brings a hands-on, practical approach to his content.