Publication Cost Analysis Techniques DEVELOPMENT by CORPORATION

This paper describes the results obtained from analyzing past printing require-ments at System Development Corporation ard determining alternative methods of printing, duplication, and distribution. The techniques useJ in determining the costs for each of the several alternative methods are described, and elements of cost discussed briefly. The techniques permit comparisons between standard offset printing methods and conventional distribution of bound, paper copies using less conventional publishing and distribution methods--aperture cards, microfiche, and microfilm cartridges. The cost appraisal methods are not dependent on the printing techniques used by the System Development Corporation, but are equally applicable to any company. The results, showing percentage differences between the alternative methods, do reflect what we are doing, and how we charge for material, labor, overhead, general and administrative expenses, and the like. But the techniques are not company specific. Seven different methods were investigated, involving three microforms. The methods are tabulated below, along with the type and percentage of distribution of each microform and a brief listing of characteristic features. In our calculations, we used the actual page counts tavolved in publishing change pages to two series of documents over a period of 43 months. We printed over 27,000 change pages, with a total impression count in excess of 17 million. The two series were approximately equal in dollar costs. However, for one series we included a security handling charge, for the other series we did not. Results are shown for the combined totals, and, in addition, where significant differences do exist, the results for each of the series are also shown. Since dollar figures are not particularly meanins~ful, results of the calcula-tions used to determine costs for each method are expressed in percentages. Standard print costs are shown as 100 percent, and all other costs are a percentage of the standard print cost