15 October 2024

We may be living in a digital age. But printers and publishers don’t have to worry as the printed paper is far from becoming obsolete. Despite being part of an increasingly digital world, there are several compelling benefits and experiences offered by paper that digital cannot compete with. From better environmental impact to enhanced productivity, the physical quality of paper offers clear advantages that cannot be replicated by screens.

Better Cognitive Retention

Research has shown that people absorb and retain information better when reading from paper rather than a screen. Print offers deeper memory retention than digital media, stimulating mental engagement and allowing readers to better process information.

Though this may not mean that we will be seeing a massive switch back to paper content, we can rest assured that the significant value of print content means it will not be disappearing anytime soon.

This is good news for the education and business sectors, where understanding and recall are critical. In a recent study, 71% of students reported that paper-based learning was better, with only 6% preferring digital-based learning.

More Sustainable than You Think

Contrary to the belief that digital documents are better for the environment, sometimes printing is the better choice. This is especially so for documents that you need to frequently consult, as opening a PDF three times on a digital device actually consumes more energy! In such instances, printing documents can help us to reduce the carbon footprint generated from producing and using electronics.

With more companies increasingly turning to sustainable paper production methods, sourcing from responsibly managed forests, and supporting the circular economy, paper today is designed to align with both environmental values and business needs.

Builds Credibility

Tangible printed documents leave a lasting impression in ways that digital files cannot. There’s a reason why professionals prefer to hand out physical reports, business cards, and proposals during meetings, as paper feels more real, more personal, and more engaging.

The physical nature of printed material fosters a deeper emotional connection, helping to build stronger relationships between brands and their customers. Whether it is for marketing purposes or everyday communication, paper increases the perception of quality by engaging the senses.

Higher Productivity

Digital distractions, such as emails, notifications, and endless online browsing, can weaken attention spans and lead to reduced productivity. On the other hand, printed documents offer a focused reading experience with fewer interruptions. Providing physical copies of key documents at work can lead to better focus and understanding. Employees are likely to feel more organised and less overwhelmed than those juggling numerous digital files.

Greater Versatility in Printing Solutions

The demand for high-quality specialised paper remains strong across B2B and B2C sectors. Whether you’re a business or a consumer, there is a solution for your specific printing needs. From a glossy finish for business documents to vivid colours for assessment books, each type of paper is designed to enhance the output from different types of printers. This ensures that the final product is always crisp and visually appealing.

Print at home or for your business—having the right paper for your specific printer can elevate the quality of the final result, delivering a valuable asset for presentations, marketing materials, or just personal enjoyment.

In conclusion, choosing paper over digital is more than just nostalgia. It is about making informed decisions that benefit both the environment and our cognitive well-being. By embracing paper’s unique strengths, business and individuals alike can enhance productivity, memory retention, and sustainability.

For those looking for versatile, high-quality paper options that can help you achieve the best results, explore our PaperOne™ range: https://www.paperone.com/office-papers/office-paper-range.