Comixpress...

[AAlgar]

Okay, I realize I've become "the guy who bitches about Comixpress," but seriously...

I sent Tales of the Odd #3 to them three weeks ago. I have yet to hear even an acknowledgment that they've received my order. A week ago, I sent a follow-up e-mail, which also has not been answered.

I keep hearing about all these big plans they have, but are they ever planning on improving their customer service? This is getting really frustrating. I have a convention to plan for in August. I'd like to know if I'm going to have my third book by then, and if I should even bother trying to finish my fourth book in time.

I really don't think I'm being unreasonable here.

[sto110]

maybe they banned you

[Dr. Blasphemy]

:sunfire:
BURN!
:happy:

[Persevering Guy]

Okay, I realize I've become "the guy who bitches about Comixpress," but seriously...

I sent Tales of the Odd #3 to them three weeks ago. I have yet to hear even an acknowledgment that they've received my order. A week ago, I sent a follow-up e-mail, which also has not been answered.

I keep hearing about all these big plans they have, but are they ever planning on improving their customer service? This is getting really frustrating. I have a convention to plan for in August. I'd like to know if I'm going to have my third book by then, and if I should even bother trying to finish my fourth book in time.

I really don't think I'm being unreasonable here.

I sent Ciderview 5 six weeks ago. They said at the time that they were six weeks behind. I will email them today to check on the status of the book.

In communicating with them, I have found them friendly and fast. They even replaced a whole print run for free when I wasn't happy with it.

[AAlgar]

I sent Ciderview 5 six weeks ago. They said at the time that they were six weeks behind. I will email them today to check on the status of the book.

In communicating with them, I have found them friendly and fast. They even replaced a whole print run for free when I wasn't happy with it.

I will agree with "friendly." When I hear from them, they're very helpful and accomodating.

"Fast" does not remotely describe my experience three times in a row now.

[PhilipClark]

I think they're finally getting back on track. Lots of new books have posted recently.

They turned my job around in about a month. That was about 2 months ago, before they went down for new equipment.

Just stay on Jodi. If you have a con deadline, make them aware of it.

[AAlgar]

I think they're finally getting back on track. Lots of new books have posted recently.

They turned my job around in about a month. That was about 2 months ago, before they went down for new equipment.

Just stay on Jodi. If you have a con deadline, make them aware of it.

The thing is, I sent my book in May. I really didn't think I'd have to put any kind of urgency on something from May to August. :?

[Bill?]

maybe its time for you to start looking into other printers and shit, man.
you call them up and you tell them that Aalgar's Tales Of The Odd is to big for that bullshit.
and then when they say "who the fuck is AAlgar?", call their mother something derogatory and hang up.
:hulk:

[Brian Defferding]

Actually I have a gripe about Comixpress too. About four or so months ago I put in an order for a couple hundred posters. I never heard anything back from them. I sent them an email asking what the status on my order was - nothing. After awhile I just assumed they did not want to do business with me.

Then, last week, I got an email out of the blue from one of their rep's apologizing up and down for their complete lack of response, then asked me if I would still like to do business with them if they gave me twenty percent off and waive their setup fees. Thinking I would be getting a good deal I emailed back and said yes and asked them a couple more questions.

That was last week, and yet again I haven't heard anything back yet. I'm wondering if this company is going down the tubes or something, but this reminds me alot of the ripoff company First Wave. How is Comixpress still standing? Where is their customer service? Sorry, I'm very unimpressed and I think after this I will be looking elsewhere to print posters.

[Alex K.]

I think, and this is just my opinion based on observation, that ordering large print runs isn't the best use of Comicxpress' service. While they may seem more accessible and easier to use than traditional printers, it doesn't really seem like they're properly set up for that kind of thing, at least not yet. To me their print-on-demand service is the only reason to do business with them because it lets self-publishers sell their books without having to pay the speculative up front price of a large print run. But if that's what you're planning on doing, then I think it would be more worth your time to research into local printers who will be dealing with less volume or other services who specialize in high volume and large print runs.

[PhilipClark]

I might be able to help you with posters, Brian. PM me.

[alexlannin]

I might be able to help you with posters, Brian. PM me.
I was going to ask if you had used them. Your comic didn't have the tell-tale advertisement on the back page, so I wondered if you did.

[Brian Defferding]

I was going to ask if you had used them. Your comic didn't have the tell-tale advertisement on the back page, so I wondered if you did.

I chose Morgan Printing in North Dakota for my print run :) While this is my first time printing a comic ever, they were fast, reliable, and did a good job keeping me in the loop.

[AAlgar]

I think, and this is just my opinion based on observation, that ordering large print runs isn't the best use of Comicxpress' service. While they may seem more accessible and easier to use than traditional printers, it doesn't really seem like they're properly set up for that kind of thing, at least not yet. To me their print-on-demand service is the only reason to do business with them because it lets self-publishers sell their books without having to pay the speculative up front price of a large print run. But if that's what you're planning on doing, then I think it would be more worth your time to research into local printers who will be dealing with less volume or other services who specialize in high volume and large print runs.

Yeah, my needs are maybe not the best suited to what they offer. I sell my own books through my own website, and I like having copies in my hand to take to cons, local shops, etc.

[Bill!]

I chose Morgan Printing in North Dakota for my print run :) While this is my first time printing a comic ever, they were fast, reliable, and did a good job keeping me in the loop.

Where is that at in North Dakota? I haven't heard of it. How does the finished product look?

[Brian Defferding]

Where is that at in North Dakota? I haven't heard of it. How does the finished product look?

They're in Grafton. I'm happy with the finished product; the cover stock is exactly how I wanted it and how I imagined it. Check out their website here (http://www.morganprinting.com/).

[matthew spatola]

I haven't had a problem with them but it is true that they are bad when it comes to email and communication. THey had my book to me in less than a month. I made them aware of when I needed the order by and it was actually a day ahead. I found by putting "IMPORTANT" or "ASAP" in the subject line they responded very quickly.

I had the oppurtunity to meet with the owners during Wiz Philly and they are very nice people. I think they are extremely busy with orders and that does affect their customer service. I said that to them, even brought up some ideas for them. THey are extremely busy because of convention business.

[AAlgar]

I haven't had a problem with them but it is true that they are bad when it comes to email and communication. THey had my book to me in less than a month. I made them aware of when I needed the order by and it was actually a day ahead. I found by putting "IMPORTANT" or "ASAP" in the subject line they responded very quickly.

I had the oppurtunity to meet with the owners during Wiz Philly and they are very nice people. I think they are extremely busy with orders and that does affect their customer service. I said that to them, even brought up some ideas for them. THey are extremely busy because of convention business.

I understand they're a small outfit that's overwhelmed by the business. My thought is simply: how hard can it be to send me an e-mail saying "the current wait is X weeks"? I get NOTHING.

[alexlannin]

I chose Morgan Printing in North Dakota for my print run :) While this is my first time printing a comic ever, they were fast, reliable, and did a good job keeping me in the loop.
I knew you didn't, I was talking to Dreamchild. I'd actually love it if you'd pm me more info on Morgan.

[PhilipClark]

I was going to ask if you had used them. Your comic didn't have the tell-tale advertisement on the back page, so I wondered if you did.

I did issue #5 with ComixPress. The ad's on the inside back cover.

[chamber715]

I chose Morgan Printing in North Dakota for my print run :) While this is my first time printing a comic ever, they were fast, reliable, and did a good job keeping me in the loop.

I met one of Morgan Printing's reps last year at Chicago. I haven't used them yet, but from the communication I've had with them, they're pretty fast to respond.

[alexlannin]

Actually, I just emailed them. Thanks!

[alexlannin]

I did issue #5 with ComixPress. The ad's on the inside back cover.
Ah, okay.

[Brian Defferding]

I knew you didn't, I was talking to Dreamchild. I'd actually love it if you'd pm me more info on Morgan.

Most of their info on Morgan can be found at http://www.morganprinting.com. You can create a quote online and they'll both email and call you back with a quote and to see if you have any questions. Gary Grinde was the rep I worked with there, and he was always pleasant and knowledgeable over the phone.

[alexlannin]

Most of their info on Morgan can be found at http://www.morganprinting.com. You can create a quote online and they'll both email and call you back with a quote and to see if you have any questions. Gary Grinde was the rep I worked with there, and he was always pleasant and knowledgeable over the phone.
Thanks, awesome!

[DanLTaylor]

I emailed comixpress with some questions 2 days ago. Got the automated reply that I would hear back from them within 2 business days. That's been my dealings with them so far.

[AAlgar]

I emailed comixpress with some questions 2 days ago. Got the automated reply that I would hear back from them within 2 business days. That's been my dealings with them so far.

Well, they've HEARD of you. :roll:

[DungeonMasterJim]

Over at DigitalWebbing.com a lot of people have used Comixpress and very much liked the final product. But they admit too that the communication with Comixpress is generally less than stellar.

I submitted an order I think in late May. I haven't been told yet that they have even looked at my files. It did take them awhile to get back to me and I think I e-mailed them three times. One e-mail I did get back from them in 20 minutes so I have no idea how they decide who to communicate with and who not to.

DM Jim

[CraigM]

I understand all the concerns with the speed of ComiXpress, but if you don't mind me interjecting here with something that may help you understand everything that's going on.

Jodi works on ComiXpress ALL DAY long. It's just her as well as she has to watch her four kids. Logan has a day job and then comes home at night and he works on stuff till maybe around midnight.

They never expected it to be this big, and you have to imagine that Jodi is trying to answer emails as well as get printings of books done, both new and re-orders. They have a three month backlog on things, with stuff from March still needing to be printed. They're trying and don't think they're unaware of all the unanswered emails. I can almost guarantee you though AA, that you will have your books for Chicago if that's what you're shooting for. I don't think they've EVER missed a deadline if you ask for your books by a certain time.

Also, there are a lot of plans in the work (I know, here we go again :P) as I and a close friend of mine are going to be working with them to bring their functionality up and everything. Once we get all of the different projects running for ComiXpress, I think you will see a substantial decrease in time with getting emails back, etc.

Craig

[AAlgar]

I finally heard back from them, after almost a month and three follow-up e-mails.

Basically I was told "sorry we haven't answered you sooner, you're going to have to wait several more weeks. Bye."

I seriously do not see why everyone keeps jumping to their defense. This is the lousiest customer service I have ever received.

[Susan BANthony]

I finally heard back from them, after almost a month and three follow-up e-mails.

Basically I was told "sorry we haven't answered you sooner, you're going to have to wait several more weeks. Bye."

I seriously do not see why everyone keeps jumping to their defense. This is the lousiest customer service I have ever received.

Part of the reason we decided not to have our anthology published through them. Didn't know if we'd have it on time, and the "at least a six week backlog, if not longer" seemed a little daunting.

Hope you get this settled, AAl.

[AAlgar]

Part of the reason we decided not to have our anthology published through them. Didn't know if we'd have it on time, and the "at least a six week backlog, if not longer" seemed a little daunting.

Hope you get this settled, AAl.

Who did you decide to go with?

[Susan BANthony]

Who did you decide to go with?

Some local little Chicago company that Murdock's Girl knows of. I'm still waiting on an address, but they apparently do good work and have a cost that's about the same as Comixpress. They ask for half up front.

[The Roman Candle]

AND their ink smells AWFUL.

[Thomas Mauer]

AND their ink smells AWFUL.

Whose ink?

[noble]

I've NEVER had comixpress miss an order. Ever. That's with over 12 orders I've put in for Ronin. If I need it by such and such date, it always arrives even if they have to put in a rush shipping(and they never have charged me for rush shipping if they used it to get a book to me)

I know that some people like to know every detail of what's going on, but honestly if they haven't messed up for me yet, I'm not going to pester them until they do. Sure they don't answer emails very rapidly, but honestly I'd rather them work on my books then answer questions.

I don't understand why everyone is upset with 6 week turnaround time. When I first started looking 8 weeks or more was the standard for POD, and comixpress has lowered that by at least 2 weeks, and this is when they are busy. I've been told that once the new equipment is up and running, and the backlog is taken care of, the turnaround time will be around 2 weeks.

Now I know some of you are saying how hard can it be to answer my 1 email. Now imagine they have 200 customers, now imagine the time it takes to read through each email and respond. You're talking a good days worth of work there. A day that could be spent getting books printed. I'm sure if there was a problem that they couldn't make a date or something they would respond.

We've went through this with a few Ronin members who was freaked out at their lack of response, but we assured them, same as I'm doing here, that the books will be there. And at the end of the day, the books were there when they were suppossed to be every time.

[Persevering Guy]

I've NEVER had comixpress miss an order. Ever. That's with over 12 orders I've put in for Ronin. If I need it by such and such date, it always arrives even if they have to put in a rush shipping(and they never have charged me for rush shipping if they used it to get a book to me)

I know that some people like to know every detail of what's going on, but honestly if they haven't messed up for me yet, I'm not going to pester them until they do. Sure they don't answer emails very rapidly, but honestly I'd rather them work on my books then answer questions.

I don't understand why everyone is upset with 6 week turnaround time. When I first started looking 8 weeks or more was the standard for POD, and comixpress has lowered that by at least 2 weeks, and this is when they are busy. I've been told that once the new equipment is up and running, and the backlog is taken care of, the turnaround time will be around 2 weeks.

Now I know some of you are saying how hard can it be to answer my 1 email. Now imagine they have 200 customers, now imagine the time it takes to read through each email and respond. You're talking a good days worth of work there. A day that could be spent getting books printed. I'm sure if there was a problem that they couldn't make a date or something they would respond.

We've went through this with a few Ronin members who was freaked out at their lack of response, but we assured them, same as I'm doing here, that the books will be there. And at the end of the day, the books were there when they were suppossed to be every time.

it's your fault we have to wait some damn long.
:bored:

[CraigM]

it's your fault we have to wait some damn long.
:bored:

It probably is :P

Craig

[AAlgar]

I've NEVER had comixpress miss an order. Ever. That's with over 12 orders I've put in for Ronin. If I need it by such and such date, it always arrives even if they have to put in a rush shipping(and they never have charged me for rush shipping if they used it to get a book to me)

I know that some people like to know every detail of what's going on, but honestly if they haven't messed up for me yet, I'm not going to pester them until they do. Sure they don't answer emails very rapidly, but honestly I'd rather them work on my books then answer questions.

I don't understand why everyone is upset with 6 week turnaround time. When I first started looking 8 weeks or more was the standard for POD, and comixpress has lowered that by at least 2 weeks, and this is when they are busy. I've been told that once the new equipment is up and running, and the backlog is taken care of, the turnaround time will be around 2 weeks.

Now I know some of you are saying how hard can it be to answer my 1 email. Now imagine they have 200 customers, now imagine the time it takes to read through each email and respond. You're talking a good days worth of work there. A day that could be spent getting books printed. I'm sure if there was a problem that they couldn't make a date or something they would respond.

We've went through this with a few Ronin members who was freaked out at their lack of response, but we assured them, same as I'm doing here, that the books will be there. And at the end of the day, the books were there when they were suppossed to be every time.

How do you KNOW they'll be there if you don't hear from them? And if they don't have the staff to communicate with their customers, maybe they need to hire more people.

I'm glad you feel taken care of. I do not.

[WAKKAJAWAKKA]

Okay, I realize I've become "the guy who bitches about Comixpress," but seriously...

I sent Tales of the Odd #3 to them three weeks ago. I have yet to hear even an acknowledgment that they've received my order. A week ago, I sent a follow-up e-mail, which also has not been answered.

I keep hearing about all these big plans they have, but are they ever planning on improving their customer service? This is getting really frustrating. I have a convention to plan for in August. I'd like to know if I'm going to have my third book by then, and if I should even bother trying to finish my fourth book in time.

I really don't think I'm being unreasonable here.

Use The Force

Wayno.

[Shannon Chenoweth]

I'm through with them. I'm now going with the printer that Tess (MG) found where she lives. I emailed Jodi well over a week ago and have yet to hear back.
I'm sorry, but I personally don't care that she has kids to take care of. If you can't take care of your customers, then you've got some issues.
As of September 1st, you will only be able to order my books directly through me.

RC

[Jonny Z]

they don't have a phone number, do they?

[Shannon Chenoweth]

I've NEVER had comixpress miss an order. Ever. That's with over 12 orders I've put in for Ronin. If I need it by such and such date, it always arrives even if they have to put in a rush shipping(and they never have charged me for rush shipping if they used it to get a book to me)

I know that some people like to know every detail of what's going on, but honestly if they haven't messed up for me yet, I'm not going to pester them until they do. Sure they don't answer emails very rapidly, but honestly I'd rather them work on my books then answer questions.

I don't understand why everyone is upset with 6 week turnaround time. When I first started looking 8 weeks or more was the standard for POD, and comixpress has lowered that by at least 2 weeks, and this is when they are busy. I've been told that once the new equipment is up and running, and the backlog is taken care of, the turnaround time will be around 2 weeks.

Now I know some of you are saying how hard can it be to answer my 1 email. Now imagine they have 200 customers, now imagine the time it takes to read through each email and respond. You're talking a good days worth of work there. A day that could be spent getting books printed. I'm sure if there was a problem that they couldn't make a date or something they would respond.

We've went through this with a few Ronin members who was freaked out at their lack of response, but we assured them, same as I'm doing here, that the books will be there. And at the end of the day, the books were there when they were suppossed to be every time.


They need a bigger staff. Customer service needs to be right up there with getting the product done and to the customer.
They also charged me to put a border on my book when we used the info on their site, claiming the bleed lines were wrong. At the time, I said ok. But, I am pretty pissed about that. If you post incorrect info, then the customer shouldn't have to pay for your mistake.
Anyway, I understand that they are busy, but if they can't handle the workload, maybe they need to come up with a way to do so.

RC

[AAlgar]

they don't have a phone number, do they?

If they do, they've done a damn good job of hiding it. It's nowhere on their website, nor on anything I've received from them.

[Shane W]

If they do, they've done a damn good job of hiding it. It's nowhere on their website, nor on anything I've received from them.

What day did you give them for a deadline?

[Artie Pink]

That sucks! I need Tales Of The Odd #3!!

Defferding's comic looks like a million bucks, too. He says he's happy with the service, maybe try his place next time?

[AAlgar]

What day did you give them for a deadline?

I didn't give them one, because I had no specific deadline. I sent them my stuff on May 28. I wanted books in hand by Wizard World Chicago in August. I really didn't have anything more specific than that, and I thought almost 3 months would be enough time.

I also thought they might give me a ballpark estimate of when to expect my books, sometime shortly after I sent my files. At that time, I thought I could tell them if that supported me or not.

Knowing their problems, I'm trying to give them a little leeway. Clearly that works against me since they still can't be bothered to communicate.

[noble]

How do you KNOW they'll be there if you don't hear from them? And if they don't have the staff to communicate with their customers, maybe they need to hire more people.

I'm glad you feel taken care of. I do not.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that they haven't done me or anyone I've spoken to wrong yet. Not one person who has placed an order and said I need this by this date has ever not had their books shipped to them on time.

So until something does go wrong (like they miss a ship date and don't contact me about it) I'm not going to sweat it, and let them do their thing.

But I do agree that they could hire a person to answer emails if that's what it would take to placate people :)

And yes Goodman it is all my fault. I tell them to hell with everyone else, these are MY books now get them printed or no cookies :rofl:

[Shane W]

I didn't give them one, because I had no specific deadline. I sent them my stuff on May 28. I wanted books in hand by Wizard World Chicago in August. I really didn't have anything more specific than that, and I thought almost 3 months would be enough time.

I also thought they might give me a ballpark estimate of when to expect my books, sometime shortly after I sent my files. At that time, I thought I could tell them if that supported me or not.

Knowing their problems, I'm trying to give them a little leeway. Clearly that works against me since they still can't be bothered to communicate.

Well, what you're experiencing is different than any other story I've heard from them. I would e-mail every day, and place the heading of "Important" or "Urgent". Of course you know to be firm, yet polite. Sorry about htis man.

[AAlgar]

Well, what you're experiencing is different than any other story I've heard from them. I would e-mail every day, and place the heading of "Important" or "Urgent". Of course you know to be firm, yet polite. Sorry about htis man.

Therein lies my problem. I know they're busy, and when I sent it to them in May, it was not urgent. I keep hearing about how they're improving their customer service and adding all this new stuff... so I was trying to be a nice guy and let the system work. Clearly it doesn't.

[McAfee]

They're in Grafton. I'm happy with the finished product; the cover stock is exactly how I wanted it and how I imagined it. Check out their website here (http://www.morganprinting.com/).

They have a minimum print run of 1000 copies. That's pretty steep. I've contacted them about an estimate though.

[CraigM]

I guess what I'm trying to say is that they haven't done me or anyone I've spoken to wrong yet. Not one person who has placed an order and said I need this by this date has ever not had their books shipped to them on time.

So until something does go wrong (like they miss a ship date and don't contact me about it) I'm not going to sweat it, and let them do their thing.

But I do agree that they could hire a person to answer emails if that's what it would take to placate people :)

And yes Goodman it is all my fault. I tell them to hell with everyone else, these are MY books now get them printed or no cookies :rofl:

:lol:

And exactly. They were even willing to send me an extremely rushed shipment of Tyr #2 by today and I contacted them two weeks ago. They're going to help you out of any jam you have and be there for you no matter what. It takes a hell of a lot of time to go through emails, just ask Noble :P

If you give them a date, or even email them now saying you need them for Chicago, they'll have them done. I promise you that. They've never missed a deadline and are here for the creators.

Craig

[Shane W]

Therein lies my problem. I know they're busy, and when I sent it to them in May, it was not urgent. I keep hearing about how they're improving their customer service and adding all this new stuff... so I was trying to be a nice guy and let the system work. Clearly it doesn't.

I understand completely. Just out of curiosity, was it early or late may?

[AAlgar]

I guess what I'm trying to say is that they haven't done me or anyone I've spoken to wrong yet. Not one person who has placed an order and said I need this by this date has ever not had their books shipped to them on time.

So until something does go wrong (like they miss a ship date and don't contact me about it) I'm not going to sweat it, and let them do their thing.

But I do agree that they could hire a person to answer emails if that's what it would take to placate people :)

And yes Goodman it is all my fault. I tell them to hell with everyone else, these are MY books now get them printed or no cookies :rofl:

I don't want to start any crap, because I like you and I think you guys have done some fantastic work. But I have heard through the grapevine more than once that the reason Comixpress is so overburdened is because Ronin throws them so much business and they're not set up to handle the workload.

This may be completely wrong, I don't know. It's just what I heard. I wouldn't blame you guys for that if it were true. But it seems to me that if Comixpress can't handle the workload, they should stop accepting new business.

[AAlgar]

I understand completely. Just out of curiosity, was it early or late may?

May 28. I just heard from them for the first time last night, June 21.

[Patton]

I don't want to start any crap, because I like you and I think you guys have done some fantastic work. But I have heard through the grapevine more than once that the reason Comixpress is so overburdened is because Ronin throws them so much business and they're not set up to handle the workload.

This may be completely wrong, I don't know. It's just what I heard. I wouldn't blame you guys for that if it were true. But it seems to me that if Comixpress can't handle the workload, they should stop accepting new business.
That's ridiculous.

compare the number of Ronin books to non ronin books on thier site.

[Jonny Z]

That's ridiculous.

compare the number of Ronin books to non ronin books on thier site.

i think he means copies per book. some guy could have 100 comics out there, but only 10 copies of each, whereas ronin might have 10 comics, but 1,000 copies of each.

[Patton]

i think he means copies per book. some guy could have 100 comics out there, but only 10 copies of each, whereas ronin might have 10 comics, but 1,000 copies of each.
i'm betting ours is average.

Noble--what do we get--like 50-100 of each?

what do others get?

[CraigM]

i think he means copies per book. some guy could have 100 comics out there, but only 10 copies of each, whereas ronin might have 10 comics, but 1,000 copies of each.

The printing isn't what takes the bulk of their times. It's prepping each book for printing.

Though, I'm sure the printing does take time and then stapling them and shipping them takes a good amount of time.

Craig

[AAlgar]

I hope I made it clear that I don't necessarily believe or agree with this theory. It's just something I've heard from more than one source.

[Jonny Z]

I hope I made it clear that I don't necessarily believe or agree with this theory. It's just something I've heard from more than one source.

you believe everything deep throat tells you

[AAlgar]

you believe everything deep throat tells you

Well, this was Deep Throat, Taboo and Green Door.

[Patton]

I hope I made it clear that I don't necessarily believe or agree with this theory. It's just something I've heard from more than one source.
As clear as the fact that you don't necessarily disbelieve it.

I know you can't say, but I'd be interested to hear of these sources. Just because there must be motive for saying something like that.

I really doubt we get much special treatment from them.

where the hell is noble with the facts? lazy ass.

[Patton]

Well, this was Deep Throat, Taboo and Green Door.

didn't take you long to dime them out did it?

[noble]

Yeah our regular run is like 200 copies or so at a time. Then as we need more, we order more.

I don't know it could be us, but if you look at the ratio - we have 14 books on their website out of over 250, it seems like a silly theory.

[Thomas Mauer]

It's probably because they have a section devoted to Ronin books on their site. But there are also sections for other studios/small publishers, so who knows.

[Patton]

It's probably because they have a section devoted to Ronin books on their site. But there are also sections for other studios/small publishers, so who knows.
I blame PV comics.

they have about the same--not including variants.

[James Patrick]

I'm sorry, but I personally don't care that she has kids to take care of.

RC

And I don't think they've ever used it as an excuse. SOmebody else brought it up. They work a normal business day. Kids have nothing to do with it. Having a lot of orders and not having enough people have everything to do with it. That's the problem. Don't bring other things into it.

[James Patrick]

I blame PV comics.

they have about the same--not including variants.

PV doesn't have that many books.

My books would be coming out with our without the PV label. So would Yirmumah and so would Atland.

[CraigM]

And I don't think they've ever used it as an excuse. SOmebody else brought it up. They work a normal business day. Kids have nothing to do with it. Having a lot of orders and not having enough people have everything to do with it. That's the problem. Don't bring other things into it.

I brought it up. And you're right, they've never used it as an excuse nor do I think it's something occupies a lot of their time. I mean, kids to take time, attention, and energy, so some time has to be devoted to them, but it's never been an excuse of theirs.

Craig

[Patton]

PV doesn't have that many books.

My books would be coming out with our without the PV label. So would Yirmumah and so would Atland.
i was kidding.

[James Patrick]

i was kidding.

Sorry. Hard to read the tone at this point.

[Patton]

Sorry. Hard to read the tone at this point.yeah.

blaming any book or group of books is just ridiculous.

I do sometimes wonder why they can't hire more people but that is none of my business and maybe they aren't making as much off of these as i would think.

anway, I meant to make it clear my post was a joke but I forgot.

[James Patrick]

HERE'S THE BOTTOM LINE

Comixpress is now infamous for these things. Have been for a couple months. At this point, you either take the cons with the pros or you go somewhere else.

If you know all this, yet you still use them, why? It's obvious that they porvide things other printers dont'. It's obvious they're cheaper, or better quality or offer a nice distribution alternative. And there's a price being paid in customer service. IT's like when you go to one of those super markets that's cheapr than everything else but you have to bag your own groceris.

And keep in mind, if they hire more people, prices will go up. They can't afford it yet. Now, before anyone says if they can't afford it they shouldn't be in business, keep in mind they are providing things other printers don't. Comixpress is ambitious, nearly revolutionary, and they still figuring it out. If you're not comfortable with it, don't use them.

here's what you need to know.

* They're cheap.

* Their quality is good.

* They offer distribution.

*Their turnaround has slowed down.

*There's no communication.

If you can't get passed the last two, don't use them.

You still have the right to bitch, but don't keep knocking yourselves around because you can't deal with these things. It's a fool me once fool me twice type thing.

I don't want to make anyone angry. I consider aalgar a friend and this is simply something I want to point out because this is how I use them. Understanding these things.

[Thomas Mauer]

Word, James.

[PhilipClark]

There is another option, for anyone doing an ALL AGES-PG book.

The Small Press Association does POD printing.

http://www.dimestoreproductions.com/Community/forum/forum_topics.asp?FID=21 (http://www.dimestoreproductions.com/Community/forum/forum_topics.asp?FID=21)

They're still trying to lock in someone to do their adult books, but for those of you doing the light stuff, look into it.

[Brian Defferding]

They have a minimum print run of 1000 copies. That's pretty steep. I've contacted them about an estimate though.

It's along the lines of most traditional comic printers, otherwise they take a loss.

For another suggestion, perhaps look into the Small Press Co-Op (http://www.spco-op.com/) based in Florida. Normally they do zine printing but they will be happy to arrange better paper stock for comic books; what they do is take your printing job and gang it with another print run with another client, that helps keep the cost of printing down. Nate Powell (http://www.clamormagazine.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=TINYGIANTS&Category_Code=SOFTSKULL&Store_Code=BTM), creator of Walkie Talkie, used Small Press Co-Op to print the first three issues of his series before Top Shelf picked it up - and the quality was great. I was almost going to use them for School: A Ghost Story.

[AAlgar]

HERE'S THE BOTTOM LINE

Comixpress is now infamous for these things. Have been for a couple months. At this point, you either take the cons with the pros or you go somewhere else.

If you know all this, yet you still use them, why? It's obvious that they porvide things other printers dont'. It's obvious they're cheaper, or better quality or offer a nice distribution alternative. And there's a price being paid in customer service. IT's like when you go to one of those super markets that's cheapr than everything else but you have to bag your own groceris.

And keep in mind, if they hire more people, prices will go up. They can't afford it yet. Now, before anyone says if they can't afford it they shouldn't be in business, keep in mind they are providing things other printers don't. Comixpress is ambitious, nearly revolutionary, and they still figuring it out. If you're not comfortable with it, don't use them.

here's what you need to know.

* They're cheap.

* Their quality is good.

* They offer distribution.

*Their turnaround has slowed down.

*There's no communication.

If you can't get passed the last two, don't use them.

You still have the right to bitch, but don't keep knocking yourselves around because you can't deal with these things. It's a fool me once fool me twice type thing.

I don't want to make anyone angry. I consider aalgar a friend and this is simply something I want to point out because this is how I use them. Understanding these things.

I agree with everything you said here.

You are right -- they are the best game in town, price and quality-wise. I have never had any complaints about the product they put out.

I keep hearing (especially from some of their more overzealous defenders on this board) that they're improving. In fact, an e-mail I got from them about a month ago boasted that their turnaround time was about to improve substantially. So after 2 not-so-great experiences, I figured I'd give them another try. They're a small business, and I like to encourage the little guy by "voting with my wallet."

It seems nothing has changed. In fact, it seems that they've gotten worse. And then people report talking to them at cons, and they're making all these huge plans for the future. Personally, I'd get the basics down before I looked at expanding.

Yes, fool me more than once, shame on me. I've been trying to give them the benefit of the doubt and support them through what I thought would be a temporary rough period. Seems they still have a long way to go.

I am exploring other options and will likely be taking my business elsewhere from issue 4 onward.

[noble]

I used Dreamweaver press before comixpress. They are a little more expensive and they don't do color interiors, but they are a damn fine printer. I had Gwailo #1 printed there.

So there are options, but I think the positives far outweigh the negatives at comixpress.

[James Patrick]

I keep hearing (especially from some of their more overzealous defenders on this board) that they're improving.

I don't think I ever said this, and I'm not going to say it until i see them improve. I'm just going to accept the way things are, and if they change they change.

Do keep in mind though, this isn't them saying this publically or to you; this is someone passing on conversation. They're not making official promises, and I doubt they will until they KNOW they can deliver.


In fact, an e-mail I got from them about a month ago boasted that their turnaround time was about to improve substantially. So after 2 not-so-great experiences, I figured I'd give them another try.

I'm not going to defend this. They have to live up to their poromises. What I have seen is a lot of books coming out so that they can catch up. I still don't know how many are between those and ours though. It would seem they're getting things going faster -- though maybe not as fast as they had hoped to fix problems. There's definately been more product.


It seems nothing has changed. In fact, it seems that they've gotten worse. And then people report talking to them at cons, and they're making all these huge plans for the future. Personally, I'd get the basics down before I looked at expanding.

I agree, and I hope they're on their way -- have to fix the hole in the living room before you add on another wing . . .and all that.

[Jonny Z]

I used Dreamweaver press before comixpress. They are a little more expensive and they don't do color interiors, but they are a damn fine printer. I had Gwailo #1 printed there.

So there are options, but I think the positives far outweigh the negatives at comixpress.

i would think not getting your book nor any responses outweighs all positives.

[AAlgar]

I don't think I ever said this, and I'm not going to say it until i see them improve. I'm just going to accept the way things are, and if they change they change.

Do keep in mind though, this isn't them saying this publically or to you; this is someone passing on conversation. They're not making official promises, and I doubt they will until they KNOW they can deliver.

Oh, I know. And that wasn't directed at you.

The bottom line for me is, it's very difficult for me to work with a company that doesn't communicate. At my day job, I am used to keeping things organized to a schedule, keeping in regular touch with vendors and so forth. I want to run my own business with the same efficiency. I can't do that under these conditions.

[Persevering Guy]

I used Dreamweaver press before comixpress. They are a little more expensive and they don't do color interiors, but they are a damn fine printer. I had Gwailo #1 printed there.

So there are options, but I think the positives far outweigh the negatives at comixpress.

The book was difficult to keep open.

[James Patrick]

Oh, I know. And that wasn't directed at you.

The bottom line for me is, it's very difficult for me to work with a company that doesn't communicate. At my day job, I am used to keeping things organized to a schedule, keeping in regular touch with vendors and so forth. I want to run my own business with the same efficiency. I can't do that under these conditions.

Amen, friend.

[AAlgar]

Amen, friend.

JAMES... FRIEND!

FIRE.... BAAAAD!

:frankens:

[DanLTaylor]

So, are there other print on demand options for comic books?

I just established an account at lulu to check them out and they seem more than a bit pricey when it comes to comics.

[noble]

i would think not getting your book nor any responses outweighs all positives.

Again, I've NEVER had them miss a ship date I put in. EVER.

So I have always gotten my books when I needed them.

And again, I'd rather let them work and do their thing then bog them down with a hundred emails that I know they can't get to at this time.

[Shannon Chenoweth]

I brought it up. And you're right, they've never used it as an excuse nor do I think it's something occupies a lot of their time. I mean, kids to take time, attention, and energy, so some time has to be devoted to them, but it's never been an excuse of theirs.

Craig

I only stated that because Craig said it. I didn't bring it into the equation originally.

RC

[Shannon Chenoweth]

Oh, I know. And that wasn't directed at you.

The bottom line for me is, it's very difficult for me to work with a company that doesn't communicate. At my day job, I am used to keeping things organized to a schedule, keeping in regular touch with vendors and so forth. I want to run my own business with the same efficiency. I can't do that under these conditions.

Communication is a big thing to me as well. I understand the amount of email they receive, but when I email someone, I'd like a response.

RC

[Michael John Wheeler]

:? We recently submitted two books (a standard and a mini) and haven't heard back despite the two day e-mail thing. It was submitted to meet the six week print thing for Chicago... I hope we get them.

This is the first comic stuff we've ever done....

[noble]

As long as you put we need them by such and such date you're ok :)

They'll get it to you in time. :D

[Michael John Wheeler]

As long as you put we need them by such and such date you're ok :)

They'll get it to you in time. :D

I did what they said, and sent that in an e-mail to them after I put them up.

[Michael John Wheeler]

Man... I still haven't heard from them. This is ridiculous. I have no idea if they've even looked at my files. I'm not very happy about this....