You need to build systems that work for you. Test the substrates. For outdoor graphics, bring the graphics into the bathtub or bring it outdoors and use the hose and soak it. See what works and what doesn't. The ones that fail usually fail quickly.
Testing is a high priority.
Successful people do testing on a regular basis. On the Horizon Right now Burton says canvas and textiles are hopping substrates. I'm not sure what the focus is, whether it's apparel, ties, or interior decorating. There's so much fabric out there. Other items of note include a perforated scrim vinyl and a backprinted polycarbonate.