Screen Printing - April/May 2013 - (Page 24)

G raphics printers have been very aggressive in investing in digital imaging technology; however, many have forgotten that once capacity has been increased on the back end, print providers need to be able to handle their work efficiently from design to print to cut. Time to market is mission critical. Therefore, optimizing the process between customer files coming in and printing or cutting is essential. Reducing waste and minimizing errors are key factors in remaining competitive. The idea of automated workflows for graphics producers has gained steam over the past couple of years. We see it in two fronts: First, RIP manufacturers are identifying that, to maintain competitive, they have had to add new features. Color management quickly comes to mind. While shops have experimented with commercial print workflows, they have never been very specific to the unique challenges of producing signs and displays. So, while many existing workflows have been customized to do an ample job, a new class of solutions suddenly appears: off-the-shelf workflows specifically for the production of signage and graphics. Built with modular features, they allow a print provider to choose the features that are most important to them. What do workflows do that make them attractive? How can they help resolve some of the challenges and offer opportunities to a graphics producer? This article discusses the role of workflow-management software in digital imaging and describes some of the key features to consider. GettinG tHe desiGn ready for print Many customer-submitted files are not capable of going through a RIP. In most shops, there is usually only one expert—the person everyone turns to when they can’t process customers’ files. This person can usually look at a file and almost immediately determine where Bill Hartman Esko FiGure 1 preflighting automatically checks files for errors and potential problems before they go to press. this option can prevent costly press stoppages. 24 screenprinting

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Screen Printing - April/May 2013

Screen Printing - April/may 2013
Contents
Editorial Insights
New Products
Keeping Pace With Digital
Creating Artwork for DTG
Perspectives on UV LED Curing
Form and Function: Digitally Decorated Textiles
Diving Into Digital Workflows
Distributor/Dealer Directory
Opportunity Exchange
Advertising Index
Shop Talk

Screen Printing - April/May 2013