August 2009 — Issue #3
PACK EXPO ALERT!! And now….the rest of the news(letter). DIGITAL PRINTING Today we hear a lot about digital printing. What is it? Why should I want digital? or why not? Digital printing is the latest and greatest technology in the printing world. While it has been around for a few years, it is still relatively new and continually evolving. Geared towards “lower volume” runs, on-demand printing and/or variable data or imagery, it may just be the process that’s right for you. But how do you decide or even care if this technology is the right process for what you need.
Another key determinate is the number of colors in the label and the number of copies or sku’s. A one or two color label in lower quantities, say 2000, as a single copy may not be a good candidate for digital print, due to a low utilization. Conversely, a new product launch that is 4 color process with six different versions of 500 each, might be just the ticket. Uncertainty about the products future, possible near term changes to the product or label, market testing, etc, are all valid considerations as to whether digital printing would be beneficial. Advising your label supplier of your marketing intentions is critical in making this decision. Improved turn around times: Not really a key consideration. Granted, digital printing does eliminate some prepress preparation and cost, but in our experience the biggest point of delay is often with the customer themselves, in finalizing the art. Even digital printing can’t print the job if the art isn’t approved. Depending on the circumstances of the particular job, some production time can be reduced, but the run speeds are also slower, somewhat offsetting each other. Print quality and repeatability: Could be an issue to consider. For example, some of your labels are done digital, some flexographic. If they need to match, will they? What about next time? Digital printing and flexography (traditional label printing technology) are two totally different types of printing. They use different inks and pigments, different print resolutions and different methods of achieving color. Usually this is a reasonably controllable factor, not a given, but certainly noteworthy to your supplier. Especially if you’re using multiple suppliers! No printing technology is the pat answer for EVERY print job. Should you as a customer know or care about Digital printing? Certainly not to the point of being an expert. But, as a savvy buyer, you should be aware of the options. Your supplier can recommend the best and most cost effective alternative for your particular job. At Columbine Label, we employ several print technologies. At the end of the day, we feel it is less important on how we achieved our results – as long as our customers are pleased with the results we achieved!
Quotable Quotes"All things are difficult before they are easy."
“Sometimes I wonder whether the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it.” "Most people would learn from their mistakes if they weren't so busy denying they made them." History in August:
Stick with The Columbine Label Company; we stand behind our service, quality and commitment to you. Contact us today for any label or packaging need.866-610-0804
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