Offset vs. Digital Presses: Printers Discuss Crossover Points (Free Webinar Still Available On-Demand)
PHILADELPHIA—August 1, 2014—In the "Myth Busters: Comparing 'Offset 2.0' vs. Digital Presses for Short-Run, Static Jobs" Webinar presented this week by Printing Impressions and sponsored by Heidelberg, Taylor Blackwell, owner of Walker360 in Montgomery, AL; and Mallery Mele, owner of Mele Printing in Covington, LA, discussed how they determine what work gets printed on their offset gear, and what gets produced on their digital output devices in their individual shops. In addition to an assortment of digital printing equipment, both print providers own Heidelberg Anicolor presses geared for short-run production, as well as conventional offset machines. The Webinar was moderated by Mark Michelson, editor-in-chief, of Printing Impressions.
The digital/offset crossover point for short-run static work can certainly vary from print shop to print shop. Blackwell and Mele revealed what factors they consider, including quantity, size of the piece, ink coverage, number of pages, finishing and substrate requirements, PMS spot colors and much more. The panelists also discussed whether or not digital printing has been "oversold" in the market, given that the majority of short-run printing produced today doesn't require personalization.
The more than 400 Webinar registrants reported positive feedback. Here are just a few of the comments:
"It was helpful to hear first-hand from business owners as they discussed the value of the Anicolor and how they utilize it."
"I enjoyed hearing from the viewpoint of the owners how they incorporate different pieces of equipment in their shops to be financially effective."
"The Webinar provided realistic perspectives on short-run production equipment alternatives."
"Hearing from real users of the technology about its positive sides and its limitations was helpful."
