GRAPH EXPO 2011 Executive Outlook Conference Reveals Critical Technologies
Automation of the print production process, starting with customer input and concluding with product in the box and semi-automatic invoicing, is the evolving profile of new era printers. This change starts with the use of standalone automated systems or equipment and evolves into integrated automation minimizing production touch points. The automation track includes but is not limited to incorporating CIP4 JDF/JMF methodology.
3. Digital Printing
A strong necessary contender for profitable survival. Digital printing was highly ranked in large part because of its automated approach to short run printing. Over the longer term, capability to produce personalized, individualized or versioned products will gain in differentiation importance. About half of all U.S. sheetfed printers also have digital printing equipment. Within five years the other half may have survival issues without digital printing capability.
4. Cross Platform & Multimedia/Multi Product Capability
Also see Opportunistic Technologies Number 4
5. Web-to-Print
An increasing number of print buyers want to automate providing requests for quotes and job submissions-but may need to be trained for optimum cost-effective results.
Also see Opportunistic Technologies Number 1
The top Opportunistic Technologies are:
1. Web-to-Print
In the opinion of the Selection Committee, implementation of web-to-print capability offers the most immediate opportunity for printers not already offering this service. Web-to-Print integrated with complete sortation of postal discount, e-presentment, and possible e-payment can enhance this opportunity. Several caveats for this selection: a) make sure that this approach fits with key opportunity applications; it is not suitable or necessary for all; b) for efficient use, it may be necessary to demonstrate how to write a printing specification; and, c) consider how this approach meshes with or impacts the sales force.
2. Value-Added Printing
Value can be added to printed products making them unique and marketplace differentiated with dimensional printing (often requiring unique die cutting), UV coating to create special effects, embossing, foiling, lenticular, security/anti-counterfeiting, the use of unique materials and unusual folds, full turnkey QR codes, including web material. A committee suggestion is for every printer to have someone responsible for creating unique value-added.
3. Marketing Services Provider
