The Changing Face of
◆ BY MIKE BURNETT ◆
A
LTHOUGH THERE are conflict- could print over 250 sheets per hour and are delivered in electronic format for
ing records of how long print- was powered by steam. From this process, production either in print or an alternate
ing has been in existence, we we progressed to the cylinder offset pro- delivery system. Digital and inkjet presses
can all agree it has changed cess, whereby an image was produced on allow for a customized product to each
substantially through the years. a metal plate, “offset” to a rubber blanket, subscriber. Digital web presses produce
From its earliest stages, printing has and transferred to the paper. The offset magazines like the one you now read at
been an art form requiring craftsmen. process is still the predominant print pro- 55,000 pages per hour in full color!
In the early days, there was wood-block cess in terms of volume even today. Electronic readers are also major news.
printing and cylinder seals. Artisans carved From the early stages, printing was E-readers such as the Kindle, Nook, and
intricate patterns into the imprint piece used for commu-
and then transferred the image to cloth or nicating words,
photos, ideas, and
knowledge. Little
has changed since
then. The process
of communication
today, though, is
greatly altered. We
now communicate
through email, text
paper with the addition of a pigment. We messages, social
can thank the Chinese for being the pio- networking sites,
neers in the block text field. Block printing as well as books
became widely used around 1400 as paper and magazines.
became readily available. Our information
When the first movable type process is flashed to us via
was invented, book printing was off and instant messages and web pages. Printing Sony Reader provide access to books and
running in earnest. Metal type pieces has kept pace and continues to progress. magazines anytime, and with constantly
were durable and arranged in rows and Case in point: The magazine you are updated content. You are now also able
columns to produce the text desired. Each now reading is available online, as well as to read many of your favorite publica-
page was laid out or “set” by individual in print. Why? Because we can commu- tions from your smart phone and per-
characters. The high-quality and low-cost nicate with anyone who has an Internet sonal computer as well as in print.
Gutenberg Bible was produced in 1455, connection, regardless of where they At Pathway Press, our goal is to offer
using the latest inks and process from are. While the print version is still the you the good news in your format of
Johannes Gutenberg. The Gutenberg Press preferred medium for the vast majority choice. Advancements in technology pre-
remained in use for over 300 years. of Evangel readers, the online edition has sent us with new opportunities to influ-
The invention of the printing press been accessed in the past three months ence others with the written word.
revolutionized book production and the by individuals from 31 countries.
spread of the printed word. In 1800, a cast- The print industry is rapidly shifting Mike Burnett is the director of printing for
iron printing press was introduced that to a fully digital environment. All files Pathway Press.
EVANGEL • MAR 2010 17
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