Software and Controls
Using Data Analytics to Improve Print Output and Profitability
Jon-Michael McCartney, director of print and packaging, X-Rite C
olour data is an essential tool for improving packaging print operations. Recent advancements in data analytics tools, particularly print production software, are playing a crucial role in this transformation. These tools empower converters by providing deep insights into their entire print processes, from prepress to production, allowing them to better assess and improve print quality.
With enhanced visibility, converters can transform how they operate, signifi cantly enhancing print quality, effi ciency and customer satisfaction. The integration of print production software allows converters to make data-driven decisions that can shorten make-ready time and correct colour quality issues during the print run.
REAL-TIME QUALITY MONITORING One of the greatest advantages of print monitoring software is its ability to ensure colour accuracy across all print runs, whether re-printing previous jobs or printing the same job on multiple presses. For converters managing CMYK, Expanded Gamut and Spot Color workfl ows, software like X-Rite ColorCert ScoreCard Server provides a comprehensive, real-time view of colour performance across presses and production sites.
The software uses a single-number score to track print quality, enabling operators to quickly spot deviations. Advanced analytics allow operators to drill down into each score, identifying the root cause of colour issues related to ink, press settings, or plates. This level of insight enables immediate adjustments or preventative maintenance to correct colour variations, thereby reducing downtime, waste and lost revenue.
OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY GAINS Beyond colour accuracy, print monitoring software signifi cantly improves operational effi ciency. Converters gain real-time performance data across production facilities, presses and brand customers. By tracking trends and comparing colour quality between runs, regions or even specifi c colour combinations, converters can identify opportunities for process improvement. With customisable, automated reports, managers can ensure the right information is available to drive continuous improvements and boost profi tability.
REDUCING COSTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
By combining a digital print program with data analytics, converters can eliminate guesswork, rejections and reprints; common sources of waste in traditional print quality programs. Real-time colour quality reporting to brand customers also reduces the need for unnecessary ink drawdowns and proofi ng cycles, saving both ink and operational resources.
Additionally, converters can reduce the ambiguity of proofi ng with physical samples and swatches, reducing the time and cost of shipping proof samples or on-site press checks. By improving fi rst-run success rates and minimising ink waste, converters lower material costs and make their operations more sustainable.
STRENGTHENING THE CONVERTER AND BRAND RELATIONSHIP
Building strong relationships with brands is essential for long-term success. Print monitoring software, like ColorCert ScoreCard Server, helps achieve better print quality and fosters stronger collaboration with customers. By off ering real-time, unbiased data on print quality, converters can demonstrate their commitment to meeting brand standards and consistently delivering accurate, high-quality packaging.
STAYING AHEAD WITH ADVANCED PRINT MONITORING
Converters are under increasing pressure to deliver high-quality, short run, personalised packaging. This means processing more jobs and maintaining tight production schedules. Any colour inconsistencies between jobs or errors leads to waste, rework and unhappy brand clients, ultimately impacting your bottom line.
Figure 1: X-Rite ColorCert ScoreCard Server dashboard
Real-time visibility into print operations allows converters to be more agile and adaptive in an ever- evolving market. Print monitoring and quality control software provide the data and statistical capabilities necessary to monitor and improve colour performance. This valuable insight helps printers enhance quality, streamline operations, reduce material costs and support sustainability eff orts. In today’s competitive landscape, how eff ectively printers harness the power of data will be the key to maximising profi tability and achieving sustainable growth.
40
November 2024
www.convertermag.com
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54
