Digital printing services refer to printing finished pages for brochures, journals and booklets from the computer rather than using an offset printing press and commercial printer. Although digital printer systems do not compete with high-speed newspaper and magazine presses, it is expected that these "analog" monsters will become all digital in time.
As a guideline for newcomers in this field, here are some things needed in opening a site for printing services. The most basic need would be the commercial printer itself, the cutter, the finishing materials, the paper supplies, the ink, the plates (to do offset printing), and computers. The other needs include personnel; a layout artist who will also be the creative department head and an assistant artist who can do most of the finishing jobs like cutting, binding, and packing. For managing the ongoing business routines including marketing and finance an accounting staff is essential.
Digital printing services provide high volume web or sheet fed printing, duplication and publication of magazines, newspapers, catalogs, brochures, graphics, drawings, images and other printed media. The printing processes may include digital printing, laser printing, offset printing, flexographic printing, lithographic, screen printing, thermal transfer, letterpress, gravure, reverse roll, and other printing processes. Digital printers can print original media and/or duplicate or copy existing materials. Text, images, graphics, technical drawings may be printed or duplicated.
This business is no doubt highly promising as many organizations use digital printing services for their promotional or marketing materials. Digital printing services may also include design and editing services, and direct mailing or distribution services. Large scale printing services providers may also offer marketing and promotion services, such as managing the creation of trade show booths and materials. A digital printing company typically offers a variety of printing technologies that an organization can choose from to meet budget and design criteria, ranging from simple reprographic techniques to full color printing. The techniques that are typically used for large print runs includes Lithographic Digital Commercial Printing Services or offset printing involves using a plate of zinc or aluminum that is treated to retain ink in the image part of the plate and repel ink in the non-image part of the plate. Flexographic commercial printing uses a rubber cylinder with a relief of the image on it to transfer the image to the paper.
The basic points to consider while setting up digital printing services include:
*Always use Microsoft Publisher 2003
*Choose the color model early
*Make sure the publication pages are the correct size
*Allow for bleeds
*Use linked pictures
*Proof the colors on a desktop printer
*Avoid using synthetic font styles
*Avoid using tints for text at small font sizes
*Use the Pack and Go Wizard to prepare the publication file