What a year it’s been. The economy continues to offer ‘all the fun of the fair’ plus the occasional bank run. Yet, the print sector ploughs on through. From Screen Process and Digital Imaging’s perspective, digital technology has continued to swell the news pages, while screen has taken a bit of a bashing.
You would think this would sadden an old fashioned screen fan like me. Nothing of the sort. Under the surface, screen remains an industrial powerhouse driven by technical innovation. Screen has plenty to offer when compared with other less flexible printing techniques, just take a look at the Fespa Sensations project.
So, for 2008, Screen Process and Digital Imaging will be lifting the lid on what screen really has to offer. It may take some of the editorial features into uncharted territory, like the medical and electronics sectors, but it will certainly provide the opportunity for all printers to learn from the success of others.
Let’s not forget, by combining the best attributes of screen and digital, printers can lift themselves out of the price drive commodity marketplace and really start adding value. When I walk through print facilities it’s often the contrast of digital and screen on the same product that actually catches my eye. I guess it’s something to do with the way the brain prioritises the images that my eyes send it. I have no idea how this process works but we might as well exploit it.
I refuse to bleat about the dark economic horizon for 2008 and simply wish you a prosperous and value-added new year.
Jon Barrett
Editor
How many of your customers have asked about the carbon footprint of your printing service?
