45 January / February 2025 - Issue 352 www.printmonthly.co.uk a different profile. As a trade printer, we produce a huge variety of large-format signage products meaning we have a strong grasp on the nuances of colour management, and we are always happy to advise our customers on any queries they may have.” For those hesitant about upgrading existing systems, Conway says this should be seen as an absolute necessity if they are to keep up with developments and evolving demands in the wider market. If they do not invest properly or not pay enough attention, they risk being left in the dust of those companies that can deliver more accurate and visually pleasing printed work. “As with other areas of print, colour management is continuously evolving, and your colour management capabilities should be monitored and upgraded just as you would with any other area of production to avoid the risk of inaccurate colour reproduction,” Conway says, continuing: “It’s simply not enough to invest in a large-format printer and rely on pre-set colour profiles. The investment extends far beyond the hardware and overlooking this area of production could prove to be a costly mistake, both financially and to your reputation.” Conway also echoes the word of Marin and the Printing UNITED Alliance in advocating for training to help ensure staff are aware of new advancements and technologies. He says: “Investing in good quality colour management software and training also means that should any repairs or replacements be needed for large-format print or signage situated out in the elements, you can easily reproduce any section without having to completely reprint the entire graphic.” Building for the Future Clearly, there is plenty going on in colour management. Software developers are bringing to market new and updated solutions on a regular basis to ensure customers are achieving the best quality in all printed work. At the same time, manufacturers are introducing new and innovative colour management capabilities to their printing hardware, again with the aim of supporting users and their own accuracy targets. Given the recent advancements in this sector, we can certainly look forward to more developments and new solutions to make life even easier for print companies working across all manner of markets. This could be boosted further with more collaboration between developers and equipment manufacturers. Screen Graphic Solutions took this a step further in April 2024, adding Germany’s CGS ORIS to its own group of companies. CGS is primarily engaged in the development and sales of colour technology products, working on colour management and digital proofing solutions since its establishment in 1985. Screen, then Dainippon Screen, began to build a business partnership with CGS in 1991 when the two companies cooperated on the development of colour technologies for scanner and recorder systems. Acquiring CGS takes this to the next level and could open doors to new advancements with colour management technologies. Kunio Muraji, who has led the development of various flagship products created by Screen, including its Truepress JET 520HD printing system, has now assumed the role of chief operating officer to further enhance the business synergy already shared by the two companies. “Going forward, the partners will work to integrate CGS’s colour technologies with the core colour management systems used in Screen’s Truepress series of digital inkjet presses and workflow products,” Screen says, adding: “This is expected to drive significant new innovations in intuitive, high-function printing technologies. “The companies will also focus on fine-tuning the integration of CGS’s products with Screen’s workflow solutions, including EQUIOS, with a view to delivering even more advanced colour management solutions. These applications will target a variety of workflows, including analogue and digital environments as well as hybrid operations that combine both.” It’s clear that achieving accurate colours and working with trusted developers to ensure your systems are up to date will help you to achieve the best quality, and accurate, printed work. Doing this will help you secure repeat business from valuable customers and even win new work from clients seeking high levels of accuracy in their printed projects. ▲ Colour management systems should include features such as colour standardisation, design monitor calibration, and colour analysis ▼ Venture Banners director Scott Conway says being a trade-only wide-format printer means it is crucial the company delivers consistent quality COLOUR MANAGEMENT
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