The EFI Jetrion 4950lx, the press is just one element of the workflow
Sophie Matthews-Paul outlines why digital end-to-end workflows complement the final output device.
The shift to digital has extended well beyond the traditional markets where a more finely tuned workflow might be required and, although both labels and packaging are both included in the transition that is taking place in print houses and with converters, there is still sometimes a reticence about the true benefits of using inkjet technology in these segments. In practical terms, a digital printing machine that is either narrow web or sheetfed, is only one aspect to generating an efficient end-to-end workflow. While the print device is, of course, important so are the other integrated elements that are employed.
In all sectors of the printing industry the drivers remain pretty standard, with the intention of improving margins juxtaposing with many of the greener practices now creeping in inexorably. Not only do these elements concentrate on reduction of VOCs and emissions, the reduction of waste is becoming ever more important. As a result, fine-tuning a production line, from start to finish must be directed towards greater profitability; if each element in the process is accountable, errors are reduced, and waste is pared down to the absolute minimum.
Integration potential
In today’s market there are additional factors that need to be assessed, such as web to print storefronts and crossmedia marketing, along with efficient MIS, ERP and CRM. But, with such a proliferation of products available to all, it is not always simple to assess the effectiveness of integration, its ease of use and the practical aspects that are required if, for example, VDP or JDF compliance is required.
EFI’s move into increasing the integration potential for its users has continued throughout the year as additional, highly topical and relevant products have been brought into the company’s portfolio. Within the labelling sector, its Jetrion family of narrow web presses, all of which benefit from digital versatility and UV-curable ink technology, are designed primarily to provide converters with an effortless end to end production configuration. This starts with the inclusion of the right digital front end (DFE), in this case Fiery, so that data handling, VDP, mass customisation and RIP capabilities are incorporated into the overall fast and efficient processing of files with the assurance of powerful colour management and profiling tools.
Knowing that the correct information is being sent to the output device, whether this is to a Jetrion for label production or to a VUTEk wide format printer for short run packaging and prototyping or, even, nested labels, brings users a confidence that what they want is what they get. Removing time-consuming and error-prone manual elements from the workflow operation has been welcomed by print houses that want to automate their production processes. The reliance on using the right software leads to greater efficiencies and the ability to work to tight turnaround times and to apply a just-in-time philosophy when required.
Automation and efficiency
Efficiency doesn’t stop at the end of the production process, with streamlined MIS and ERP via browser-based software now available for SMEs up to multi-site printers and converters. For example, EFI’s Pace is a fully scalable print management system, while the company’s PrintSmith Vision also offers seamless automation, with both accommodating full customisation and future growth paths for expanding businesses.
Packaging and label specialists wanting a tailored system to integrate their business management will find that EFI’s Radius ERP/MIS concentrates on their specific needs. This is designed to streamline estimating and production workflows for labels, folding cartons and flexible packaging, with the emphasis on time savings and error reduction plus the ability to remove touch points thus generating leaner working and greater profits.
Automation and efficiency extend further with EFI’s Digital StoreFront web to print software enabling print buyers and administrators to control their jobs via customisable layouts and scalable storefronts. Users wanting a single harmonised platform can benefit from EFI’s OPS (Online Print Solutions) that supports fully integrated workflows, including MIS, ERP and CRM. Lastly, the addition of DirectSmile to the EFI portfolio now means that e-commerce and cloud-based operations are accommodated, satisfying the demand for generating stronger marketing strategies direct with clients.
Digital production of labels and packaging extends way beyond the addition of a device that removes the analogue element from the actual printing process. It is the integration of the associated elements, from start to finish, which creates the most efficient environments today and realises the criteria that most print companies and converters are seeking to achieve.
