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    January 18, 2025

    Indigo Roadmap Items

    Roadmap for Implementing Color Matching Quality Control for Indigo Presses

    Goal: Establish a comprehensive color-matching quality control system for Indigo Presses utilizing Print Inspector for process control and ChromaChecker Capture for spot color matching.

    Assumptions:

    • Indigo Presses are stable and consistent as reported in Print Inspector.
    • Necessary hardware (ChromaChecker Capture with spot instrument) is available.
    • Access to press serial numbers and API keys/secrets for authentication.

    Prep Items:

    • Gather Press Information:
      • Collect press serial numbers for all relevant Indigo Presses.
      • Obtain API keys and authentication secrets with Print Inspector and ChromaChecker Capture.
    • Software Installation & Setup:
      • Install ChromaChecker Capture software on the designated workstation.
      • Calibrate and profile the spot instrument used with ChromaChecker Capture according to manufacturer instructions.

    Implementation Items:

    • Instrument Baselining:

      • Perform an initial baselining of the spot instrument in ChromaChecker Capture.
      • Establish a regular monthly re-baseline schedule to ensure the instrument's consistency.
    • Process Color Conformance:

      • Determine Reference Aim: Define the target color appearance (e.g., industry standards, brand guidelines).
      • Determine Substrate: Identify and document all substrates used in production.
      • Determine Tolerance: Establish acceptable color deviation limits for each substrate and application.
      • Determine Control Strip: Design and implement a standardized control strip for each substrate, including process color patches.
      • Determine Measurement Workflow:
        • Define the process for measuring color on the control strip (e.g., using a densitometer, or spectrophotometer).
        • Implement a standardized data collection and analysis method.
    • Spot Color Conformance:

      • Determine Reference Colors:
        • Define and create a comprehensive Master Color Library within ChromaChecker Capture.
        • Include all standard spot colors used by the press.
        • Measure and record the spectral data of each color using the spot instrument.
        • Consider creating libraries for both spot and simulated spot colors.
      • Determine Substrate: Identify and document all substrates used for spot color printing.
      • Determine Tolerance: Establish acceptable color deviation limits for each spot color on each substrate.
      • Determine Measurement: Define whether to measure single colors or a control strip containing spot and/or process colors.
        • Determine the appropriate measurement workflow (e.g., using ChromaChecker Capture, spectrophotometer).

    Color Matching & Production

    • Process Color Conformance:

      • Roll Out to Suppliers: Communicate color standards and measurement protocols to all relevant suppliers.
      • Check Connectivity: Ensure seamless data exchange and communication between all stakeholders (printers, designers, suppliers).
      • Establish Reporting Guidelines: Define clear reporting guidelines, including timing, frequency, and the scope of data to be collected and analyzed.
    • Spot Color Conformance:

      • Roll Out Color Library to Designers:
        • Provide designers with the Master Color Library in a usable format (e.g., Pantone Color Books, digital swatch libraries).
        • Train designers on how to use the library and export named colors correctly.
      • Roll Out to Suppliers:
        • Provide suppliers with the Master Color Library and instructions on how to use Color Match Scan (or similar tools) to build Spot Color Look-Up Tables.
        • Implement a system to verify that suppliers are matching spot colors to brand tolerances.
      • Deploy Projects: Integrate color management protocols into all production projects.
      • Check Connectivity: Ensure seamless data exchange and communication between the PSP (Print Service Provider) and the brand.
      • Establish Reporting Guidelines: Define clear reporting guidelines, including timing, frequency, and the scope of data to be collected and analyzed.

    Monitoring & Maintenance:

    • Regularly monitor press performance and color consistency using Print Inspector and associated Dashboards.
    • Define periodic color checks using ChromaChecker Capture to verify color accuracy and identify any deviations.
    • Establish a regular schedule for visual inspections of printed output by a qualified color expert.
    • Update color libraries, and refine LUTs to maintain optimal color quality.
    • Implement a system for tracking and documenting all color-related adjustments and their impact on print quality.
    • Continuously review and refine the color management system based on data analysis and feedback.

    Benefits:

    • Improved color accuracy and consistency across all Indigo Presses.
    • Reduced waste and rework due to color discrepancies.
    • Enhanced customer satisfaction through improved print quality.
    • Increased efficiency and productivity in the print production process.
    • Data-driven approach to color management enables proactive adjustments and continuous improvement.
    • Reduced environmental impact due to decreased waste from color errors.

    Contact ChromaChecker Support

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