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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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