Let’s start by breaking down the title of this post. “The Future” implies that past brand color management practices have not delivered desired outcomes – true. “Brand Color” refers to the precise color the brand owner is expecting to be reproduced regardless of substrate, print process or geographic location. “Management” is the meat of this post, I will show how to manage the expectations of the brand owner, so as to under promise and over deliver on color reproductions expectations.

Existing Color Systems = Fail

Existing color categorization and naming systems have failed our industry and in fact created unmanageable brand owner color expectations. Designers work with swatch books that may or may not be in good condition printed on a substrate that probably has no similarity to the substrate the printer will be asked to produce the work on. Worse yet, the designer calls up a “347 Red” in Photoshop and think it looks “just right” on their un-calibrated monitor. At some point downstream a printer will be asked to produce this completely unidentifiable color.

There’s a better way

Creation of a database of color produced on the correct substrate with ink for the desired printing process. In other words, a database of colors that are actually achievable on press. Creating a database of this magnitude is no small endeavor but it’s also no longer a pipe dream. With the support and sponsorship of a ColorMetrix client just such a database is now a reality. It’s now easy for supply chain members to request a search of the database for an existing “real” color on the correct substrate with the correct ink.

The solution in a nut shell

A centralized color database facilitates accurate color communication throughout the supply chain. By utilizing internet technology the exact same color information is made available to brand owners, prepress vendors, printers and ink suppliers. Duplicate colors can be consolidated with search technologies, thus simplifying paperwork and job preparation. Such a system allows the color (brand) owner to approve a color and then know that prepress vendors, ink suppliers and printers are all using the correct color information. The ultimate goal of a centralized color database is to provide the brand owner with piece of mind that the color information is being communicated correctly from design to finished product. In addition, ink savings are typically realized because fewer colors need to be maintained and there is less chance of the wrong color making it to press with the entire supply chain looking at the same information.

While existing color measurement and verification tools “sort of” work there are problems. The lack of systems being able to use a single spectral reference value and then easily share color information (via API or applications programmers interface) back and forth diminishes the effectiveness. By utilizing cloud computing based systems these limitations can be overcome.

Please feel free to contact us for information on how we are delivering the future of brand color management today.

At the IPA Technical conference earlier this Summer a longtime customer informed me he’s still using software I thought he’d long abandoned. This customer has not renewed support or contacted us in anyway for more than three years. I then asked Rick jokingly if maybe ColorMetrix software is too good?

Not the first time this has happened. Recently another customer contacted me with a similar story. Paul actually uses the software with an instrument that is not even sold anymore and soon will not be supported by the manufacturer.

What’s the common thread? There are probably several factors but I suspect the key piece of the puzzle is the ColorMetrix color verification and process control solution continues to deliver value. We do this in several ways.

Stable reliable supported (when/if they need it) software. The ColorMetrix codebase has been continuously developed, enhanced and improved for sixteen years. There is a saying that there is no such thing as software without bugs but instead software in which all the bugs have yet to be found. There are just are not that many bugs left to be found in a stable mature product. Do you really want the bleeding (and often breaking) edge in your production environments?

Historical data. The information a process control solution provides is only as good as the data in the system. Start-up a new process control system and it will be a year before you have a years worth of historical data. I know sounds simple but sometimes people look past the simple when making a decision to change. Some of our customers are using proofing devices five years old or more. The ability to look back at the color data for a device and check for consistency and trends often helps justify the purchase of replacement equipment.

Economics. I’m not actually talking about the tough economic times the printing industry has been hit with. I’m sure that’s a factor but instead I’m talking about the investment in time to properly setup and configure a process control solution. The cost of the software is small when compared to the investment in time to learn how to use the system, setup your baselines and collect enough historical data for the system to be useful.

So, is ColorMetrix software too good? No, we prefer to think it’s just right. We will also continue to improve our products each year moving forward just as we have for the past sixteen. What will be changing and improving our support. Not the high level telephone and email support you have come to expect from us. That’s staying the same. What we are working on is a ColorMetrix Support Community. As a customer with an active support subscription you will gain access to a unique on-line space where you will be able to interact with other ColorMetrix Users. Sort of a virtual users group in addition to the face to face users group meeting we are planning for later this year or early next year.

Make sure to signup for our email newsletter so we can keep you informed as the support community is built.

Photo Credit

At least that’s what we call it in the online biz.

The site has a whole new look. There is lots of work left to be done but if you have found your way here and have comments on the new look please let us know what you think by leaving a comment on this post.

Thanks!

Golden Nugget #5 Density & TVI or L*a*b* originally appeared on JimRaffel [dot] com in 2005. the topic is one that still comes up frequently in conversations with customers.

I settled on the topic of using Density & TVI vs. L*a*b* to evaluate the difference between inkjet proofs and press sheets not only because it came up several times this week, but it keeps coming up every week in on-site visits and telephone support calls. This topic stems from the reality that densitometers use very specific filters defined by international standards to measure the CMYK ink set. These filters are tuned to the spectral response of the process color ink set. The inks used in ink jet printers do not have the same spectral response as the CMYK inks used on printing presses in our industry.

So, while the solid color bar patches of CMYK on the proof and press sheet look visually the same to our human eye (capable of seeing the entire visual spectrum at all times), they can and often do look considerably different to a device which simply has three filters (utilized to filter the visual spectrum into thirds). This also means that any value derived from a potentially flawed density value (i.e. – Dot Area, Dot Gain-TVI if you prefer, Print contrast, Trap, etc…) are equally unreliable as evaluation tools concerning the match of an ink jet proof and a press sheet.

I have seen time and time again in the field inkjet proofs that do not visually match, but have density and TVI values within tolerance (we have seen the reverse also). As recently as last year I know of at least one inkjet proofing manufacturer who still utilized density trends to verify proof consistency over time. One of our mutual customers complained to me that while the manufacturer’s software and ColorMetrix both reported the proofs being in specification, the visual variation was not acceptable. I asked them to view the trending data in Delta E, and was not surprised to hear them say that shifts or 6-8 Delta E (CIE L*a*b*) in the balanced 3 color grays appeared to be the norm not the exception.

So, is there any value in measuring the density of inkjet proofs? I am not convinced there is. On the other hand, since it is easy to collect and store the data, why not do so. Also, one of my customers pointed out to me this week that they monitor Magenta density of their inkjet proofing system to catch changed changes in ambient conditions like humidity and temperature. While I have not seen this first hand, I am told by the customer that they can get shifts of .07 in Magenta, and still have Delta E variation of less than 3.5 (acceptable level for this instillation). But the movement in the Magenta density warns them they are having humidity problems that could cause the production of bad proofs soon.

The above example is what process control is all about. If you do not measure it, you can not control it. Then, when problems do occur you can go back and look for shifts in the measurements. After identifying a key metric, as our customer above did, you can add that to your daily monitoring, and improve quality and productivity while at the same time reducing waste.

If you enjoy this type of content please consider signing up for our RSS feed or to receive updates via email.

Color & The State of Printing Industry 2010 was originally published on JimRaffel [dot] com on January 1st of this year. We are working on a private community where more content of this nature will be available exclusively for our customers. Sign up for our RSS feed to stay informed of the progress.

It never ceases to amaze me how integral color knowledge is to the graphic arts industry at large, yet how few people in the industry really understand the topic. The problem is that color, like the game of chess, is very easy to learn and almost impossible to master. I believe this is because true color knowledge requires solid math skills. Color Science, after all, is applied physics.

In 2010 and beyond, the printing companies that thrive (profit leaders) will be leaders in color knowledge and implementation. For example, the GRACoL G7 methodology is the practical application of color science to achieve a more consistent and predictable print result regardless of where the digital files are converted to ink on substrate. Gee, sounds like a Real, Authentic & Sustainable way to reduce waste and increase productivity.

A significant advantage ink on substrate has over other information delivery methods is color vibrancy and consistency. Sure my iPod Touch, my Blackberry, my computer screen, and my TV screen can all deliver amazing and eye catching visual messages, but how consistent is the color fidelity of the same message delivered to multiple devices? (It was a rhetorical question, but the answer is awful).

On the other hand, you can produce a corporate color like “Coke Red” on just about any substrate anywhere in the world if you choose to do so, and I wrote about it here. The printing industry also has the capability to create amazing color messages by utilizing interesting combinations of unique spot colors. The key again is you can control the color and consistency of these colors like no other medium that is delivered to the general public.

The color challenge I issue for 2010 is twofold. First, invest the resources necessary to become a high level practitioner of color science, or provide the means for someone in your organization to do so. Second, keep your eyes open for projects that benefit from the delivery of a high level of color fidelity and color consistency to the general public. Go after these projects with a vengeance selling the benefits that you as a printer can provide over any other message delivery method!

Since a picture is worth a thousand words than this post is more than 2000 words long.

The short version: I shared my knowledge of color and measurement thereof. Now, when Translator lands work at big consumer products or beverage company (and they will) who’s solution for verified color do you think then will suggest when the topic comes up (and it will)? How powerful is social media and community now?

ColorMetrix is a virtual company. We have no physical office in the traditional sense. My business partner Michael Litscher and I work from our homes. We employee 1099 contractors for software development, administrative tasks and even sales assistance. The business climate of the last eighteen months has validated this business model to the extreme.

Fresh thinking can be a challenge for a virtual company. You wake up each day and dig into the work that needs doing. There is plenty of that. Customers to take care of. Sales to be wrangled. Trips to be planned. Bills to be paid. You get the idea. Sometimes ideation takes a back seat and a lack of new ideas will be the death of any company in the long run.

Enter Translator Digital Cafe lab hours. Translator is a new company formed by three seasoned veterans of the creative agency space (check out their web-site for more info on that). Every Tuesday and Thursday in the space above my friend Joe Sorge’s restaurant Swig (great place to eat if you are ever in Milwaukee by the way), they conduct “lab hours.” Somehow I was lucky enough to be invited to attend (can’t even remember how anymore). I figured it was a one-time thing. Get to know each other and see where we might be able to help each other out in the future.

Lab hours is a growing community. In addition to being seasoned veterans Mark, Cindi and Andy also get the convergence of the on-line and off-line worlds (Mark and I even smell print samples together – you ink on paper people get it I know you do). Anyway, I digress…now, when I get the chance to attend lab hours there are often five six or more of us there. “Lab hours” is really code for a community of peers getting together to help each other.

Help comes in many shapes and sizes. I brought along a pound of coffee once and am contributing some ceramic coffee mugs to the effort. These guys on the other hand, have helped me expand and understand some of my own efforts in the on-line space. Who knows maybe I have added something to the mix with business knowledge and some understanding of the printing aspects of the off-line space. I’m much better at understanding the knowledge I have walked away with and it’s priceless.

Getting ready for a demo. Recently, I was getting ready for a demo I was headed to after lab hours. I guess I take all my gear for granted. If one understands the world or print, yet has never seen a color bar scanned with an EyeOne and our super duper cool ProofPass.com, then I guess it seems “shiny.”

That’s all I’ve got. Hopefully the pictures fill in any blanks. Just remember to keep sharing your message and listening to that of others. Community is just that plus helping others when you can.

This is based upon a past post at JimRaffel[dot]com: #16 Matamerism & Color Management (yes, with spelling error – that’s another story).

Let’s take a look at the visual spectrum and some of the different ways we work with the spectrum on an everyday basis in our industry.

Spectral curve of different light sources

For our discussion Metamerism is…

When two color samples appear to match under a particular light source, and then do not match under a different light source, this is an example of “sample metamerism.” One can conclude that the spectral reflectance distributions of the two samples differ, and their plotted reflectance curves cross in at least 2 regions.

The next image shows 3 examples of the GATF/RHEM Light Indicator which is printed with 2 magenta colorants which are a metameric pair. In this case when viewed under proper graphic arts lighting (5000K), the two colorants appear the same color. When viewed under other light sources you can see the two different colorants.

The RHEM indicator is a great tool, because it comes in rolls with self adhesive backing, so one can purchase them from GATF, and attach them to color proofs going out to a customer. If the customer is complaining about color a simple question about the appearance of the indicator will let you know if they are viewing the proof in 5000K lighting.

Color Management is one solution to the metamerism that exists between ink jet proofing ink and media combinations, and pressroom ink and paper combinations.

Color Management also solves the problem of soft proofing metamerism that exists because of the way displays (CRT or LCD) are illuminated. Without Color Management there would be virtually no way to match ink jet or soft proofing devices to ink on paper printing presses. Because these colorants are metameric it is increasingly important that all viewing of color occur under proper 5000K lighting.

West Chester, OH; May 2010—Color-Logic has announced that ColorMetrix Technologies is now a Color-Logic Certified Technology Partner and is fully qualified to assist printers in implementing the Color-Logic Process Metallic Color System™ for offset printing.

Announcing the ColorMetrix relationship, Color-Logic Sales and Marketing Director Mark Geeves said: “Process control is very important to any printing process—even the simple and easy-to-use Color-Logic Process Metallic Color System for offset printing.  ColorMetrix has an exceptional record in providing color assistance to printers, and we are pleased to certify them as the first Color-Logic Technology Partner.  The process consistency provided by Color-Logic Certified Technology Partners ensures designers, brand managers, and agencies that special effects and specific metallic spot colors can be reproduced time and time again.”

Jim Raffel, ColorMetrix CEO and Cofounder, added: “I have been involved in controlling color for print for more than 25 years, and the special effects created with just one additional color using the Color-Logic system are incredible.  In the tests we conducted, the solid ink density of the Color-Logic Silver Inks measured 0.30 to 0.35 Status T in the solid area—which means this ink mileage is much greater than metallics I have measured in the past.”

ColorMetrix Technologies assists printers and their service providers in achieving optimum results through scientific color management.  For additional information, visit www.colormetrix.com.

Color-Logic™ develops color communication systems and software tool sets for a variety of special effect printing applications.  Color-Logic provides brand owners, product managers, corporations, and their advertising agencies the ability to differentiate themselves and their clients with a simple print production process that yields dramatic results.  Color-Logic special effects utilize the existing workflows of printers and designers, yielding dynamic results without the use of special equipment.  Color-Logic supports the value of print and works with designers and printers to enhance their printed media.  For more information, visit www.color-logic.com or call 513-258-0047.
- End -

6/7/2010 – Technical Conference IDEAlliance + IPA Jim Raffel will be part of the 2:15pm Lighting Round: Advances in Color Quality Control. With John Sweeney of Fine Eye Color it promises to be an energetic hour. Please come join us!

This post will give you a glimpse of what is going on behind the scenes are ColorMetrix. We’ve been very busy in 2010 and thought you might like a transparent look at what we have been up to.

This Week I was in Las Vegas at the Info*Flex show. While we didn’t have a booth I walked the floor speaking with partners and resellers and customers I ran into. It was great seeing everyone and spending time with both the Color Management Group folks.

Verified Color. Everytime. Everywhere. – is our new tag line. We have begun using it our web-site and in customer communication. In four words (OK, it should be five but I think Everytime looks better than Every Time) it conveys what we do and the direction we are headed. We had some other good ideas for the tag line and are thinking about running a survey for fun. If you are customers pick one of the other ones we liked we may switch to it or have an organic tag line that changes frequently.

The ProofPasss client software application is undergoing a rewrite of the local database functionality. While we aren’t positive every indication is that this should resolve many of the stability issues some users with large databases have been experiencing. The server side also has some new features and more on the way. Make sure to poke around or give us a call. We’d be happy to talk anytime about how you can fully utilize ProofPass to achieve Verified Color. Everytime. Everywhere.

Our new (as yet unnamed product – which in many ways is ProofPass 2.0) is progressing well. The development thus far has been in conjunction with the first customer for the product. The focus of this internet based color database is similar to ProofPass but in many ways is infinitely more flexible. Over the last 18 months we have built a great foundation for true Verified Color. Anytime. Anywhere. We are now working with other software developers to make sure the system is open and has an easy to access API.

I’m planning a behind the scenes post every month or so. Let me know if you like this style post and what other information you might like to see. Comments are open so jump into the conversation!