Previously, Mike Todryk provided a 10 minute tip that didn't require buying any software. This time Pat McGrew is recommending that you make use of software you likely already own. "Just about every shop has a preflight tool installed, but they are often the least used piece of software." How often do files come in that won't run smoothly through your production workflow? Fixing those files up front can save more than 10 minutes of waiting for missing resources or job rework due to mistakes in the file. Preflight software analyzes the contents of a PDF, or other compatible file type, to validate its readiness for print production based on standards you select or define. It can check for missing or corrupted assets and for assets that are no longer suitable. The latter can be important for companies who have upgraded to a significantly higher resolution press and may have older, low-res resources that will print poorly and, in the case of barcodes, potentially be rendered unusable. Preflight can also identify issues with ink coverage, PDF/filetype version compatibility, out-of-gamut colors and more. Some tools can also fix some of the problems without reverting to the customer. No one wants to go back to the customer. Pat recommends, "Make preflight part of job onboarding, prepress, and just before print. Get your team on board by adding some money to a fund to support the next employee even for every file that goes through preflight!" You could throw a lot of parties with the money you save from cutting 10 minutes of downtime per shift! Can't quite picture how that works? Our downtime calculator puts hard numbers around the benefits of eliminating sources of idle press time measured in minutes per shift and dollars per year. Check it out to see how 10 minutes could save you 100k or more. Also check out previous tips from Jeff Matos of Broadridge and Lois Ritarossi of High Rock Strategies)

Stay tuned for more 10 minute tips. Have an idea? Get in touch.