Linda Zebian writes in Folio that even though virtual proofing has eased the proofing process - dropped logos, color checks, font corruption and 92 megabyte files stuck in broadband black holes can still hinder a publisher's workflow. She writes that "production staffers are dropping their prepress houses, bringing high-quality printers in-house and asking for bundled prepress packages from their print suppliers. And for some, Web-based technology offerings from vendors new to the market are looking more and more like the best option."

HIGHLIGHTS

- Color and content continue to be the most pressing issues.

- Virtual proofing frequently is the solution for high costs and production scheduling problems.

- Dumping your prepress house for a newer, sexier proofer or color printer is all the rage for smaller and mid-sized publishers.