Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Alcom recently teamed up with Printing Industries of America to attain the qualification and implementation of G7 methodology. The methodology enables printers to improve the visual similarity between a proof and printed sheet and between printed sheets from different presses. The method depends primarily on defining and using gray balance to control images.

G7 methodology is an asset for printers looking to keep up with the high standards of their customers while maintaining consistency throughout the printing process. Assistant chairman and chief operating officer of Alcom, Douglas Yeager, says, "We're looking for ways to add value to our processes and products, and completing the certification in G7 is one example. Its use will provide customers with the highest level of color consistency possible."

Dr. Mark Bohan, vice president, technology and research at Printing Industries of America, echoes the benefits of G7, saying, "The use of specifications and standards is improving the quality and consistency of print to customers, and we are committed to helping printers implement these types of solutions. I am excited with the positive outcome achieved at Alcom."

To become a G7 printer, Alcom required the assistance of a certified expert to verify that the equipment meets the G7 methodology as well as running the company through a strict training program. For this, they turned to Printing Industries of America, who administered a training program and verified that Alcom's equipment is capable of meeting the requirements. Douglas Yeager said, "Printing Industries of America was a great help to us because they understand the technical process so well. In fact, after reaching G7 qualification, they smoothly transitioned into helping us achieve the ISO 12647-2 print standard."

In addition to helping printers achieve G7 qualification and meeting ISO 12647-2 standards, Printing Industries assists printers in setting up procedures and methodology to meet GRACoL guidelines and print specifications. It also tests inks, ensuring they meet the ISO 2846 ink standard, a requirement for both ISO 12647 and G7. Certificates of compliance are provided to companies able to demonstrate that they meet G7 and ISO 12647 specific color management requirements.

Alcom is an integrated marketing company located 45 minutes outside of Philadelphia in Harleysville, Pennsylvania. They provide clients with commercial print, direct mail marketing, and business development solutions using proven integrated cross-media strategies.