Discussion

By John Clifford on Feb 06, 2015

While this is interesting, packaging is usually dealing with spot colors where color control is easier than converting color spaces as is done in process printing. My recollection is that the original "rant" had more to do with the problems with color management and reproduction across multiple platforms such as proofing devices, presses, and the designer's monitors. Any good news on that front?

By Mike Strickler on Feb 06, 2015

I think you're right, John. The rant was about color management implementation in general, not the subset involved in reproducing spot colors. Frank seems correct when one merely observes typical CM implementation in most design studios and too many prepress departments, but the conclusion is wrong. We have had for some years all the tools we need to maintain consistent color appearance across multiple devices and from soft and hard proofs in design to final press output, all based in a common colorimetric language. The real question should be why these tools are so seldom correctly or consistently implemented.

By John Clifford on Feb 10, 2015

But from an educator's standpoint it's still an issue as to "what do I teach?" It's still the standard for advertising (as noted by Time, Inc's requirements) that ads should be PDF/X-1a. This standard does not allow ICC profiles or color management. Even when talking about going to press, some printers have fully implemented color management, while others haven't. And those that have implemented don't always do it correctly. So what do I tell students about how they should design and what they should expect? Always the dilemma.