Discussion

By Roland Ortbach on Jan 12, 2012

No one can deny that digital printing makes a lot of sense for many applications today. However, despite this increased use, the core printing process is still (at least for now) offset when considering total print volume,in North America as well as globally. Gravure and flexo processes also account for a major portion of the total print volume. It is somewhat misleading when this fact is not mentioned in an article of this type.

I would like to see current and estimated future volume of digitaly printed pages as part of a larger picture that would include total print volume (including all current processes)in article of this type to keep things in their proper perspective.

By Paul Edwards on Jan 12, 2012

Wasn't the 'last' Drupa, the inkjet Drupa?

By Michael Born on Jan 13, 2012

Roland, I agree with you 1000%.

By James Barnett on Jan 13, 2012

Barb's article is right on. It is not about print volume, it is about applications and fulfilling the needs of the customer. This is where digital shines along with its 40% margin. Employement in the print industry has been reduced by 38% over the last eight years and half the print shops are gone or merged. Successful printers understand that they are in the business of communications, not print. They are providing print as the core media along with other cross media to help their customers communicate. It is all about providing solutions to the customer's problems thereby helping the customer acheive their goals. Printers who do this will grow. Now the hard part: 1. learn about the customer's situation 2. understand their problems 3. uncover their needs 4. provide solutions for their specific needs that actually solve real business problems. Sales order taking has to migrate to sales consulting.

By Rossitza Sardjeva on Jan 15, 2012

Drupa 2012 is predicted to be for second time InkJet drupa......