Controlling and optimising colour quality is a key function of print, ever more important as brands invest more in their design. Tools and systems to ensure quality and consistency have developed far beyond individual skilled personnel to become an integral part of workflow systems.

Managing and controlling colour is big business, with companies now offering measuring tools and control systems, and third parties providing accreditation to standard printing conditions.

Increasingly, the cloud is being used to define and manage colours. Standardised print is commoditised, with print companies producing high volumes effectively at low cost. This has helped print managers take volume, to the chagrin of many print producers.