4/2/01 - According to TrendWatch, 59% of printers, the single-sheet proof (Matchprint, Cromalin, etc.) is the #1 preferred method for proofing "critical color" jobs. But for proofing "pleasing color" jobs, color inkjet printers and PDF or Quark files attached to E-mail are the top proofing methods. Fact: customers choose if they need "critical" or "good enough" color proofing methods. Sure, creatives and printers have some influence, but customers define quality -- always have and always will. The growth in "pleasing color" is big and so is demand for its proofing media such as PDF/Quark attachments to E-mails and desktop inkjet prints. Is critical color in critical condition? Well, it depends on whom you ask (we always like that "safe" answer!). In this age of cross media, when the printing press is only one of several different possible output media, "good enough" color is swiftly becoming...well...good enough most of the time -- especially as print continues its shift from the printing press to the desktop. This is terrific news if you're selling inkjet printers, but bad news if you're selling high-end color management solutions.