ALEXANDRIA, VA (May 27, 2003) – A new study links profit leaders with successful implementation of digital workflow and adoption of digital imaging. Published by the Graphic Arts Marketing Information Service (GAMIS), a special interest group of Graphic Arts Technical Foundation and Printing Industries of America, Inc., Direct Digital Imaging reports on the digital transmutation of print and provides an understanding of direct imaging market dynamics. Digital imaging technologies have been commercially available for 7 to 10 years, depending upon the specific product. Yet research conducted for GAMIS by PrintCom Consulting Group in Waxhaw, North Carolina revealed that the industry lags in adopting digital imaging workflow and implementing its technology. Of the 32,970 plants estimated to have use for the technology, only approximately 23% have adopted more than an imagesetter. The study reports the number of plants using some form of CTP imaging output devices (except imagesetters) in 2002 as follows: Computer-to-Poly 3,100 Computer-to-CTP metal 3,730 DI Press 930 In addition to exploring the reality of implementation and application of imaging technology in the printing industry, Direct Digital Imaging offers insight into the printer’s decision-making process to adopt digital imaging technology by providing examples and case histories. The study closes with an outlook for imaging equipment and materials. It predicts that the lack of growth in print volume will inhibit the purchase of direct digital imaging equipment and materials for the next four years. "Still, to survive, printers must improve productivity and reduce costs while decreasing turnaround time. As the profit leaders have shown, digital imaging technology and digital workflow addresses all of these market demands," says Jackie Bland, GAMIS executive director. "These benefits will drive the market for digital devices." Direct Digital Imaging is one of five research studies that GAMIS provides free to its members this year. For information about GAMIS membership, contact Ms. Bland by phoning 703-519-8179 or by emailing [email protected]. Membership information is also available at www.gamis.org.