Addresses changing dynamics in packaging production 

October 19th, 2016 -- As demand for smaller, often versioned lots and faster time to market continues to grow, brand owners, agencies and packaging converters alike are looking for ways to take time and touches out of the packaging workflow. They are interested in increased automation and solutions that improve the quality of the packaging while keeping costs in line. This latest WhatTheyThink white paper, sponsored by Kodak, discusses the Top 5 ways that packaging workflow can be automated to make the process as streamlined and cost-effective as possible without any compromise in quality.

“We are pleased to be partnering with Kodak to make this important white paper available to our audience,” said Eric Vessels, President, WhatTheyThink. “Businesses across the spectrum of the packaging industry will find valuable insight that can quickly be translated to more efficient operations as they think about their future.”

As the white paper says, generating award-winning packaging and staying competitive in this complex market require a systematic approach. While it is possible to incorporate one or two of the ideas presented in this white paper into a workflow, the ideal approach is to use the full array of software components in combination with high quality imaging technology in order to ensure competitive advantage.

The Top 5 Things to Automate include:

1. Begin at the Beginning. By implementing prepress portals and web-to-print storefronts, packaging converters make it easier for their brand owner customers to submit jobs both large and small.
2. Automating Packaging Layout Creation. By automating this function, users can save up to two hours per job and make more efficient use of expensive substrates.
3. Optimizing Color. Increasingly, packaging operations are taking advantage of the benefits of fixed color palette printing using a fixed set of up to seven inks, typically CMYK plus orange, green and violet or blue.
4. Task-Based Management of the Creative Workflow. Without adequate project management, employees will work less efficiently and there is more risk of errors, print delays and rework, all of which adds up to missed deadlines and increased costs.
5. Managing Color Relationships. Color that does not meet brand owner expectations is the primary reason for rejects and rework.

The white paper is available for download here:

http://whattheythink.com/whitepapers/top-5-packaging-workflow-automation.cfm

About Kodak

Kodak is a technology company focused on imaging. We provide – directly and through partnerships with other innovative companies – hardware, software, consumables and services to customers in graphic arts, commercial print, publishing, packaging, electronic displays, entertainment and commercial films, and consumer products markets. With our world-class R&D capabilities, innovative solutions portfolio and highly trusted brand, Kodak is helping customers around the globe to sustainably grow their own businesses and enjoy their lives. For additional information on Kodak, visit us at kodak.com, follow us on Twitter @Kodak, or like us on Facebook at Kodak. 

About WhatTheyThink

WhatTheyThink is the printing and publishing industry's leading media organization. We offer a wide range of publications that deliver unbiased, real-time market intelligence, industry news, economic and trend analysis, peer-to-peer communication, and special reports on emerging technology and critical events. Special interest sections include Economics, Data Analysis, Wide Format, Labels & Packaging, Production Inkjet and Print Software.

WhatTheyThink hosts webinars and live events as well as providing content through a syndication program, delivering content directly to related websites. In addition, WhatTheyThink offers a wide range of lead generation and branding programs that help print- and publishing-related companies achieve business growth.