Printer's Tip

Eliminate Hard Proofs

In today's world of rising publishing costs, magazines are looking for new ways to save time and money. One way to do this is by eliminating hard proofs.

While some publishers simply feel comfortable using conventional proofing methods, magazine production has come a long way within the last few years. Technology has been on the forefront of change, proven trustworthy again and again throughout the course of time. Just as improved technology on the printing side enabled for a complete computer-to-plate process to work to the advantage of both the publisher and the printer, software developments on the publishing side allowed PDFs to help publishers feel confident their files would print exactly as they were sent. And while it may have taken time for some to feel completely comfortable trusting these techniques, technology has shown itself loyal in both instances. If you're looking for a way to save time and money, more advances in technology means you can eliminate the need for hard proofs, and consider switching to one of these methods:

Soft proofs:
Soft proofs are single-page proofs that are viewed online, internally by proofreaders, or externally by the customer using a printer-supplied soft proofing program. If you feel the need to view a proof, this is an inexpensive option, and makes soft proofing as easy as traditional proofreading. Although time will still be spent checking proofs, money and paper waste is saved since the step of printing out and mailing a hard copy is eliminated. Soft proofing also allows for last minute addition or deletion of content, as well as a longer period of time for selling ads.

Proofless Workflows:
Even more time-efficient than soft proofs is opting for a completely proofless workflow. In proofless workflows, proofs are not printed or read; instead, the files are sent directly to be imposed and plated. Proofless workflows have several benefits to the publisher and the printer. Not only do they offer a reduction in processing time, but money is also saved on costs associated with printed proofs, postage, and proofreading. Trusting technology and switching to a proofless workflow could benefit your company by reducing production time, saving money, and cutting back on paper waste.