Different devices, like printers and monitors, display color in widely different ways and there are broad differences in the spectrum of color they can represent. These characteristics are known as "color spaces". The consequences of these differences to the graphics workflow in short is that what you see on a monitor is different from what comes out of a printer. Colors shift, sometimes looking completely different than intended. Matching specific colors is difficult if not impossible without some way to pull it all together.

A color management system works by profiling the color space of each input and output device and then, by using Colorsync as common ground and these profiles as a guide, the computer can make adjustments to compensate for the characteristics of each devise. In this way it can achieve, to a small degree of variation, the desired representations of color. This is called "Predictable Reliability". What you see on the monitor will match what comes out of your printer and what comes out of one printer will match what comes out of the other. Even devices in remote locations, like the proofing device at your printer, can be profiled so that you can get predictable results and even "soft proof " right at your workstation. In fact your printer may already have profiles done. All you may need to do is ask for them.

The Benefits Are:

• Time savings due to fewer corrections and re-prints, better control over design process
• Better quality through accurate color
• Much less wasted materials (ink, paper, etc.)
• Fewer out-sourced color comps
• More client satisfaction - they'll see in a proof what they ' ll get in the final.

In short, improved overall quality, efficiency and consistency of work. These goals, once illusive, are now readily obtainable to any agency that is willing the make the commitment.

Requirments:
PowerMac computers with system 8.6 or better are required. Relatively new monitors are also required. As a general rule monitors with over 5000 hours (about 3 years old) are considered too degraded for our needs. Printers will have to be periodically re-profiled and monitors periodically re-calibrated. We can teach one of your staff to do this or we can provide that service on an ongoing basis. Consistency is also important. Changes in ambient light, colored light reflective surfaces, replacement paper, inks and toners will all play a role in your end results. Even changes in humidity can effect color output, particularly with laser printers.