Hybrid proofing: Finding the hard-copy, soft-copy middle ground

Dec 1, 2007 12:00 PM, By Trevor Haworth

Once the gold standard — and still preferred by some in the marketplace — hard proofing technology now is challenged by the virtual option, which many tout as more environmentally friendly, efficient and cost effective. As the discussion continues, one thing is certain: There is a strong need for both. In fact, publishing professionals are beginning to discover they do not have to choose either hard or soft copy proofing technology.

Enter hybrid proofing, a solution that combines the tried and true hard copy proofing process with the efficient virtual technology.

The key is determining the right proofing solution. It's important that a hybrid solution have a parallel, color-managed workflow to deliver accurate and repeatable results in a hard or soft proof. With soft proofing, the green benefits are obvious: elimination of paper and ink and reduced shipping costs. But green benefits can be achieved with hard proof, as well; high-quality output and color consistency can result in a substantial reduction of paper, ink and press time.

Will hybrid proofing alone result in a greener environment? Probably not, but just like making your home more environmentally friendly, taking incremental steps like implementing hybrid proofing can have a large cumulative impact.

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Trevor Haworth is CEO of CGS Publishing Technologies, provider of ORIS Hybrid Proof. Conctact him at (612) 870-0061 or visit www.cgs.de.

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