ImagesMagUK_February_2022

www.images-magazine.com FEBRUARY 2022 images 35 TIPS & TECHNIQUES custom print templates, true shape job nesting, automated ink removal features and other automation-related tools. Web2print integration If you’re not already running an online store, you probably will be soon. It is essential, therefore, that you select a RIP software package that can easily integrate with the content management system/ shopping cart/ecommerce you are currently using or want to use. The RIP you choose should be able to fit nicely into your online fulfilment workflow. It needs to be able to provide an automated process by being able to access all uploaded jobs, direct them to the appropriate production station, apply all required pre-flight attributes and then print them with little or no human intervention. Not all RIP software packages are created equal so ensure you consider all of these key points when making an investment decision that can help shape the future of your business for years to come. The entire production cycle begins with the software you use and the proper choice will provide an immediate return. www.cadlink.com Job preparation tools Many print jobs require some sort of pre-production modification to ensure top-quality results – whether it is an issue with the actual design file or the need for some type of pre-flight adjustment, often the file does not arrive as ‘ready to print’. Many RIP software packages do not include the tools required to make these changes and so in order to modify files, print producers are required to be experts in a variety of design applications that, while being very good, in most cases do not include the tools required to modify designs for specific digital print production needs. Some RIP software packages now include pre-flight tools either related to production or design modifications. Choosing a RIP that can accomplish these tasks will eliminate the need to use third-party software apps to do this. Workflow automation Selecting a software package that is able to grow with your business is a decision that needs to be made early on. Look for a solution that includes features such as the ability to automatically sort jobs by production type, multiple queues, barcode support, the ability to create all the latest printers as well as a wide variety of manufacturers. This will ensure that as new print technology is made available your production software is able to support it. Multiple application support Generally, with most printers comes a ‘free in the box’ software application – usually either Windows drivers or limited functionality RIP software packages – that supports it. The problem with this is that each printer manufacturer will offer a unique package alongside the device. If a shop runs multiple production stations using different printers or production applications, its team will have a large variety of print software applications to learn, support and upgrade. The applications will also not provide a common workflow model amongst them, which makes it difficult for a business to standardise the production process. Look for a RIP software product that works with as many of your print applications (ie direct-to-garment, toner transfer, sublimation printing, UV printing, etc) as possible and stick to a single software vendor whenever this is feasible.