The traditional communication channels, such as radio, TV and printing, are being digitalised. This development is a natural result of the digitalisation of content that has been taking place since the 60s. Digital, or electronic, printing is based on computer printing methods. It is also the current trend in the traditional printing business.
As distribution channels and operators along the communication chain start operating over networks, both local and world-wide transfer of content will become possible. Content can be used in traditional media as well as in computer network communication. New trends issue new challenges to automated image and document processing and management.
Technological development breeds new modes of operation. New concepts in printing and publishing include distribute-and-print, on-demand manufacturing and network printing. The new practice of distributed customised printing is now gaining ground alongside the traditional printing and publishing centralised in printing houses. Distribution allows printing in various types of premises: schools, libraries, even private homes. Improved data communications in private homes make it possible to print documents from computers via connected printers and, in the future, from digital television. This is a novel situation as far as output methods and materials, for example, paper, as well as their use and distribution are concerned.
Electronic printing creates a market for those printing houses that can promptly provide high-quality customer services. Advertising agencies and printing houses should connect to the networked environment with an open mind and a willingness to tackle the occasional technical problems.
Together with its customers, PR INTERNATIONAL is preparing a production chain that consists of defining, collating, transferring and printing the document. The chain includes all production stages of a manual-type document complete with binding. The aim is to enable transferring the document from the customer to the printing house in electronic format and shortening the delivery times.
Sending your files across the "Net"
Send your files for printing right from your computer! There are two ways.
1. E-Mail Attachment
Just attach your Postscript file to an e-mail message and send to [email protected] Files up to 1 Mb. can be sent this way.
We recommend that you use a SLIP or PPP email program that can send a file as a separate attachment (not pasted into the body of the message) Please compress your files first.
2. FTP File Transfer
Files larger than 1 Mb. can be uploaded to our FTP site. Using your FTP client, open connection to:
(host)
(user id) anonymous
(password) [your email address]
(directory) /
From the publisher's point of view, electronic printed communication brings versatility to the content and distribution channels of printed matter. Electronic printing is a competitive method that is particularly cost-effective in small runs. it is especially well-suited for book production, where the average run size is between 1,000 and 2,000 copies.
The use of databases creates new distribution channels for the consumers, who can now print parts of the text either to their personal printers or purchase printing services from a specialised company.
The traditional book will, however, never die. New technologies guarantees the freedom of choice rather than takes