AI-Driven Innovation: Transforming the Print Industry
At the recent FESPA Global Print Expo in Berlin, Lisa Brown and Johnny Shell of Keypoint Intelligence presented a compelling session titled “AI-Driven Innovation: Transforming the Print Industry.” Known for over six decades as the industry’s trusted resource for unbiased information, Keypoint Intelligence showcased how artificial intelligence (AI) is already reshaping the print value chain, from design to production and beyond.
Why AI—and Why Keypoint?
Keypoint Intelligence is a pioneer in independent lab testing and market research for the digital imaging ecosystem. With AI emerging as a transformative force in the print industry, Keypoint’s research highlights its practical applications, emphasizing real-world performance and business outcomes.
Lisa Brown and Johnny Shell provided a detailed roadmap of AI’s impact across the print lifecycle, demonstrating how it addresses key industry challenges such as skill shortages, price pressure, quality control, and sustainability.
AI Across the Print Lifecycle
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Design
Generative AI tools are accelerating the journey from concept to proof while ensuring brand-color integrity. These tools empower designers to create high-quality visuals faster, reducing time-to-market. -
Pre-Press
Smart file optimization uses AI to fine-tune color profiles, resolution, and layouts based on the substrate. This is particularly beneficial for fabric printers dealing with diverse material variables, ensuring consistent quality across different media. - Production
AI-driven job-routing software optimizes production by analyzing real-time press loads and deadlines. It assigns jobs to the most suitable device, ensuring target quality and turnaround times are met. Additionally, AI-based predictive maintenance monitors component wear, alerting engineers before critical failures occur, thus minimizing unplanned downtime.
Real-World Impact: A Digital Textile Case Study
Keypoint highlighted a digital textile case study where AI automation reduced design-to-print cycles by up to 50% and color mismatches by 70%. Embedded analytics in industrial print devices now alert operators to potential faults via mobile notifications, transforming unexpected downtime into scheduled maintenance.
Sustainability and AI
Sustainability was a key theme at FESPA, and Keypoint demonstrated how AI contributes to greener practices. AI-powered forecasting enables “just-in-time” inventory management, reducing waste from unused ink and fabric. Computer-vision quality control detects defects early, preventing defective products from leaving the production line.
Addressing Industry Pain Points
AI tackles critical challenges faced by print service providers:
- Skill & Staff Shortages: Automating repetitive tasks reduces reliance on manual labor.
- Price Pressure: Optimized resource use lowers operational costs.
- Inconsistent Quality: Self-calibrating color management ensures consistency.
- Sustainability Mandates: AI converts sensor data into ESG metrics, simplifying compliance.
The Future of AI in Print
Looking ahead, Keypoint envisions:
- Real-Time Environmental Dashboards: Sustainability metrics will shift from quarterly reports to live feeds.
- Orchestrated Workflows: AI will simulate “what-if” scenarios before printing begins, optimizing outcomes.
- Generative AI Marketing: AI will create tailored marketing collateral faster than traditional methods.
The Bigger Picture: Smart Factories
The future of print lies in the convergence of AI and IoT. Smart factories are no longer theoretical; they are being built with AI integration at their core. Print providers who embrace AI today will lead the industry tomorrow.
Conclusion
Lisa Brown and Johnny Shell’s presentation underscored that AI is no longer a research project—it’s a production necessity. By leveraging the intelligence behind the ink, print providers can achieve greater efficiency, quality, and sustainability while staying ahead in a competitive market.
To explore the transformative potential of AI in print, sign up for Keypoint Intelligence’s on-demand webinar for an in-depth look at how AI is revolutionizing the industry.
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