Digital Ad Lab UK (DAL UK)

May 2009, Apple EBC

Sponsor update – Fuji

Gave us an insight into the XMF PDF Workflow, a copy of the presentation can be seen by clicking here.

Soft Proofing case studies

Mark Tamsett & Shanie Richardson from Bauer Media

They explained that soft proofing is part of a bigger story of workflow changes they are putting in place.  They have implemented a major soft proofing project for 55 magazines including outsourcing their repro, which has been a great success delivering significant cost savings.  Please click here for a copy of the presentation.

Mal Skelton from BBC Magazines

They have concentrated on 20 magazines produced in London.  They were using five + repro houses spending approximately £1.1 million and confirmed they could save ½ of this by bringing it in-house.  Introduced Smart Repro project with the help of Paul Sherfield, made an investment of £100K on kit but the biggest investment was with people including a repro manager and 9 technicians.

The printer still gets a hard copy proof to target but aiming to change this longer term.  They feel their market sector is not right for printing by numbers, but they want to eventually have a total soft proofing workflow.  They have made great strides in removing hard copy proofing for internal processes.  Next phase will be remote proofing between themselves and Polestar who they mainly work with.  Were hoping to move to full soft proofing with printer but the investment is too significant in the economic climate and ROI not proven.

The team also looking into ad delivery where files are sent electronically and uploaded by client for approval.  This will streamline processes and cut costs.  They are trying to change people’s attitudes towards supplying artwork and remove the element of chasing which takes up significant time and resources.  However, as with all these things they have to know it will save money and be a cost effective transition.

Publishing Solutions – Chris Bunnett
When looking into this area, Chris didn’t initially realise how enormous the area could be.  He therefore covered the basics of the subject and we will delve deeper at subsequent DAL meetings.  Please click here for a copy of Chris’s presentation.

Apple – delivering creative impact
Richard West delivered a very interesting presentation on how Apple solutions can help in all aspects of the creative workflow.  Unfortunately, we are unable to publish the presentation.

Apple has said they are happy to host some one-day seminars specifically for DAL members on areas such as Podcast Producer and Video/iPhone apps.  Please let me know if you are interested in attending such an event and what subject areas are of particular interest.  I will then liaise with Apple to set this up.

Sponsor Update - Kodak

Have launched the Kodak’s Graphic Community where members can browse the community, connect with each other, develop business relationships, and freely exchange content and information for commerce.  The team welcomes any feedback on plans.  To see the full presentation, please click here.

Any Other Business

• John Charnock updated the group on the Student Mentor project, which is going really well.  The fundraising event was a success and has raised sufficient money to get things off the ground, but much more is needed.  More information can be found at www.student-mentor.com, where interested mentors can also provide their details.
  
• We asked members if they felt we should continue membership of the Ghent WorkGroup at a cost of 1000 euros and it was agreed we should.