In traditional prints, a template has to be made. Back in the good ole days, the typesetter actually placed small plates (engraved with raised letters) to make the template. Digital printing uses a digital imaging process to transfer the image directly onto paper. Basically, it makes your computer a printing press and makes printing as easy and inexpensive as making a copy.

The best time to use digital printing is for small jobs or for when you want to print as you need it. Conventional print jobs require a set up fee that typically makes it too expensive for the smaller jobs. There is still a time and place for more conventional printing (books, newspapers, and other large print jobs), but even the big guys are using technology to make their jobs easier and cleaner.

Smaller companies are turning to digital printing because there is usually a much lower set up cost and there is no minimum volume run. It can be used on surfaces other than paper, such as film, cloth, or plastic. It is easier to make last-minute changes or corrections because the setup is all in the computer. Many companies are using digital printing to create brochures, business cards, labels and other as-needed printing jobs.

As the technology for small, home based printers continues to expand, it is likely that digital printing will become more popular. Already the print industry is feeling the pressure from the computer savvy consumer. Many are turning to online printing (allowing the consumer the ability to print digitally if she desires) to cut their costs. There may be a day when conventional printing is made completely obsolete by the ease and low cost of digital printing.

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