Outcome 5.6 Digital Production Printing — Variable Data, Device Selection, Substrates, and 3D Output

Variable Data Printing (VDP)

A digital-print workflow where parts of a printed piece change from copy to copy while other parts remain the same.

Data Source

The database or spreadsheet that contains personalization data for VDP, such as names and addresses.

Design Template

A layout that includes fixed elements and placeholders for variable data fields in a VDP job.

Merge Fields

Placeholders in a design template that are replaced by data from the data source in a VDP job.

Raster Image Processor (RIP)

A technology that interprets the design, applies color management, and produces printable data from a VDP job.

Data Cleaning

The process of preparing the data source for VDP by ensuring consistency and accuracy in the database.

Text Frames

Design elements that allow text to wrap safely in VDP, accommodating variable content lengths.

Conditional Logic

A design feature that allows different content to be displayed based on variable data attributes in VDP.

Variable Images

Images in VDP that change based on the data source, allowing for personalized graphics.

Proofing

The process of checking both design and data accuracy before final printing in a VDP job.

Job Specifications

A detailed outline of what must be printed including quantity, size, and substrate in production printing.

Electrophotographic Press

A type of digital press that uses toner to print, known for fast turnaround and good consistency.

Production Inkjet

A digital printing method that uses inkjet technology for high-speed output, typically for larger volumes.

Wide-format Inkjet

A printing technology that accommodates large sizes and various materials, often used for signage.

Pagination vs Imposition

Pagination is the design order; imposition is the printing order on press sheets.

Bleed

Extra image area beyond the trim size to prevent white edges from slight cutting misalignments.

Trim Size

The final cut size of a printed piece after all finishing processes.

Rich Black

A black color produced by mixing multiple ink components (CMYK) to achieve deeper tones in large areas.

Geometric Complexity

The ability of a production process, particularly 3D printing, to create intricate shapes and internal structures.

Material Extrusion

A 3D printing technology that melts and extrudes plastic filament to create objects layer by layer.

Slicing

The process in 3D printing that converts a 3D model into a series of layers and paths for the printer.

Post-Processing

The steps taken after printing to finish the object, such as cleaning supports, sanding, or curing.

Anisotropic Strength

The variation in strength properties of a 3D printed part, which can be weaker in certain directions due to layer adhesion.

Prototyping

The process of creating a physical model of a design, often using 3D printing for rapid iteration.

Additive Manufacturing

A manufacturing process that builds objects layer by layer, commonly associated with 3D printing.

Digital Front End

The system that processes files for printing and manages print production workflows, especially for VDP.

Substrate Compatibility

The ability of a printing process to produce quality results on various types of paper or material.