- The future of AI in print means faster and more efficient pre-production processes
- AI can produce hyperpersonalized print using large sets of customer data
- AI in print can help extend the lifespan of equipment by proactive maintenance
- AI in print means more precise, detailed quality control
It would be a stretch to say that AI is revolutionizing the commercial print space. Rather than upending what’s been proven to work, this new technology will enhance and accelerate print processes — and the customer experience by extension — in ways that many of us print industry veterans have wanted for some time.
Embracing AI stands to help brands create more targeted, cost-effective, and efficient print marketing materials. Here are a couple of ways that I believe AI will impact the future of commercial print, and how Quantum’s approach to AI positions us for a bright future as a trusted print partner.
AI means a faster and more efficient pre-production process
Increasing the quality and speed of everyday tasks is one area where AI has proven to be extremely valuable. Pre-production checks are a treasure trove of time-consuming everyday tasks that AI can not only expedite but enhance to ensure jobs are executed at the highest possible quality.
For example, AI-powered print platforms can quickly and thoroughly analyze and optimize files to ensure error-free print. Preflight checks can be completed rapidly and with a higher degree of accuracy to reduce the likelihood of production bottlenecks or print errors.
This increased efficiency and productivity helps printers complete more jobs faster and easier —
for customers, this means reduced lead times in getting print materials and an elevated peace of mind that those materials will look and feel the way they intended. This time and cost savings can help optimize the ROI of direct mail, and it also helps brands in the banking and finance industry maximize their investment in print.
AI produces hyperpersonalized print
Variable data printing (VDP) is nothing new, and we all know that personalized print materials connect better with target audiences and increase key metrics like response rates or conversions. While a print automation solution makes personalization easier, AI simplifies the process and makes VDP capability even more targeted, creating hyperpersonalized print materials.
AI’s ability to evaluate mountains of customer data and transform that data into personalized messaging, imagery, and offers provides a critical leg-up on creating a stronger connection with a target audience.
Hyperpersonalization through AI in print goes beyond the FIRST NAME, LAST NAME standard to include content that uses customer purchase history, preferences, milestones, location, and more to create truly custom materials that build a sense of loyalty and trust with a brand.
AI simplifies job scheduling and equipment maintenance
Job scheduling and equipment maintenance go hand-in-hand — the ability to schedule and execute jobs on-time means print equipment needs to operate at peak efficiency without the risk of breakdown or disruption. AI has the ability to help simplify and streamline the process of scheduling jobs in fast-paced, high-output environments while also monitoring or alerting production teams to issues with press performance.
With an AI-enabled print platform, jobs can be more efficiently and accurately assigned to specific presses based on a variety of factors, including:
- Print capacity
- Compatibility with job requirements — think type of paper, ink, finishings, or other design specifications
- Current workload of a specific press or even an entire fleet
AI helps optimize the productivity of an entire print fleet, reducing or even eliminating the guesswork of pairing the right job with the right press. AI-powered workflows can rapidly analyze previous jobs and intuitively assign a job to the appropriate press in the blink of an eye.
From a maintenance perspective, AI can use past performance data to identify patterns and more accurately prescribe routine maintenance. Real-time alerts and notifications allow for a more proactive maintenance approach, reducing wear and tear and ensuring optimal performance to help extend the service life of printing equipment.
AI takes print quality control to the next level
Print marketing materials have to look good — simple, I know, but it’s hard to imagine seeing ROI on a brochure or mailer that has print defects, color inconsistencies, or inaccurate personalization. AI can help prevent these kinds of quality control concerns via real-time detection and correction capabilities.
The ability to catch QC issues like color management and address them in real time reduces costly reprints and waste, increasing the sustainability of print materials. AI-powered QCing is also beneficial to brands that use very precise or unique colors.
The future of AI in commercial print will center on optimizing print efficiency and costs. Smarter job scheduling, proactive equipment maintenance, and targeted, hyperpersonalized print will all play a part in what’s on the horizon for the next generation of print marketing.
At Quantum, we have on-premise AI technologies which can provide tangible benefit to customers via increased success of print marketing campaigns, reduced time to market and lower costs, all while keeping customer data secure.
With decades of experience as a technology leader in commercial print, we’re the ideal partner to help you create print marketing materials that generate revenue and help you grow your business. Contact us today to get started!
