CUNNINGHAM GRAPHICS INT'L -- A Digital Prospectus

The distribute-then-print workflow also is enabled by digital production, Hood points out. "The concept hasn't taken off like the industry hoped, but it has worked for us in some instances," he says.

CGI made a big move into this arena at the end of 1999 by acquiring the five digital printing centers of The McGraw-Hill Construction Information Group. The sites are strategically located across the country, in major metropolitan markets. According to Hood, these centers simultaneously print time-sensitive construction bid information that is customized for specific regions and dropped in the mail for delivery the next day. Using distribute-then-print production helps ensure all recipients are on an equal footing to take advantage of this information, he adds.