GATF Releases Annual Technology Forecast

PITTSBURGH—The Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF) has released its "2003 Technology Forecast."

One of GATF's most popular publications, the annual "Technology Forecast" helps readers identify trends that will affect specific business segments in the next five or 10 years. Its 65 articles, by various industry experts, touch upon almost every printing process and clarify how and why markets are moving.

Among its findings: the average firm offering wide-format ink-jet services is billing around $4 million per year. Digital proofing is growing fast with many interesting developments in soft proofing. Growth in specialty printing, packaging of all types and flexography is also reported. The forecast also includes discussions on web press job runs, PDF-X1 and e-commerce adoption rates.

Divided into three sections, the first section examines the industry on a macro level. In this section, experts at PIA, NPES and other organizations contribute articles on economic trends. The wide-ranging coverage of printing markets alerts readers to what is on the horizon in large format, digital, quick, catalog, book, labels, and packaging printing markets, as well as trends in advertising and marketing. Status reports on e-commerce and international markets (Canada, Latin America and Europe) are also included.

The second section, the print production process, updates readers on more specific issues. The section includes a dozen articles on prepress operations and digital issues; nine articles on print and press processes; three on postpress functions; and four on supplies and materials.

The last section, supporting the process, covers education and training, standards and specifications, and environmental issues.

The 2003 forecast is available for $199 ($99 for GATF/PIA members), plus shipping. Orders may be placed by contacting GATF at (800) 662-3916 or online from the GAIN Bookstore.