G7 is a proof-to-print process control method that allows printers to match the visual appearance of the output reliably and efficiently from multiple printing devices, regardless of the type of ink or printing method. The widely used process helps printers to achieve repeatable, consistent control of tone reproduction and ensures that process colours are neutral and balanced, improving grey balance, and stabilising colour.

Nazdar's recent G7 Idealliance qualification for KDM P.O.P. Solutions Group in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, is an achievement for the industry as it marks the first time anyone has completed a shop-wide qualification that includes screen printing, with no dedicated press runs. Using the latest industry tools and software, the customer attained qualification without pausing planned production work.

Previously, G7 qualifications required dedicated press runs to create calibrations, followed by verification runs. This meant press runs could run as high as $500 per hour and require multiple iterations of press time, which in turn drove up significant opportunity cost.

However, Nazdar says this method of G7 Idealliance qualification means that its customers will no longer have to commit time and funds to this process.

Tim Quinn, a Nazdar consultant and G7 expert, together with Doug Pulvere, quality control manager of KDM P.O.P. Solutions Group oversaw the qualification process.

For the qualification, measurements were taken using the new X-Rite Color i1Pro3 profiling and calibration solution, and then analysed using the ChromaChecker colour verification tool.

The entire G7 process was completed using only live production work in all print processes for offset lithography, screen printing and grand-format inkjet printing.

Nazdar says this significant achievement means that the cost of G7 qualification has now been drastically reduced, as no dedicated material or time was used, benefitting customers both in immediate cost-savings and long-term colour consistency.