Toner Versus Inkjet: The In-plant Decision

摘要

Whether in-plant operations have made the jump from toner-based systems to inkjet, plan to do so, or are considering doing so, one thing is clear: in-plant managers hold strong perceptions about inkjet's ability to fulfill their operations' needs, and also have concerns about both stock limitations and print quality.Amid recent developments in inkjet technology, some of these perceptions may be outmoded. One correct assumption, however, is that inkjet is fast - in some cases, too fast to justify the cost of an inkjet press as compared to needed volumes.All of the in-plant managers interviewed for this article have attended the Inkjet Summit, where they received detailed, compelling information about inkjet technology, including its array of platforms, capabilities, and flexibility. Emerging from these events, however, these managers elected to continue their reliance on toner-based systems. In some cases, their resistance to inkjet is quality-focused; they feel it is not the right tool for the job. In others, it isn't resistance so much as patience. They're waiting for the right time, based on capabilities or budget.