Technology keeps us nimble and precise and helps us deliver consistent quality. With leading-edge technology systems and software, we’re built to respond with lightning speed to a broad range of projects and programs — from digitally controlled pre-press to complete in-line capabilities, direct-to-plate technology, digital conversion of electronic files, to automated bindery and finishing, Specialty is fully equipped to be your direct mail partner.
Some of our technology best practices include:
FTP Site — We have an extraordinarily secure FTP site with a dedicated T1 line, which is password protected and hacker safe. Since we manage the FTP site ourselves, files are behind the SPC firewall which not only enhances security but also makes the files more accessible.
Data Management — Specialty knows that data management can make or break even the best direct mail execution. We help you avoid sending out duplicates and mailing to the wrong person — a person who either cannot or will not respond. We use the best software for list management, presorting, and variable data printing.
- BCC Software delivers optimized postal presorting, integrated address correction, NCOA support and includes MailManager 2010 for accurate list and record maintenance
- GMC PrintNet Suite of software for state-of-the-art variable page composition on Web presses
- Fusion Pro Desktop for variable composition on digital presses
- Planet coding allows for tracking a direct mail piece as it flows through the mail system
Electronic Pre-Press — Digital prepress is the critical beginning of the production process — it makes the difference between a good run and a great run. Prepress refers to all the steps between the receipt of electronic files and the actual printing process. With the latest equipment, software, and a highly-trained and experienced staff, Specialty is able to continually provide our clients with the best services at the fastest turnarounds. Digital files are commonly processed and ready for production within a few hours of receipt, with automated, electronic checking at every step to insure quality.
Computer-to-Plate
- Apple Macintosh G5 workstations
- Creo/Kodak Prinergy workflow DTP system
- Creo/Kodak Trendsetter CTP system
- Flatbed scanning
Proofing
- Creo/Kodak Spectrum dot proofer/Kodak Matchprint
- Epson 9800 — Oris color-tuned high-resolution contract proofing system
- Epson 9600 (2) — Oris color-tuned low-resolution mechanical proofing system
Color Management — We are color fanatics. Just as you are. So, we have taken great pains to ensure that every color is true with a system of crosschecks using the latest equipment and software to ensure integrity at every point in the process.
- X-rite densitometers and spectrophotometers
- EIZO ColorEdge® CG21 color monitor that color matches to industry standard
- Gretag Macbeth software for monitor color calibration
- Three Epson ColorBurst® X-Proof Inkjet Printers create dotted proofs
- Quadtech Closed Loop Color Control
- CIP3™ System presets color on the press, so color is very close to begin with, saving a lot of time in makeready
- Creo/Kodak Trendsetter CTP System; Two plate makers so there’s never down time
Pressroom — Each of our web, sheetfed and digital presses feature advanced technologies that minimize makeready time and maximize quality. These include:
- Advanced auto plate on sheetfed presses allow plates to be hung all at once
- Semi-automatic plating on Sunday press allow for the loading of two plates that hang themselves
- Auto color, registration and presets on all presses
