Where color management is now largely automated and standardized for the traditional 4-color printing processes, the demand for printing with Extended Color Gamut (or ECG) is steadily increasing. ECG achieves a vibrant print result and can replace the need for spot colors. 

The only downside: The complexity in color management and color separation is also increasing. The results from the first Multicolor Forum in 2018 demonstrated this. Fogra’s Multicolor Forum examined the latest ECG tools and challenged the participants once again.

Where in 2018 the focus was on characterization, proofing and separation, the Multicolor Forum 2019 focused on more practical tasks. An example: the simulation of overprinting in a multi-color process using CMYK and additional spot colors. Each participant was given the task of going through seven production scenarios. Two test forms and print sheets were used to evaluate results.

GMG solved the tasks using the current versions of GMG OpenColor, GMG ColorServer, GMG ColorProof and GMG ColorPlugin. GMG’s patented spectral color transformation technology demonstrated its strengths. When simulating overprinting for specific printing conditions, GMG showed excellent performance and delivered accurate results, precisely predicting the results of over- and under printing. The results from the tests showed the accuracy of the calculated profiles. GMG proved that the qualitative advantages of its technology also apply to the ECG printing process.

With the Multicolor Forums, Fogra offers an overview of the current ECG products available on the market and provides a detailed study of these tools. Multi-color printing clearly presents many opportunities, especially for the packaging industry. Due to the growing popularity of fixed color sets and the increased use of digital printing presses, reliable ECG color management technology is crucial to maximizing efficiencies and guaranteeing accurate results in the implementation of such print jobs.

In practice, the challenges in the preparation of print data in an ECG process are as diverse as they are complex. Therefore, a portfolio of flexible and smart tools is required. The holistic approach of GMG is not only convincing for specific tasks – with the solutions of the color management experts, users are always equipped to manage these challenges. Instead of a range of standalone products, GMG provides a complete system of tools that work with each other and integrate into existing workflows.

Overall, the results of the Multicolor Forum 2019 show strong developments compared to the previous year. With serious investments currently being made to develop new technologies for multi-color printing by the manufacturers, users can benefit from increased quality, improved color consistency and more reliability. The ECG trend looks to continue for years to come, offering opportunities for both users and manufacturers alike.