AI in the Printing Industry - Empowering You to Work ON Your Business, Not Just IN It

In one of my recent articles, I highlighted two trends transforming the printing industry. First, the convergence of print markets, driven by technological advances that blur the lines between commercial, packaging, wide format, label, and textile printing. The second trend is the rise of automation, powered by artificial intelligence (AI).

Today, I want to focus on the connection between automation and AI—and offer a word of caution. Don’t be misled by the hype around AI as a “holy grail” that will instantly solve all your business challenges. While AI offers incredible opportunities, it comes with two key truths:

1. AI is already here—if you’re not using it, you’re already behind.
2. AI is only as good as your input—poor inputs lead to poor results. Without clear, specific directives, AI won’t deliver meaningful value.

How AI is Driving Automation: Equipment & Workflow

AI is pushing automation in two key areas: equipment and workflow.

1. Equipment Automation

AI-driven machine learning has made huge strides in optimizing printing presses, finishing equipment, and more. Two key innovations stand out:

• Job Memory and Optimization: Presses now “remember” job types and adjust settings automatically when receiving files. They can even sequence print jobs based on file composition, maximizing press efficiency. Major litho players like Heidelberg Offset Machines , Komori , Koenig & Bauer , and Manroland Sheetfed are leading the way with AI-powered press operations.
• Performance Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance: Equipment can now track itself, alerting operators when maintenance is required—long before a breakdown occurs. This proactive approach maximizes uptime. Manufacturers like Durst Group AG , HP , Fujifilm Print US , Agfa , EFI , swissQprint and Canon Production Printing are already advanced in leveraging AI to track and optimize the performance of digital presses.

2. Workflow Automation

AI has also significantly advanced workflow automation, streamlining everything from sales and production to procurement, inventory management, and finance. Web-to-print systems have naturally integrated into these workflows, while color management has become seamlessly embedded in the process. Companies like Accura-MIS , printIQ , Gelato and most OEMs offer workflow automation solutions. This kind of automation is now the backbone of efficient operations, giving businesses more agility and scalability.

Final Thoughts: Act Now, Don’t Wait for AI

AI isn’t something on the horizon—it’s here and it’s evolving rapidly. Integrating automation at both the equipment and workflow levels can free up your time to work on your business, not just in it. The key is to use AI strategically, ensuring that your inputs are clear and your systems are optimized.