Digital printing refers to methods of
printing from a
digital based image directly to a variety of media.
[1] It usually refers to professional printing where small run jobs from
desktop publishing and other digital sources are printed using large format and/or high volume
laser or
inkjet printers. Digital printing has a higher cost per page than more traditional
offset printing methods but this price is usually offset by the cost saving in avoiding all the technical steps in between needed to make printing plates. It also allows for on demand printing, short turn around, and even a modification of the image (variable data) with each impression.
[2] The savings in labor and ever increasing capability of digital presses means digital printing is reaching a point where it will match or supersede offset printing technologies ability to produce larger print runs at a low price.