The manufacturing industry is undergoing a massive transformation, integrating technologies like artificial intelligence, automation, and digitalisation to optimise production and boost efficiency. In print manufacturing, companies adapt to these changes by viewing AI as a tool for growth rather than a threat. In this article, John Kilburg from K12 Printing reacts to digital transformation that is led by artificial intelligence.
This article is published in line with the Digital Transformation and AI Awards and Summit. To exhibit at the event, please get in touch at +44 (0)203 931 5827.
The Impact of Digital Transformation on Print Manufacturing
This isn’t the first major shift in manufacturing. Like many other industries, print manufacturing experienced significant digital transformation with the introduction of computers and other digital technologies. Decades ago, manual processes dominated the industry, limiting efficiency and scope. The introduction of digital tools such as computer-aided design and automated printing presses revolutionised production. This shift allowed for faster workflows, improved precision, and greater customisation.
This earlier wave of digital transformation was a cause of discomfort for many in the manufacturing industry due to concern about the new technology replacing jobs. Instead, it reshaped roles without replacing them. It created opportunities for workers to upskill and move into more specialised roles such as graphic designers or other important roles within the print manufacturing industry. Today, many print manufacturers see AI as a continuation of this evolution, offering new ways to enhance their business and empower their workforce.
AI’s Role in Print Manufacturing
While still early in print manufacturing, AI is poised to bring substantial benefits in certain areas. At K12 Print, AI is being explored cautiously, with a focus on enhancing efficiency and creativity rather than reducing jobs.
Shortly, AI is likely to assist in design elements. This would enable designers to work faster and focus more on creativity and strategic decision-making. Another practical implementation is through machine maintenance, using predictive analytics to prevent breakdowns and optimise performance, minimising downtime.
Rather than letting technology drive layoffs, companies should be committed to maintaining their workforce and creating opportunities for career advancement. This approach keeps jobs in the country and the community and strengthens the company’s foundation as a tight-knit group that values each employee’s growth.
Enhancing Print Quality
There are many practical uses of artificial intelligence in print manufacturing. First, AI can be used to analyse and optimise images that are received from the customer. Most customers are not knowledgeable about print files or colour builds. Artificial intelligence can sharpen images and adjust colour in real time. The result of these corrections is high-quality prints in a shorter amount of time which saves money. Also, AI may come into the design elements of print when customers bring forward ideas for us to create. Several nuances go into making their idea a reality and although there are currently real people building off those ideas.
AI and Sustainability
The manufacturing industry is constantly evolving when it comes to sustainability. Many of the printing tools have become more environmentally friendly over the years especially when it comes to ink and other critical elements in printing. But more changes on the horizon can make printing more sustainable. The use of AI systems can help reduce waste and save on energy consumption. This can help lessen the environmental impact of the printing industry. Additionally, artificial intelligence can use its vast database (learned knowledge) to suggest other areas where printing can transition to eco-friendly materials. A practical implementation of AI could also be in predictive maintenance—monitoring the machines in use and predicting breakdowns so they can be avoided.
AI and Cost
AI may be cost-prohibitive to smaller print manufacturing companies in the short term. However, as history teaches us, technology tends to become affordable very quickly once it is embraced by the masses. The more we learn to embrace AI rather than fear AI, the faster it will become a tool that propels us forward.
Security
Every data-driven industry must think about security. And print manufacturing is no different. Another practical implementation of AI in manufacturing is within the company’s security setup. AI can identify patterns in data traffic that can be indicative of a security breach and suggest, or even implement measures to counter the breach. It can also work to prevent security breaches by enforcing user authentication and even monitoring the printing of sensitive or confidential materials.
Print Personalisation
Although a vast majority of the print orders that come through the shop are custom orders there is still a major market for pre-made ready-to-order looks. AI systems can use available data about customers to customise content based on that data. This can be used in marketing campaigns to create high-response materials targeted to specific audiences. Packaging and direct mail will be big beneficiaries of this.
AI Won’t Replace Jobs – It Will Create New Opportunities
A common concern in the workplace is that AI will lead to job loss. However, this fear may be overstated. Much like the earlier digital transformation, AI presents an opportunity to elevate both workers and businesses. K12 Print is committed to investing in education and on-the-job training for employees, preparing them to adapt and thrive in a more technology-driven workplace. Upskilling the workforce will ensure that workers move into more rewarding roles.
AI will likely take over repetitive tasks, but this shift will allow employees to focus on oversight roles. For print manufacturing, this means workers can explore new career paths in roles such as AI technicians, data analysts, and advanced machine operators. Digital transformation in manufacturing is inevitable, and AI will play a crucial role in shaping the future.
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