Printing has been around for more than five centuries, but it has come under fire over the years. Other, more powerful information-reproducing technologies, such as television, radio, and film, have challenged the power of printed text. But it has remained a major force in human society, being used in textiles, packaging, and even miniature electronic circuitry. Here are three benefits of printing, and why it will always be a vital tool.
The process of printing involves the production of printed materials, which is typically carried out on large-scale industrial scales. The process is fundamental to paper-based publishing and transaction printing. Printing originated in China with Bi Sheng, and Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century. Today, printing is used for a wide range of applications, from posters on walls to stickers on computers. Among other things, printing reproduces photographs on photosensitive paper. Unlike digital photography, this process makes use of negative or positive image sources to create a copy of the image.
Traditionally, printing is defined as the application of colour under pressure to reproduce text and illustrations. However, modern processes do not rely on mechanical pressure or the concept of colouring agent. They represent an important development and may eventually replace the use of other processes. Regardless of the method used to reproduce an image or text, printing reproduces the desired number of identical copies. It is a highly versatile process that is essential for a wide range of printing purposes.