Priority Group Timeline
Major events, changes and technological advances in printing, binding, large format printing and mailing since the Priority Group was founded in 1980:
1980’s
Laser and Inkjet Printing: The shift to these newer printers enabled faster turnaround times and shorter print runs while still maintaining a high level of quality.
Advancements in Image Editing Software: Prepress work became more flexible with the advent of programs such as Aldus PageMaker, QuarkXPress, Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, which allowed for sophisticated image manipulation and vector graphic creation.
Computerized Mailing List Management: As marketers moved away from manual record-keeping and towards computerized databases, marketers could more precisely segment audiences and target campaigns.
Automated Mail Processing and Sorting: High-speed inserters, automated addressing systems, and barcode scanning have streamlined mail sorting and distribution, reducing manual errors and speeding up delivery.
First Class Postage rate in 1980 – $.15
1990’s
Automated Registration and Press Controls: Modern offset presses featured computerized control systems and automated alignment mechanisms to ensure higher precision in color registration and reduce manual setup time.
Digital Printing: With the invention of the Indigo Color Printing press in 1994, digital printing as a whole began gaining significant traction.
Computer-to-Plate (CTP) Systems: CTP technology replaced the traditional film-based method for creating offset plates, reducing errors and turnaround times by directly imaging the plate from a digital file.
Improved Ink Formulations: Development of water-based, low-VOC, and faster-drying inks improved print quality while also driving more environmentally-friendly processes.
Advances in Finishing Technology: Upgrades in finishing equipment increased production speeds and quality, allowing for more complex and higher-value print pieces.
Color Management Software: RIP (Raster Image Processing) software advancements improved color accuracy and workflow efficiency.
2000’s
Standardization of File Formats and Digital Workflows: The adoption of standardized file formats (like PDF/X) and integrated digital workflows streamlined communication between designers, prepress technicians, and printers.
Hybrid Integration with Digital Processes: Systems that combine offset and digital printing features offered flexibility for short-run, variable-data, and highly customized print jobs.
Variable Data Printing (VDP): Digital presses enabled marketers to mass-customize, tailoring each printed piece with unique text, images, or codes to target individual consumers more effectively.
Preflighting and Proofing Software: Automated preflight tools helped identify issues such as low-resolution images, missing fonts, and color inconsistencies early in the process, reducing costly reprints and delays.
Automation and Workflow Software: Automation software reduced errors, saved time, and lowered costs by automating various stages of the production process.
Higher Large Format Resolution and Faster Print Speeds: Enhanced inkjet technology led to resolutions exceeding 1200 dpi.
Solvent and Eco-Solvent Large Format Inks: New large format formulas provided durable, outdoor-friendly prints on non-porous materials.
Web-to-Print Solutions: Digital platforms enabled customers to design, order, and manage print jobs online, creating more flexible and efficient customer interfaces and expanding market reach.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Innovations: More companies focused on environmentally friendly practices such as waterless printing, use of eco-friendly inks, and improved waste management to meet both regulatory standards and consumer demand for sustainability.
Integration with Data Analytics and CRM Systems: Advanced analytics and customer relationship management tools allowed marketers to refine audience targeting, track responses, and optimize campaigns in real time.
2010’s
Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Solutions: Advances in equipment design reduced energy consumption and waste with more efficient adhesives and greener operating technologies.
Cloud-Based Collaboration and Remote Prepress Services: Cloud-based platforms enabled real-time collaboration between remote teams, making it easier to share, review, and approve prepress files across different locations.
Advances in Variable Data and Personalization Technologies: Prepress solutions now support variable data printing (VDP), allowing for the creation of highly personalized printed materials by dynamically integrating customized content into each print run.
Emergence of 3D Printing: 3D printing evolved from prototyping in the 1980s to a viable production method in the 2000s, impacting markets such as packaging prototypes, industrial parts, and custom merchandise.
Advanced Color Management Systems: Integration of digital color profiling and inline inspection tools has enhanced consistency and accuracy in color reproduction across large print runs.
Increased Speed and Efficiency: Innovations in press mechanics and digital controls led to significant increases in printing speed and overall production efficiency while maintaining quality standards.
Hybrid Large Format Printers (Flatbed + Roll-to-Roll): These versatile machines are capable of handling both rigid and flexible media.
2020’s
Hybrid Marketing Solutions: The incorporation of QR codes, personalized URLs (PURLs), and integration with digital channels (such as email and social media) has bridged the gap between physical and digital marketing for more cohesive campaigns.
Real-Time Mail Tracking and Response Measurement: New tracking technology, including unique identifiers and integrated response mechanisms, allow marketers to monitor campaign performance and measure ROI with greater accuracy.
Digital Workflow Integration: Today’s bindery systems are computer-controlled and integrated with digital prepress workflows, enabling real-time adjustments, job tracking, and improved overall production management.
Online Direct Mail Platforms: Cloud-based platforms and user-friendly online tools have simplified the process of designing, ordering, and managing direct mail campaigns, making them accessible to businesses of all sizes.
High-Speed LED UV Printing: Enhanced efficiency with instant curing and better adhesion in Large Format printing.
First Class Postage rate in 2025 – $.73
Priority Group is an integrated brand delivery platform helping companies grow their brands in channels people see, touch, feel and experience.
Contact us to learn more about the unique value we deliver and let’s get building, today!