GCMI Color Guide Variance

James asks:

We have learned of a color variance or discrepancy between some editions of the GCMI color guide. We’ve discovered that the blues colors in Edition X are different than the blues in Edition XI. The blues in XI do match the colors in Edition IX.

If a customer places an order expecting a Blue 34 from Edition X and we, as boxmakers, are using Edition XI it will look very different.

Is this color inconsistency something that users of GCMI guides are aware of? Do you know if other companies have had similar issues and how they may be handling it?

I’m not sure if the industry is widely aware of this issue. I don’t recall discussing it with anyone prior to your inquiry. It’s certainly something we should take note of. It’s obvious how this can cause a conflict between the customer and a boxmaker. In essence neither party is right and neither party is wrong. So, who’s going to pay for the reprint?

So, maybe accountability starts with Sales. When the taking or estimating the order, perhaps we want to verify the edition and age of the color guide that is being used. Maybe there should also be a signature or initial block on a print card that explains the potential difference between the two editions. Also, note which edition is being used to select the color.

If possible, have the customer select/verify the color using your color guide because that is what your pressmen will be working from.

Whenever possible, get drawdowns on the actual substrate that is going to be used and have your customer signoff on the sample. The same ink can produce significantly different colors depending on the supplier mill and even paper machine. Changes in the species of source material can also have a significant impact on color reproduction.

The best way to protect yourself is to document and verify throughout the process. Collect customer signatures on all critical aspects of the job.

The most recent GCMI color guides can be purchased from this website. https://www.gpi.org/color-guides

— Ralph