1. Graphics chain

The graphic chain is a process (series of steps) that leads to the creation of a printed product, from the development of the graphic concept, the production of the originals (texts and images), the production of the printing forms, through to the print run on a press (conventional or digital).

There are four stages:

• the mock-up (to validate the project), followed by file preparation and graphic data processing to obtain the printed forms;

• the contract proof (to validate an item as close as possible to the printed product);

• from the press to the finished printed product;

• the "Bon à Tirer" (to validate the product printed on the press).

Different professionals are involved at each...