Implementing Print Quality Management (PQM): A Step-by-Step Guide for Brands
In the March 18 post, we introduced Print Quality Management (PQM) as a brand-owned system to ensure consistent color and quality across any printer or supplier. No more finger-pointing between vendors—PQM puts the brand in control with clear standards, accountability, and ongoing monitoring.
Many brands start strong with one certified printer, but problems arise when expanding to multiple suppliers, new regions, or different substrates. PQM solves this by creating a repeatable, measurable framework that works regardless of who prints the job.
Here is a practical step-by-step guide to implementing PQM for brands and agencies.
1. Define Your Brand Color & Quality Standards (1–2 weeks)
Start with a single source of truth.
Create a digital color library — Use PantoneLIVE, custom spectral libraries, or similar to define every brand color with full reflectance curves (not just Lab values under one light). This prevents metamerism and substrate shifts.
Set tolerances — Specify Delta E (e.g., ≤2.0 for most colors), density targets, dot gain limits, gray balance, and trapping minimums. Include lighting conditions (D50 press, D65 retail, LED store).
Document requirements — Build a PQM playbook: color specs, approved substrates, proof types (contract proofs), verification methods, and acceptable variation.
Involve stakeholders — Get buy-in from marketing, packaging design, procurement, and legal (for supplier contracts).
2. Select & Qualify Suppliers (2–4 weeks)
Not all printers are equal—vet them against your standards.
Require certifications — Mandate GMI, G7, or BrandQ certification for core suppliers.
Request fingerprint data — Ask for press profiles (ICC profiles, substrate-specific curves) and recent verification prints.
Run pilot tests — Send the same test form (IT8/7-4 or custom target with your brand colors) to 3–5 potential printers. Measure results against your tolerances.
Score & tier suppliers — Categorize them (e.g., Platinum: full PQM compliance; Gold: close but needs tweaks). Use this to guide job allocation.
3. Set Up Ongoing Monitoring & Reporting (Ongoing)
PQM is not set-it-and-forget-it—build feedback loops.
Require monthly verification prints — Suppliers submit scanned results from a simplified control target (density, dot gain, gray balance, brand spots).
Use centralized reporting — Brands collect data in a dashboard (e.g., via ColorCert, custom spreadsheet, or third-party tool). Track trends and flag drift early.
Conduct random audits — Pull shelf samples or request surprise proofs to verify real-world performance.
Review quarterly — Meet with suppliers to discuss scores, corrective actions, and improvements. Reward high performers with more volume.
4. Integrate PQM into Contracts & Workflows (Ongoing)
Make compliance contractual and seamless.
Update supplier agreements — Include PQM specs, reporting requirements, penalties for non-compliance, and incentives for high scores.
Train your team — Educate designers, pre-press, and procurement on PQM rules so files are built correctly from the start.
Automate proofing — Use soft-proofing tools calibrated to your standards for faster approvals and fewer rounds.
Partner with experts — Work with consultants like Mann & Co. to audit suppliers, create specs, and train teams on both brand and printer sides.
Real-World Results
A consumer goods brand we helped implement PQM reduced color-related rejections by 65% across 12 suppliers, cut proof cycles from 4–6 to 1–2, and improved shelf consistency scores from 78% to 94%. The system paid for itself in under a year through fewer reprints and stronger brand trust.
Bottom Line
PQM shifts color control from reactive firefighting to proactive brand ownership. By setting clear standards, qualifying suppliers, monitoring continuously, and enforcing through contracts, brands can achieve consistent, shelf-ready results no matter who prints the job.
For Printers: If you’re GMI or G7 certified and want to become a preferred supplier for brands using PQM, focus on fingerprinting your presses and maintaining strong continuity scores. Brands are actively looking for reliable partners who can deliver consistency.
For Brands: Ready to take control of your color consistency across suppliers? Mann & Co. provides expert brand-side consulting to develop your PQM playbook, audit printers, set measurable standards, and build stronger supplier relationships.
Use the contact form or call (941) 259-2100 to get started.