The Sowetan newspaper has acquired a little magic to help iron out those annoying yet seemingly unavoidable advertising glitches, courtesy of First Graphics.

The Sowetan recently acquired the BlackMagic News Extra software package from printing solutions provider First Graphics, and it is already making its magic felt in the newspaper's production and graphics department. At the same time, the Sowetan also acquired an Epson Stylus Pro 7000 large format printer for use with the proofing system to ensure consistent service quality.

IT manager Chand Jogi says, "The intention is to ensure that colour and design quality will comply 100% and error free with the client's specifications at the pre-press production stage." He adds, "We have already seen a reduction in the number of font, graphical, design and colour errors in our advertisements.

"The acquisition of the BlackMagic software and the Epson printer means that we can keep our promise to our customers to see that our quality of service is not compromised in any way."

BlackMagic News Extra, used in conjunction with the Epson 7000 printer, allows the production and graphic team to create hard copy proofs that match the press, allowing the newspaper to obtain sign-off from major advertisers prior to going to press without being concerned with the compensation pay-outs that are typically associated with poor match colour on press.

For more information contact First Graphics Digital Imaging, 011 799 3800.