Overview
ISO/TS 15311-1:2020 - Graphic technology: Part 1 defines a standardized set of print quality metrics, measurement methods and a reporting schema for printed sheets used in commercial and industrial production. Intended primarily for digital printing but applicable to other print processes, the Technical Specification establishes how to measure and report attributes such as colour, tone reproduction, gloss, uniformity, detail rendition, permanence and artefacts. It also sets out sampling and single‑vs‑multi‑sheet assessment practices and requires consistent reporting (for example using CIEDE2000 for colour differences).
Key topics and requirements
- Print quality metrics: A comprehensive list of measurable attributes (colour deviation, colour variation, tone value, gloss, uniformity, perceived resolution, artefacts, permanence).
- Measurement methods: Defined procedures and referenced normative standards (e.g., ISO 13655 spectral measurement, ISO 12642‑2 input data conventions) to ensure repeatable, comparable results.
- Reporting schema: Mandatory conventions for how results are recorded and communicated (use of CIEDE2000 for ΔE reporting; indication of single‑sheet vs. multi‑sheet statistics; time‑stamped sampling information).
- Sampling and statistical reporting: Guidance on random sheet selection, number of sheets measured, and reporting of variation (mean and percentiles such as 95th).
- Printing conditions: Requirements to describe process parameters and aim values that define a printing condition (paper category, inks, screening, etc.).
- Updated measurement topics: Third‑edition additions include gamut analysis, perceived resolution, macroscopic uniformity, contouring and indoor light stability variants.
Applications
ISO/TS 15311-1:2020 is practical for:
- Print service providers establishing objective acceptance criteria and QC procedures.
- Manufacturers of digital presses and RIPs validating device performance and reporting capabilities.
- Brand owners and print buyers specifying measurable quality requirements in contracts.
- Color management and QC labs performing conformance testing, benchmarking and audit reporting.
- Proofing houses and prepress teams aligning aim values and reporting formats across production workflows.
Use cases include acceptance testing of print runs, supplier compliance checks, troubleshooting print defects (banding, contouring), and creating reproducible process documentation for colorimetric control.
Related standards
ISO/TS 15311‑1 references and complements other ISO standards used in graphic arts and imaging (e.g., ISO 13655, ISO 12642‑2, ISO image permanence standards). Subsequent parts of ISO/TS 15311 provide guidance on which metrics to apply and acceptable conformance criteria for specific product categories.
Keywords: ISO/TS 15311-1:2020, print quality metrics, measurement methods, reporting schema, digital printing, CIEDE2000, printing conditions, graphic technology.