Definition: Putting ink on paper or other materials using a printing press or similar device is a basic definition of printing. In terms of desktop publishing, printing takes two primary forms: desktop printing and commercial printing.
With desktop printing, a digital file is sent to a printer connected to a computer (or its network) and the printed page is available in a short while.
In commercial printing, a printing company prints a file using one of a variety of methods, often involving a printing press. The printing method to be used affects how the digital file must be prepared. Commercial printing methods usually require very specific file preparation or prepress tasks.
Examples: "Desktop printing methods include dot matrix, dye sublimation, inkjet, laser, and thermal wax. Commercial printing processes can include all the previous methods as well as lithography, intaglio, engraving, flexography, gravure, thermography, and more. Some printing methods are better than others for vivid color, printing on non-paper materials, or creating special visual effects."
