Chromaticity Inc. introduced its Web-based color help desk, The Color Source @ chroma-tech.com.

The Color Source has been online since Oct. 1, and several users have signed up and are using the Web site.

The Color Source is designed as a resource for daily process-related challenges faced by industry professionals. Members are able to work with a certified Chromaticity consultant to resolve process related color issues unique to their workflows.

The Color Source is for any person who is involved in color reproduction, which include technicians, quality personnel and management. Markets who may use the system include commercial printing, newspapers, web offset, packaging, prepress photography, quick print, etc.

The help desk is accessed by a toll free phone number or through the Color Source Web site, www.chroma-tech.com. Users who sign up for the service receive a user name and password, which allows them to log a request or search The Color Source database.

Chromaticity signed with three corporate sponsors, X-Rite Inc., Bestcolor USA Inc. and Graphic Systems Inc., which are involved in the promotion and distribution of the new help desk.

“The fact that this new service was developed in response to customer and partner requests will ensure its rapid success,” said Peder Nelson, president of Chromaticity. “This is a truly unique service that has been needed for quite some time.”

Requests are answered in the order received and will be addressed within four hours. A Chromaticity consultant will contact members by phone and begin the process of problem resolution.

The database is dynamic with Chromaticity consultants inputting information into it as they solve member problems. They have a content manager who reviews all content and markets it public or private information.

Currently the database has information on the following categories, color management, color measurement, digital photography, flexography, graphic applications, ink jet monitors and displays, offset lithography, PDF, raster image processors, scanning and test targets.

“The decision was partially based on industry feedback. Our business model involves taking intellectual assets that we acquire by providing services in the field and repurposing them as new products,” Nelson explained. “In this case, not everyone can afford to have consultants on-site to solve color reproduction issues. This service is a way for Chromaticity to provide our expertise and experience to a much broader audience at a very affordable price.”

Chromaticity has specialized in color technologies for the printing and publishing industry since 1997.