I guess you are looking to evaluate cost/service/performance of a plate
my advise is to get your printers to run extensive trails to check quality, compatibility with current CTP equipment
also ask these questions;
-Will the plate manufacture offer consignment, if not, then, this becomes a considerable additional cost to you
-Who will conduct the forecasting & ordering with the manufacture?
-How much stock will you hold in order not to run out? holding large amounts of buffer stock to cover "unknown" future events will place a large burden on cash flow.
-When there is a technical question that needs addressing quickly, will you be able to have a manufactures Representative come to the site within an hour as is the case at present ?
-Does the plate manufacture offer bulk skid packaging ? If no, then there will be considerably more cardboard waste to handle & dispose of. Has this cost been factored?
-Does the plate manufacture have the ability to make plates ( & Guarantee consistency of supply ) in the grain direction required by your presses. If not, expect plate cracking & press down time.
best of luck
