Overview - SIST ISO 16760:2020 (Graphic technology, RGB workflows)
SIST ISO 16760:2020 defines requirements and guidelines for preparing and visualizing RGB images intended for RGB-based graphics arts workflows. The standard uses reflection prints (called RGB Reference Prints) as the evaluation vehicle and describes the creation of RGB Reference Images and simulation prints for print-targeted RGB work. It mandates the use and identification of a pair of ICC profiles for each image - one image profile and one profile describing the reference printing system - to enable colour transformations for gamut mapping and colour separation. The standard does not prescribe how to implement those gamut-mapping or colour-separation transforms.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Purpose: Establish a controlled RGB workflow for graphic arts prepress data exchange and image visualization.
- Evaluation vehicle: Use of reflection RGB Reference Prints for consistent visual assessment of colour images.
- RGB Reference Images: Guidelines for creating print-targeted RGB image files suitable for RGB-based printing workflows.
- ICC profile requirement: Each image must be associated with two ICC profiles:
- Image profile (characterizes the image color encoding)
- Reference printing system profile (describes the target printing system)
- Colour transformations: Profiles provide per-image gamut mapping and colour separation paths; the standard does not specify the algorithms or parameters for these transforms.
- Deliverables: Support for producing simulation prints and other visualization artifacts to validate how RGB images will appear when produced.
Practical applications and who uses SIST ISO 16760:2020
- Prepress and colour management specialists who prepare RGB content for print.
- Print service providers adopting RGB-based workflows to streamline prepress and proofing.
- Graphic designers and art directors needing predictable print simulation and evaluation.
- Software developers and RIP/DFE vendors implementing image handling, ICC profile management, and visualization tools.
- Equipment manufacturers producing proofing printers and display systems for RGB reference prints.
Practical uses include standardized file handover in prepress data exchange, creating print-targeted RGB images for predictable colour reproduction, and producing simulation prints for quality control and client approval.
Related standards (applicable)
- ICC profile specifications (ICC) - for colour profile structure and interchange.
- ISO 12647 series - process control for graphic technology (printing process standards).
- ISO 3664 - viewing conditions for graphic technology (visual assessment environments).
Keywords: SIST ISO 16760:2020, RGB workflow, prepress data exchange, RGB Reference Prints, RGB Reference Images, ICC profiles, gamut mapping, colour separation, graphic technology, simulation prints.