Offset printing is the granddaddy of the printing biz — old-school, time-tested, and true. But with the addition of digital capabilities (direct-to-plate technology, for instance), offset printing today is more like a hip granddad (as opposed to the old fogey kind).

This method is best for medium to large print runs like catalogs, brochures, magazines and other communications that rely on true-to-image, spot-on color.

A relative newbie in the business, digital printing is quicker, cheaper and not nearly as high maintenance as offset printing. Of course, it has its drawbacks — for instance, it's not a real cost-effective option for large print runs or designed pieces with large solids or gradients — but if you've got a short-run poster, postcard or flier designed for one-four color process, you can't do better than digital printing.