Abstract: A method and system for automating lithographic and non-lithographic production process estimates and production specifications is described. A production calculator is coupled with a database management system. The production calculator contains a graphic user interface (GUI) generator, a function that logically selects a printing machine sheet size, a group of functions that calculate a number of printing impressions, a printing machine selection function, a group of functions that calculate pre-press production variables as they applies to a selected printing machine, a function that estimates ink usage, a function that calculates paper cutting, a function that calculates paper folding, and a function that saves estimate and production information to a database.