The selection of dot shape (circular, elliptical, or square) fundamentally changes the halftone screen structure and is a sophisticated decision that impacts color appearance. Elliptical dots, for instance, are often preferred because they create a smoother transition in mid-tone areas, reducing the risk of harsh edges compared to circular or square dots. This choice should be driven by the client's aesthetic requirements and the print material's capability, rather than outdated printing habits.

Complexity in setting the Screen angle or selecting specialized dot shapes directly leads to longer file processing times by the RIP software and higher costs for plate creation. This complexity is only justified when aiming for a unique visual effect or resolving a specific technical printing challenge, demonstrating true expertise in screening. The prepress team must be acutely aware of this cost-benefit trade-off to avoid unnecessary production expenses while guaranteeing color consistency across the entire packaging run.