Digital BW, The Print

Is this step wedge on file specifically for use with the VM inkset or 
can it be referenced for the creation of transfer functions in 
general. Also, I notice that Jerry Nevins suggests having an online 
service create a print-out of a step wedge in order to create 
transfer functions. Is this step necessary? Nicholas Hartmann's 
workflow (in Group Files) for creating a transfer function makes no 
mention of using a third-party print-out. I'd prefer to skip the 
step, keeping the feedback loop between my monitor and printer, but 
I'm not sure if that's the best way to proceed.
Any suggestions are appreciated.

Chris Hargens